TH-15A

2-Way 15” Powered Loudspeaker

OWNER’S MANUAL
Important Safety Instructions
1. Read these instructions. 20. NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with
2. Keep these instructions. the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC
3. Heed all warnings. Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
4. Follow all instructions. against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equip-
5. Do not use this apparatus near water. ment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
6. Clean only with a dry cloth. not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
manufacturer’s instructions. guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and
on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type more of the following measures:
plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other.
A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. • Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the • Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for • Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from
replacement of the obsolete outlet. that to which the receiver is connected.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the CAUTION: Changes or modifications to this device not expressly
apparatus. approved by LOUD Technologies Inc. could void the user's authority to
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer. operate the equipment under FCC rules.
12. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or PORTABLE CART
21. This apparatus does not exceed the Class A/Class B (whichever is
table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with WARNING applicable) limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as
the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department
when moving the cart/apparatus combination to of Communications.
avoid injury from tip-over. ATTENTION — Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or radioélectriques dépassant las limites applicables aux appareils
when unused for long periods of time. numériques de class A/de class B (selon le cas) prescrites dans le
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required réglement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par les ministere des
when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power- communications du Canada.
supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have 22. Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent hearing
fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or loss. Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to noise-induced
moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped. hearing loss, but nearly everyone will lose some hearing if exposed to
15. This apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing, and no sufficiently intense noise for a period of time. The U.S. Government’s
object filled with liquids, such as vases or beer glasses, shall be placed Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specified
on the apparatus. the permissible noise level exposures shown in the following chart.
16. Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in a According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of these permissible limits
risk of fire or electric shock. could result in some hearing loss. To ensure against potentially danger-
17. This apparatus has been designed with Class-I construction and must ous exposure to high sound pressure levels, it is recommended that all
be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing con- persons exposed to equipment capable of producing high sound pres-
nection (the third grounding prong). sure levels use hearing protectors while the equipment is in operation.
Ear plugs or protectors in the ear canals or over the ears must be worn
18. This apparatus has been equipped with a rocker-style AC mains power when operating the equipment in order to prevent permanent hearing
switch. This switch is located on the rear panel and should remain loss if exposure is in excess of the limits set forth here:
readily accessible to the user.
19. The MAINS plug or an appliance coupler is used as the disconnect
device, so the disconnect device shall remain readily operable. Duration, Sound Level Typical Example
per day in dBA, Slow
CAUTION AVIS hours Response
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK. DO NOT OPEN 8 90 Duo in small club
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE. NE PAS OUVRIR
6 92
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL
4 95 Subway Train
ATTENTION: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE, NE PAS ENLEVER LE COUVERCLE.
AUCUN ENTRETIEN DE PIECES INTERIEURES PAR L'USAGER.
3 97
CONFIER L'ENTRETIEN AU PERSONNEL QUALIFIE.
AVIS: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES D'INCENDIE OU D'ELECTROCUTION, N'EXPOSEZ PAS CET ARTICLE
2 100 Very loud classical music
A LA PLUIE OU A L'HUMIDITE 1.5 102
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is 1 105 Greg and Ben screaming at Troy
intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous
voltage" within the product's enclosure, that may be of sufficient magnitude
about deadlines
to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons. 0.5 110
Le symbole éclair avec point de flèche à l'intérieur d'un triangle équilatéral
est utilisé pour alerter l'utilisateur de la présence à l'intérieur du coffret de 0.25 or less 115 Loudest parts at a rock concert
"voltage dangereux" non isolé d'ampleur suffisante pour constituer un risque
d'éléctrocution.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the
user of the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

WARNING — To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not

Le point d'exclamation à l'intérieur d'un triangle équilatéral est employé
pour alerter les utilisateurs de la présence d'instructions importantes pour le

expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

fonctionnement et l'entretien (service) dans le livret d'instruction
accompagnant l'appareil.

