The Mackie CR4-X speaker (see image) weighs better when it comes to performance and quality. It is designed with standard quality materials and has an impressive sound performance than the former one.
In response to the high demand for multimedia computer speakers, Mackie offers one of the most trending speakers in the marketplace - CR3-X and CR4-X - for approximately $100-150. These two are best for desktop speakers for podcasters, YouTubers, and video editors. When it comes to its positioning, Mackie CR3-X is suitable for all spaces; Mackie CR4-X works only for small spaces. There are still a lot more to their differences, so stay tuned!
In summary, the Mackie CR3-X speaker has a 3-inch woofer, and its rear bass port is tuned higher than the CR4. Meanwhile, the Mackie CR4-X’s woofer measures 4 inches, making it way better when it comes to bass response.
At this point, let’s take a deeper look at the differences between these two speakers.
Sound Quality and Performance
The Mackie CR3-X and CR4-X both deliver an impressive sound quality performance. It makes them more suitable to use, especially during music jams with family and friends. However, after listening to the sound quality, I noticed that some factors differentiate them both.
The Mackie CR3-X gives a nice and decent bass; however, it’s not a bit impressive. With its 3-inch woofer, it is not a surprise if it’s not too deep like we used to expect. Despite this, Mackie CR3-X has a boom in the upper low-frequency part, overshadowing the lower mids. Hence, the speaker’s clarity remains spectacular.
Meanwhile, the Mackie CR4-X speaker is way better than the former. Like the Mackie CR3-X, it won’t still excite bass heads, but you are safe to expect that you can fully enjoy hip-hop and music jams with them. It also gives better lower midrange production and has precise high frequencies. With this, I would say that I prefer to choose the Mackie CR4-X for this round, considering that it has a better bass response than the Mackie CR3-X speaker.
You may check out the manual for CR-X Series.
Dimensions and Measurements
When it comes to dimensions and their measurements, I can say that these two speakers differ a lot. The Mackie CR3-X has a size of 8.2" H x 5.5" W x 6.2" D, making it easy to fit on all spaces. Also, it is made of lightweight materials, which makes it trouble-free to carry. On the other hand, Mackie CR4-X measures 8.8" H x 6.1" W x 7.3" D. It is slightly larger and takes some space on the table. But if you have a larger table, this is perfect for you.
Features
The Mackie CR3-X (see image) has a size of 8.2" H x 5.5" W x 6.2" D, making it easy to fit on all spaces.
I know some of you want a speaker that would give you freedom when arranging. In this case, the Mackie CR3-X speaker has got your back. It has one powered speaker having a class A/B amp. The Mackie CR3-X’s connecting ports are found at the rear, aside from its aux and headphone. But the aux is still quite accessible, especially when you want to connect your phone.
As much as Mackie CR3-X gives you convenience, the Mackie CR4-X speaker also has the same features to provide, such as having a class A/B amp. It makes this even more impressive as it has the advantage of switching the powered speaker side by side. This only means that you have the freedom to choose which side you want. If you prefer your controls on the left side, you can flip the switch on the left.
The Mackie CR4-X speaker has a bigger woofer size. Hence, it makes CR4-X have more advantage
Materials Used and Design
Both the Mackie CR3-X and CR4-X speaker has different build and design, but they are also the same in some aspects. Mackie CR3-X is not part of those high-end speakers built with the most robust materials. But one thing is for sure; this speaker lasts for a few years. I infer that if you remain it in one place, without moving the speaker around at all, it will take longer than expected.
The Mackie CR3-X speaker is designed like a typical studio or a bookshelf speaker. Its outer layer is covered with plastic, but beneath it is an MDF wood. Its primary purpose is to assist and reinforce the covered plastic's strength and durability. In this way, it makes the Mackie CR3-X speaker stronger.
On the flip side, the Mackie CR4-X speaker has the same features as the Mackie CR3-X. When you first tap the body, it feels like it is made with the same plastic material. But when you assess it better, this type of speaker is actually made out of a wood cabinet. Apart from this material that can improve its durability and strength, a wood-covered cabinet can also enhance the speaker's sound quality. After careful assessment, I would say that the Mackie CR4-X has an enormous edge in material quality than the Mackie CR3-X speaker.
Price
When it comes to prices, the Mackie CR3-X speaker has two variations - for Blue Trim, it costs $67.49, while for white color, its asking price is $109.99. For the Mackie CR4-X speaker, it cost $149.99.
Conclusion
Based on all the stated information above, the Mackie CR4-X speaker weighs better when it comes to performance and quality. It is designed with standard quality materials and has an impressive sound performance than the former one. However, these two have something in common. Thus, this makes the Mackie CR3-X speaker gives a decent sound quality and durable for years at a lesser price.