Mackie has started shipping the new Creative Reference multimedia monitor line, with two new models to start with - the CR3 and CR4.

These new compact powered speakers are designed to be equally adept as studio-quality reference monitors for music production, and as entertainment multimedia speakers.

According to the company, both the CR3 amd CR4 monitors are "built using only premium, high-performance components". The official description says, ""Mackie Creative Reference monitors deliver professional sound quality and features perfect for work, play and everything in between".

The main difference between the CR3 and CR4 monitors is the size of their polypropylene-coated woofers. The CR3 is smaller at 3", while the CR4 is slightly bigger at 4". Other than the woofers, both Creative Reference monitors share the same features, including having a 50 Watt amplifier, a .75" ferrofluid-cooled silk-dome tweeter, and an all-wood cabinet that is designed to provide a more natural sonic output.

The two speakers feature convenient front-panel volume controls, providing the same level of convenience as regular multimedia speakers. The volume knob also comes with a lit power ring that indicates if the speaker is turned on. There is also an input port for connecting your headphones right at the front of the speakers. This front-facing headphone jack auto-defeats speaker output, and provides silent headphone monitoring.

Other features include:

• A choice of inputs for simple connection to almost any audio source (1/4”, 1/8”, RCA)
• Smooth waveguide design for improved clarity and sound dispersion at all listening levels
• Custom-tuned rear ports for smooth, even bass extension
• You can control where you want the volume knobs and front-panel inputs are set up via the speaker placement switch

The Creative Reference CR3 and CR4 monitors are bundled with acoustic isolation pads to minimize boomy bass build-up and provide up/down tilt control for more focused listening. For quick out-of-the-box setup, each box will come with important cables, including a 1/8″ to stereo RCA cable to connect computer output to speakers, 1/8″ to 1/8″ cable to connect a smartphone or media player to front panel of speakers, and a speaker-to-speaker cable.

Check out the official video demo:

Finally, both speakers feature a straightforward black finish design that serve as backdrops for the green halos that highlight the tweeters and woofers. The new Creative Reference monitors have started shipping world wide and are being sold in pairs. The CR3 has an MSRP of $129.99, while the slightly bigger CR4 has an MSRP of $199.99. For more information and other details, head over to Mackie.

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