2
CONTENTS What? Me read a manual?
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS............................................ 2 Before you begin, please make sure you read the
INTRODUCTION....................................................... 5 Safety Instructions on page 2 and Getting Started
HOOKUP DIAGRAMS............................................... 5 on page 4.
MACKIE TH-15A FEATURES . .................................... 8
REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION................................. 8 Your new Mackie TH-15A powered loudspeakers
1. INPUT......................................................... 8
are designed to set up quickly and operate easily.
We know it’s often seen as a sign of weakness to
2. THRU ......................................................... 8
read a manual, along with asking for directions
3. LEVEL . ....................................................... 8
when lost, but we hope you will read the rest of the
4. OL INDICATOR............................................. 9
manual, at least while nobody is looking.
5. HIGH EQ..................................................... 9
6. MID EQ....................................................... 9 It is important to keep your receipt in a
7. MID FREQ................................................... 9 safe place, and not a bad idea to write your
8. LOW EQ...................................................... 9 product information below for future reference
9. EQ ON/OFF SWITCH . ................................. 9 (i.e., insurance claims, tech support, return
10. POWER SWITCH.......................................... 9 authorization, etc.).
11. LINE CORD SOCKET AND FUSE...................... 9
PROTECTION CIRCUITS........................................... 10
INPUT SIGNAL WIRING.......................................... 10
PLACEMENT........................................................... 10
APPENDIX A: SERVICE INFORMATION..................... 11
APPENDIX B: CONNECTIONS ................................. 12
APPENDIX C: TH-15A SPECIFICATIONS.................... 13
TH-15A DIMENSIONS............................................. 14
TH-15A FREQUENCY GRAPH.................................. 14
TH-15A BLOCK DIAGRAM...................................... 15
MACKIE LIMITED WARRANTY................................. 16

Please write the serial number for your TH-15A here

(or for both TH-15As if you have two) for ­future reference (i.e.,
insurance claims, tech support, return authorization, etc.):

Loudspeaker 1 Loudspeaker 2

Purchased at:___________________________________ Date of Purchase:_____________

Don’t forget to visit our website at www.mackie.com

for more information about this and other Mackie products.

Part No. SW0758 Rev. D 03/11

©2011 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved. 3
Getting Started
The following steps will help you set up your Now that you have your loudspeakers working, it’s
loudspeakers quickly. time to hunker down and read the rest of this manual…
especially the following:
INITIAL SETTINGS:
ADDITIONAL TIDBITS OF WIDSDOM:
1. Turn the LEVEL control on the rear panel all the
way down. • Never listen to loud music for prolonged periods.
2. Set the EQ ON/OFF switch out (OFF). Please see the Safety Instructions on page 2 for
3. Turn the POWER switch OFF. information on hearing protection.

• When you shut down your equipment, turn off the

CONNECTIONS: TH-15A loudspeakers first to prevent thumps
and other noises generated by any upstream
1. Connect the line-level signal from your mixer (or equipment from coming out the speakers. When
other signal source) to the INPUT jack on the TH- powering up, turn on the TH-15As last.
15A rear panel (XLR connector).
2. Connect the supplied AC power cord to the IEC • Save the shipping boxes and packing materials!
socket on the back of the loudspeaker. Plug the You may need them someday. Besides, your
other end into an AC outlet properly configured with cat will love playing in them and jumping out at
the correct voltage as indicated just below the IEC you unexpectedly. Remember to pretend like you
socket. are surprised!

• Save your sales receipt in a safe place.

TURN IT ON:
• Record the serial number in the space provided on
1. Turn the POWER switch ON. page 3, along with where and when you bought it.
2. Start your signal source (mp3 player, CD, DAW,
band, or whatever), but leave the master level
control on your mixer down.
3. Slowly turn up the LEVEL control on the TH-15A to
the “U” (unity gain) mark at the center position.
4. Adjust the master volume on your mixer to a
comfortably loud listening level. If the volume from
the speakers gets really loud, really fast, try turning
down the LEVEL control on the TH-15A a bit. If the
speakers don’t get loud enough, turn up the LEVEL
control to achieve a good balance of master volume
control and loudness from the speaker.

4
Introduction
The Mackie TH-15A Powered Loudspeaker delivers a chest-pounding 400W of peak system power via ultra-
efficient Class-D amplification. This means more power with less weight, perfect when portability matters. The 15”
high-precision woofer provides punchy low-end and responds quickly to transients. Hey, it’s called a THUMP, right?

An integrated 3-band contour EQ with a sweepable mid-frequency lets you dial in the perfect tone for your
application and even allows you to correct common room anomalies. The XLR input handles both mic and line level
signals, so you can just hook up a mic and be heard, assuming you have something to say. There’s even an XLR Thru
that allows you to easily “daisy chain” multiple TH-15As for increased coverage.

The TH-15A harnesses Mackie’s Active technology, including transducer time alignment, phase correction and
precision crossovers, maximizing the potential of every component. The THUMP is truly greater than the sum of its
parts.

Convenient top and side handles are integrated into the rugged, impact-resistant polypropylene enclosure,
providing a PA solution that is as durable as it is portable. And at only 36 lbs, it’s a breeze to pole-mount on a tripod
or atop a subwoofer.

Mackie TH-15A “THUMP” — High-performance audio without the high price tag.

Here’s a quick look at all the features packed into the TH-15A loudspeakers:

• 100W HF and 300W LF power amplifiers (peak) • High-density adiabatic fiberfill absorbs internal
• 15” low-frequency woofer reflections
• 1” high-frequency compression driver • Rear panel power switch
• Flat frequency response (–10 dB, 40 Hz to 20 kHz) • Pole-mount socket
• 24 dB/octave crossover at 3 kHz • Balanced Mic/Line XLR input and thru connectors
• Low-frequency over-excursion protection • Adjustable input level control
• High-strength lightweight polypropylene cabinet • LF EQ provides ±15 dB at 80 Hz and below
• Ported, bass reflex design for enhanced bass • MF EQ provides ±15 dB with sweepable frequency
performance from 100 Hz to 8 kHz
• Convenient portable design, with integrated • HF EQ provides ±15 dB at 12 kHz and above
handles in both sides and top • EQ bypass switch

Stereo Speaker Hookup

Left Right
TH-15A TH-15A Line-Level Line-Level
Output Output
CONTOUR EQ CONTOUR EQ
U U
EQ EQ MIC MIC MIC MIC (UNBALANCED)

L L
HIGH OFF HIGH OFF TAPE TAPE
12kHz ON 12kHz IN OUT
ON R R

-15 +15 -15 +15

ProFX8 Mixer
1 2 3/4 5/6 7/8
600 600
L L L L L

MON SEND FOOTSWITCH

FREQ FREQ
R R R R R

100 8k 100 8k ST RETURN FX SEND MAIN OUT PHONES

ON U OL ON U OL STEREO GRAPHIC EQ

48V

MID MID GAIN GAIN GAIN GAIN GAIN

POWER LEVEL POWER LEVEL EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ

-15 +15 U -15 +15 U MAIN
U U METERS

LOW LOW
80Hz 80Hz USB
O O
FX PRESETS

-15 +15 -15 +15

AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX
OO MAX OO MAX
INPUT LEVEL L R

USB THRU BREAK

PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN

THRU INPUT THRU INPUT

FX MASTER FX TO MON PHONES TAPE LEVEL

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MON MAIN

1 2 3/4 5/6 7/8 ST RTN FX RTN

The left and right line-level outputs from a mixer feed the inputs of two Mackie TH-15A Powered
5
Loudspeakers.
 Daisy-Chaining Two Speakers Per Side Using a Microphone and the Thru Jack

TH-15A TH-15A

CONTOUR EQ CONTOUR EQ
U U
EQ EQ
OFF HIGH OFF
HIGH 12kHz
12kHz ON ON

-15 +15 -15 +15

600 600

FREQ FREQ

100 8k 100 8k
ON U OL ON U OL

MID MID

POWER LEVEL POWER LEVEL

-15 +15 -15 +15 U
U
U U

LOW
80Hz
LOW
80Hz
CONTOUR EQ
O O
-15 +15 -15 +15
U
OO MAX OO MAX
EQ
HIGH OFF
12kHz ON
THRU INPUT THRU INPUT
-15 +15
600

FREQ

100 8k
ON U OL

POWER
-15 +15
MID
LEVEL
U
TH-15A
TH-15A TH-15A
U

LOW
80Hz
O
-15 +15
OO MAX

CONTOUR EQ CONTOUR EQ
U U
EQ EQ
HIGH
12kHz
OFF HIGH
12kHz
OFF
ON
THRU INPUT
ON
-15 +15 -15 +15
600 600

FREQ FREQ

100 8k 100 8k
ON U OL ON U OL

MID MID

POWER LEVEL POWER LEVEL

-15 +15 -15 +15 U
U
U U

O
LOW
80Hz
O
-15 +15
LOW
80Hz
Dynamic
Microphone
-15 +15
OO MAX OO MAX

THRU INPUT THRU INPUT

CONTOUR EQ

Thru
U

Thru
EQ
HIGH OFF
12kHz ON
-15 +15
600

FREQ

100 8k
ON U OL

Left Right POWER

MID
LEVEL TH-15A
Line-Level Line-Level
-15 +15 U
U

Output Output O
-15 +15
LOW
80Hz

OO MAX
MIC MIC MIC MIC MIC MIC (UNBALANCED)

ProFX12 Mixer
L L
TAPE TAPE
IN OUT
R R

1 2 3 4 5/6 7/8 9/10 11/12

THRU INPUT
L L L L L L

MON SEND FOOTSWITCH

R R R R R R

ST RETURN FX SEND MAIN OUT PHONES

STEREO GRAPHIC EQ

48V

GAIN GAIN GAIN GAIN GAIN GAIN GAIN GAIN

EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ
MAIN
METERS

USB
FX PRESETS

AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX

INPUT LEVEL L R

USB THRU BREAK

PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN

FX MASTER FX TO MON PHONES TAPE LEVEL

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MON MAIN
1 2 3 4 5/6 7/8 9/10 11/12 ST RTN FX RTN

The left and right line-level outputs from a For microphone connections, you can daisy-chain
mixer feed the inputs of two Mackie TH-15A up to two TH-15As using the THRU jack, as shown.
Powered Loudspeakers. Their respective THRU
jacks feed the inputs of another pair of Mackie Take great care to point any microphones away
TH-15A Powered Loudspeakers. from the loudspeakers. Otherwise, feedback may
occur.

6
PA System with two powered subwoofers

Right Main Left Main

Powered Loudspeaker Powered Loudspeaker
(Mackie TH-15A) (Mackie TH-15A)

High Pass High Pass

Output Output
Pole Mount Pole Mount

CFX12mkII Mixer

From Mixer From Mixer

Right Output Left Output

Powered Subwoofer Powered Subwoofer

(Mackie SRM1801) (Mackie SRM1801)

The left and right line-level outputs from a mixer feed the inputs of two powered subwoofers. The high
pass line-level outputs of the subwoofers feed the inputs of the Mackie TH-15A loudspeakers.

PA System with one powered subwoofer

Left and Right Main

Powered Loudspeakers
(Mackie TH-15A)

High Pass High Pass

Output Output
1 2 3 4 5/6 7/8 9/10 11/12

From Mixer
Left and Right MON MAIN

Outputs

ProFX12 Mixer
Powered Subwoofer
(Mackie SRM1801)

The left and right line-level outputs from a mixer feed the inputs of a powered subwoofer. The high pass
line-level outputs of the subwoofer feed the inputs of the Mackie TH-15A loudspeakers.
7
Mackie TH-15A Features
REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION

CONTOUR EQ
U
9
EQ
5 HIGH
12kHz
OFF
ON
-15 +15
600

7 FREQ

100 8k
ON U OL
4
POWER
6 MID
LEVEL
-15 +15 U
U

10 O
8 LOW
80Hz 3
-15 +15
OO MAX

THRU INPUT

11

2 1

This is where you connect AC power and your 3. LEVEL

signal to the loudspeaker and make adjustments to
the frequency response of the speaker to match the The LEVEL control adjusts the overall signal level at
loudspeaker’s location and your room’s environment. the input to the built-in power amplifiers. It ranges from
Off ( ) to MAX (maximum gain), with unity gain at the
center position (12 o’clock).
1. INPUT
• The TH-15A is designed to operate with a +4
This is a female XLR-type connector that accepts a
dBu signal when the LEVEL control is at the U
balanced mic or line-level signal from a mixing console
(center) position.
or other signal source. For small gigs, simply connect a
• The TH-15A can accept up to a +20 dBu signal
microphone directly and adjust the LEVEL accordingly.
by turning down the LEVEL control accordingly.
Turning the LEVEL past unity will provide enough
2. THRU gain to connect a microphone directly.

This is a male XLR-type connector that produces • NEVER connect the output of an amplifier directly
exactly the same signal that is connected to the input to the input of the TH-15A. This could damage the
jack. Use it to daisy-chain several TH-15A’s together off active input circuitry of the loudspeaker.
the same signal source.
8
4. OL Indicator 8. LOW EQ
The OL (overload) indicator lights when the This control gives you up to 15 dB of boost or cut
amplifiers in the TH-15A are near the clipping point. It below 80 Hz and it is also flat at the center position
is okay if the OL indicator blinks occasionally, because (U). This frequency range represents the punch in bass
this means that the transient peaks are just reaching drums, bass guitar, fat synth patches, and some really
the maximum output of the amplifiers and you are serious male singers.
getting the most from your TH-15As.

If the OL indicator is blinking frequently or lighting 9. EQ ON/OFF Switch

continuously, turn down the LEVEL control [3] on
This switch allows you to bypass the EQ section.
the TH15A or turn down the signal at it source (e.g.,
When the switch is out (OFF), the EQ section is
the mixing console) until the OL indicator blinks
bypassed and the EQ knobs have no effect on the signal.
occasionally or not at all.
When the switch is pushed in (ON), the EQ controls can
be used to tailor the frequency response of the TH-15A.
5. HIGH EQ
This control gives you up to 15 dB boost or cut above 10. POWER Switch
12 kHz. The circuit is flat (no boost or cut) at the
Use this switch to turn the TH-15A loudspeaker on
center position (U). Use it to add sizzle to cymbals,
and off. The indicating LED above the POWER switch
and an overall sense of transparency or edge to the
lights when the POWER switch is on and AC power
keyboards, vocals, guitar, and bacon frying. Turn it down
is available at the linecord socket. A second power
a little to reduce sibilance, or to remove high frequency
indicator is located on the front of the cabinet.
hiss.

11. Line Cord Socket and Fuse

6. MID EQ
Connect the detachable line cord to this IEC socket
This is a midrange EQ control that provides 15 dB
securely, and plug the other end into your AC outlet.
of boost or cut centered at any frequency between 100
Make sure the AC power is matched to the AC power
Hz and 8 kHz. The MID EQ circuit is flat (no boost or
indicated on the rear panel (under the IEC socket).
cut) at the center position (U). This frequency range
includes most vocals (male at the lower end of the
The fuse is located behind the fuse cover, at the
range and female at the upper end of the range), and
bottom of the IEC socket. See the “Troubleshooting”
the fundamentals and harmonics for many instruments.
section on page 11 for information about replacing the
fuse.
7. MID FREQ
This knob ranges from 100 Hz to 8 kHz and
determines the center frequency for the MID EQ filter.
This allows you to zero in on the precise narrow band of
frequencies you want to have affected by the MID EQ.

9
Protection Circuits
There are several protection mechanisms designed • If the internal temperature again gets too hot,
into the TH-15A to safeguard the loudspeakers and the shutdown process repeats. Should this
amplifiers from inadvertent damage. happen, make sure that airflow to the rear of the
cabinet is not restricted. If the ambient air
CAUTION: The protection circuits are temperature is very warm, try pointing a small
designed to protect the loudspeakers under fan toward the rear panel to increase the airflow
reasonable and sensible conditions. Should through the fins.
you choose to ignore the warning signs
(i.e., frequent OL LED indications, excessive distortion),
you can still damage the speakers in the TH-15A by Driver Protection
overdriving them past the point of amplifier clipping. Such
damage is beyond the scope of the warranty. Each driver has its own compression circuit, which
helps protect them from damaging transient peaks. The
compressors are designed to be transparent and are not
Overexcursion Protection noticeable under normal operating conditions.

Input Signal Wiring

A 12 dB/octave high-pass filter at 40 Hz just prior
to the low-frequency amplifier prevents very low
frequencies from being amplified. Excessive low-
frequency energy below 40 Hz can damage the woofer by You should use high-quality, shielded cable to
causing it to “bottom out,” also known as overexcursion, connect the signal source to the INPUT jack on the
which is equivalent to a mechanical form of clipping. TH-15A.

• High quality microphone cables work well.

Thermal Protection
• Foil shielded cables are commonly used for audio
All amplifiers produce heat. The TH-15A is designed wiring.
to be efficient both electrically and thermally.
• The better the shield, the better the immunity
The amplifier module is mounted on a large from externally induced noise (like EMI and
heatsink, which is cooled by convection where cool air RFI). Route the cable away from AC power cords
is drawn over the rear panel, carrying the heat away. and outlets. These are common sources for hum
In order for this convection cooling to work efficiently, in an audio signal. You can purchase quality
it is important to provide adequate airspace behind cables from your Mackie dealer.
the loudspeaker. When you position the TH-15A, we

Placement
recommend leaving at least six inches of air space
behind it.

• If for some reason the internal temperature The TH-15A loudspeaker is designed to sit on the
gets too hot, a built-in thermal switch activates floor or stage. It can be pole-mounted via the built-in
and turns off the amplifier. This protection socket on the bottom of the cabinet. Be sure the pole is
operates independently for the low-frequency and capable of supporting the weight of the TH-15A.
high-frequency amplifiers. Therefore, it is possible
for only the low frequency or high frequency WARNING: The cabinet has no rigging
amplifier to shut down while the other remains on. points and is not suitable for rigging.
NEVER attempt to suspend the TH-15A by
• When the amplifier cools down to a safe its handles.
temperature, the thermal switch resets
and normal operation resumes. As with any powered components, protect them from
moisture. If you are setting them up outdoors, make
sure they are under cover if you expect rain.

10
Appendix A: Service Information
If you think your Mackie product has a problem, 4. Replace the fuse drawer by pushing it all the way
please check out the following troubleshooting tips and back into the IEC socket.
do your best to confirm the problem. Visit the Support
section of our website (www.mackie.com) to get some If two fuses blow in a row, then something is very wrong.
ideas or contact our technical support heroes. You may Try a different outlet in a totally different location. If fuses
find the answer to the problem without having to send continue to blow, see the “Repair” section on the next page
your Mackie product away. to find out what to do.

Troubleshooting No Sound
No Power • Are the power LEDs on the front and rear panel
illuminated?
• Our favorite question: Is it plugged in?
• Make sure the line cord is securely seated in the • Is the LEVEL control turned up?
line cord socket and plugged all the way into the
AC outlet. • Is the signal source turned up? Make sure the
• Make sure the AC outlet is live (check with a signal level from the mixing console (or whatever
tester or lamp). device immediately precedes the loudspeaker) is
• Is the POWER switch in the ON position? high enough to produce sound.
• Are the power LEDs on the front and rear panel
illuminated? If not, make sure the AC outlet is • If it’s a stereo pair, try switching them around.
live. If so, refer to “No Sound” below. For example, if a left speaker is presumed dead,
• If the power LEDs are not illuminated, and you switch the left and right cords at the speakers. If
are certain that the AC outlet is live, it is possible the problem switches sides, it’s not the TH-15A. It
the fuse has blown. could be a bad cable, or no signal from the mixer.

Bad Sound
To remove and replace the fuse:
• Is the input connector plugged completely into
1. Disconnect the power cord from the IEC socket. the IN jack?

2. Remove the fuse drawer by prying it open with • Is something connected to the THRU jack? Try
a small screwdriver. It will slide all the way out. unplugging it. If the sound improves, whatever
was plugged into the THRU jack may have
affected the signal.

• Is it loud and distorted? Reduce the signal level at

the mixer.

• If possible, listen to the signal source with

headphones plugged into the preamp stage. If it
sounds bad there, it’s not the loudspeaker.

FUSE • Too much bass or not enough bass? Move

around the room and see if the bass response
changes. It’s possible your listening position
coincides with a room mode where the
3. Remove the fuse and replace it with an low frequencies either become exaggerated or
equivalent-type fuse. nulled. If so, try moving the loudspeakers to a
115 VAC unit: 6.3 amp slo-blo (T6.3AL/250 V) different position, or moving your listening
230 VAC unit: 3.15 amp slo-blo (T3.15AL/250 V) position.
11
Noise/Hum
• Check the signal cable between the mixer and
Appendix B: Connections
the loudspeaker. Make sure all connections are
secure. These problems usually produce crackling
noises or hum. XLR Connectors
XLR connectors are used to make balanced input
• If you are using two or more TH-15A powered
and through connections to the TH-15A. They are wired
loudspeakers, try plugging them all into the same
as follows, according to standards specified by the AES
AC outlet panel or outlet strip. The purpose for
(Audio Engineering Society).
this is to connect them all to the same earth
ground point and reduce the possibility of creating
2
a ground loop. SHIELD
HOT

• If connecting an unbalanced output to the TH-15A COLD 3 1

balanced input, make sure the shield is connected SHIELD 1
to the unbalanced ground and to pin 1 of the XLR.
COLD 3

Repair
2
HOT

1 SHIELD

3 COLD

For warranty service, refer to the warranty 2

HOT

information on page 15.

Non-warranty service for Mackie products is XLR Balanced Wiring

available at a factory-authorized service center. To Pin 1 = Shield
locate your nearest service center, call our Tech Pin 2 = Hot (+)
Support department at 1-800-898-3211, Monday-Friday, Pin 3 = Cold (–)
during normal business hours, Pacific Time, to explain
the problem. Tech Support will tell you where the
nearest factory-authorized service center is located in
your area.

Need help with your new loudspeaker?

• Visit www.mackie.com and click Support to find: FAQs, manuals, addendums, and other documents.

• Email us at: [email protected].

• Telephone 1-800-898-3211 to speak with one of our splendid technical support chaps (Monday
through Friday, normal business hours, PST).
12
Appendix C: TH-15A Specifications
Acoustic Performance Equalization
Frequency Range (–10 dB): 40 Hz – 20 kHz Low Frequency EQ: ±15 dB @ 80 Hz, shelving
Frequency Response (–3 dB): 50 Hz – 18.5 kHz Mid Frequency EQ: ±15 dB, bandpass,
sweepable from100 Hz to
Horizontal Coverage Angle: 90º 8 kHz
Vertical Coverage Angle: 60º High Frequency EQ: ±15 dB @ 12 kHz,
Maximum SPL Long-Term: 118 dB SPL @ 1m shelving
Maximum SPL Peak: 121 dB SPL @ 1m Direct/EQ Switch: Bypasses EQ section

Input/Output Protection Features

Input Type: Female XLR Balanced / Over-excursion Protection: Second-order sub-sonic
Unbalanced filter
Input Impedance: 20 k balanced Thermal Protection: Independent amplifier
bridging; shutdown, auto reset
10 k unbalanced
Driver Protection: Independent HF and LF
Loop-through: Male XLR Balanced / compressors
Unbalanced
(parallel with input)
Level Control: Rotating knob AC Power Requirements
0 dB at center US: 100 – 120 VAC,
Sensitivity: +4 dBu for full output 50 – 60 Hz 320 watts
(Level Control @ Center) EU, CN: 200 – 240 VAC,
–36 dBu for full output 50 – 60 Hz 320 watts
(Level Control @ Max) AC Connector: 3-pin IEC 250 VAC,
20 A male

Transducers
Low Frequency: 15 in / 381 mm with Construction Features
steel frame, paper cone Basic Design: Asymmetrical Trapezoidal
woofer
Material: Polypropylene
High Frequency: Horn-loaded 1 in /
Finish: Textured
25 mm exit compression
driver Handles: One on each side, one on
top
Grille: Perforated metal with
Power Amplifiers weather-resistant coating
Low Frequency Power Amplifier Display LEDs
Rated Power: 150 watts, 8 ohm load Front: Power ON
300 watts peak Rear: Power ON, OL (overload)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Operating Temperature: 0˚ – 40˚C
> –94 dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz, unweighted, 32˚ – 104˚F
referenced to 138 watts into 8 ohms
Design: BTL Class D
High Frequency Power Amplifier
Physical Dimensions and Weight
Dimensions
Rated Power: 50 watts, 4 ohm load
100 watts peak Height: 27.6 in / 702 mm
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Width: 16.8 in / 427 mm
> –97 dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz, unweighted, Depth: 15.5 in / 394 mm
referenced to 50 watts into 4 ohms Weight: 36 lb / 16.3 kg
Design: Class AB Mounting Methods:
Pole-mountable via the built-in socket on the
bottom of the cabinet. Be sure the pole is
Electronic Crossover capable of supporting the weight of the TH-15A.
Crossover Type: 24 dB/octave 13
Crossover Frequency: 3 kHz
TH-15A Dimensions

16.4 in /
417 mm

27.6 in / 26.2 in /
702 mm 666 mm 8.8 in /
222 mm
WEIGHT
36 lb
16.3 kg

5.9 in /
151 mm

24.9 in /
633 mm

16.8 in / 15.5 in /
427 mm 394 mm

TH-15A Frequency Response



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14
TH-15A Block Diagram

HF

LF
Amp

Amp

Monitoring
Converter

Converter
Digital to

Digital to

Thermal
Analog

Analog
Mute

Mute
Limiter
Limiter
Loudspeaker

Loudspeaker
Processing

Processing
12K
3-Band Contour EQ
HI

100-8K
MID

80
LO

Converter
Analog to
Digital
OL LED

LOUD Technologies Inc. is always striving to improve our products

by incorporating new and improved materials, components, and
Control

manufacturing methods. Therefore, we reserve the right to change

Level

these specifications at any time without notice.

“Mackie,” and the “Running Man” are registered trademarks of LOUD

Technologies Inc. All other brand names mentioned are trademarks
or registered trademarks of their respective holders, and are hereby
acknowledged.

©2011 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Loop
Input

XLR
Out
XLR

15
Mackie Limited Warranty

Please keep your sales receipt in a safe place.

This Limited Product Warranty (“Product Warranty”) is provided by LOUD Technologies Inc. (“LOUD”)
and is applicable to products purchased in the United States or Canada through a LOUD-authorized
reseller or dealer. The Product Warranty will not extend to anyone other than the original purchaser of
the product (hereinafter, “Customer,” “you” or “your”).

For products purchased outside the U.S. or Canada, please visit www.mackie.com/warranty to find
contact information for your local distributor, and information on any warranty coverage provided by the
distributor in your local market.

LOUD warrants to Customer that the product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship
under normal use during the Warranty Period. If the product fails to conform to the warranty then LOUD
or its authorized service representative will at its option, either repair or replace any such nonconforming
product, provided that Customer gives notice of the noncompliance within the Warranty Period to the
Company at: www.mackie.com/support or by calling LOUD technical support at 1.800.898.3211 (toll-
free in the U.S. and Canada) during normal business hours Pacific Time, excluding weekends or LOUD
holidays. Please retain the original dated sales receipt as evidence of the date of purchase. You will need it
to obtain any warranty service.

For full terms and conditions, as well as the specific duration of the Warranty for this product, please visit
www.mackie.com/warranty.

The Product Warranty, together with your invoice or receipt, and the terms and conditions located
at www.mackie.com/warranty constitutes the entire agreement, and supersedes any and all prior
agreements between LOUD and Customer related to the subject matter hereof. No amendment,
modification or waiver of any of the provisions of this Product Warranty will be valid unless set forth in a
written instrument signed by the party to be bound thereby.

Correct Disposal of this product: This symbol indicates that this product should not be disposed of with your household waste, according to the WEEE
Directive (2002/96/EC) and your national law. This product should be handed over to an authorized collection site for recycling waste electrical and
electronic equipment (EEE). Improper handling of this type of waste could have a possible negative impact on the environment and human health due
to potentially hazardous substances that are generally associated with EEE. At the same time, your cooperation in the correct disposal of this product will
contribute to the effective usage of natural resources. For more information about where you can drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please
contact your local city office, waste authority, or your household waste disposal service.

16
16220 Wood-Red Road NE • Woodinville, WA 98072 • USA
United States and Canada: 800.898.3211
Europe, Asia, Central and South America: 425.487.4333
Middle East and Africa: 31.20.654.4000
Fax: 425.487.4337 • www.mackie.com
E-mail: [email protected]