Mackie HD1221 User manual

HD1221
OWNER’S MANUAL
2-Way High-Definition
Powered Loudspeaker

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type
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.
The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the
provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in a
risk of fire or electric shock.
11. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at
plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
apparatus.
12. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
13. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or
table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with
the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution
when moving the cart/apparatus combination to
avoid injury from tip-over.
14. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or
when unused for long periods of time.
15. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required
when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-
supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have
fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or
moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
16. This apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing, and no
object filled with liquids, such as vases or beer glasses, shall be placed
on the apparatus.
17. This apparatus has been designed with Class-I construction and must
be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing
connection (the third grounding prong).
18. The MAINS plug or an appliance coupler is used as the disconnect
device, so the disconnect device shall remain readily operable.
19.NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy
and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may
cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is
no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
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
more of the following measures:
• Reorientorrelocatethereceivingantenna.
• Increasetheseparationbetweentheequipmentandthe
receiver.
• Connecttheequipmentintoanoutletonacircuitdifferentfrom
that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consultthedealeroranexperiencedradio/TVtechnicianfor
help.
CAUTION: Changes or modifications to this device not expressly
approved by LOUD Technologies Inc. could void the user's authority to
operate the equipment under FCC rules.
20. This apparatus does not exceed the Class A/Class B (whichever is
applicable) limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as
set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department
of Communications.
ATTENTION — Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits
radioélectriques dépassant las limites applicables aux appareils
numériques de class A/de class B (selon le cas) prescrites dans le
réglement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par les ministere des
communications du Canada.
21. Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent hearing
loss. Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to noise-induced
hearing loss, but nearly everyone will lose some hearing if exposed to
sufficiently intense noise for a period of time. The U.S. Government’s
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specified
the permissible noise level exposures shown in the following chart.
According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of these permissible limits
could result in some hearing loss. To ensure against potentially
dangerous exposure to high sound pressure levels, it is recommended
that all persons exposed to equipment capable of producing high
sound pressure 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 when operating the equipment in order to prevent
permanent hearing loss if exposure is in excess of the limits set forth
here:
Important Safety Instructions
PORTABLE CART
WARNING
CAUTION AVIS
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK. DO NOT OPEN
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE. NE PAS OUVRIR
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL
ATTENTION: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE, NE PAS ENLEVER LE COUVERCLE.
AUCUN ENTRETIEN DE PIECES INTERIEURES PAR L'USAGER.
CONFIER L'ENTRETIEN AU PERSONNEL QUALIFIE.
AVIS: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES D'INCENDIE OU D'ELECTROCUTION, N'EXPOSEZ PA S CET ARTICLE
A LA PLUIE OU A L'HUMIDITE
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous
voltage" within the product's enclosure, that may be of sufficient magnitude
to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
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
"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.
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
fonctionnement et l'entretien (service) dans le livret d'instruction
accompagnant l'appareil.
WARNING — To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not
expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
Duration,
per day in
hours
Sound Level
dBA, Slow
Response
Typical Example
8 90 Duo in small club
6 92
4 95 Subway Train
3 97
2 100 Veryloudclassicalmusic
1.5 102
1 105 Poonswang screaming at desTROYer
about deadlines
0.5 110
0.25 or less 115 Loudest parts at a rock concert
2
HD1221
HD1221

Introduction
The HD1221 Powered Loudspeaker represents a major
step into portable high-definition live sound, providing
precise, articulate full-range sound at the high-output
levels demanded of modern PA systems. Two Class-D
Fast Recovery™ amplifiers efficiently drive 1200 Watts
of total system power, providing maximum output with
minimal distortion. True high-definition sound is
possible thanks to an arsenal of technological
innovations including patented acoustic correction
processing that was previously only available on high-
end stadium touring systems. This complex processing,
along with a phase-coherent electronic crossover and
transducer time-alignment provide unparalleled
acoustic accuracy that has to be heard to be believed.
The HD1221 features system tuning, a 12” neodymium
woofer and a 1.75” heat-treated titanium compression
driver, custom designed by the award winning
engineering team at EAW, delivering the ultimate in
both quality and performance.
A custom rotatable horn by Martin Audio, three
selectable voicing modes and extensive protection
circuitry complete this ultra-portable, powerful HD
system that may be used as the house PA or as monitors
for the band.
All of these high-end components are housed in a
rugged, all-wood enclosure that not only protects, but
allows for multiple mounting options including flying
and pole mounting. The HD1221 brings high-definition
sound to the world of portable PA systems.
22. Rigging Precautions: When mounting or suspending loudspeaker
enclosures, it is essential that load ratings, rigging techniques, and
special safety considerations be appropriate for the installation. Use
only the mounting/rigging points on the loudspeaker enclosure
intended for this purpose. The user must determine the load
requirements, dynamic loading, and any other contributing factors
affecting the loudspeaker installation. The user must determine the
proper design factor for specific applications and the required load
rating of the connection to structure. Comply with all applicable
federal, state, and local regulations.
We strongly recommend the following rigging system practices:
• Documentation:Thoroughlydocumentthemounting/rigging
design with detailed drawings and parts lists.
• Analysis:Havealicensedstructuralengineerorotherqualied
professional review and approve the mounting/rigging design
before its implementation.
• Installation:Usepersonnelexperiencedandqualiedfor
mounting/rigging loudspeakers in accordance with and in
compliance with all federal, state and local regulations.
DANGER: Loudspeakers should be mounted or suspended only
by persons with knowledge of the proper hardware and rigging
techniques. When stacking or pole-mounting loudspeakers, be
sure that they are stabilized and secured from falling over or being
accidentally pushed over. Failure to follow these precautions may
result in damage to the equipment, personal injury, or death.
Features
• 1200Wofultra-efcientClass-DFast
Recovery™ amplification
•LF500WRMS/1000Wpeak
•HF100WRMS/200Wpeak
• High-denitiondigitalprocessingincludes:
•Revolutionarypatentedacousticcorrection
•Transducertimealignmentandphase
correction
•Precision2-waycrossover
• CustomdesignedtransducersbyEAW
•12”neodymiumwooferwith3”voicecoil
•1.75”compressiondriverwithheat-treated
titanium diaphragm
• Customdesigneduser-rotatable90˚x50˚horn
by Martin Audio
• 60˚monitorangleformaximumcoverageon
stage
• Threeuser-selectablevoicingmodesforeasy
system tuning
• Ultra-compactandlightweight(50lb/22.7kg)
• Integratedlimitingandprotectioncircuitry
• Ruggedallwoodcabinet(15mmbirch)
• 12integratedypointsforhorizontaland
vertical rigging
• Stand/polemountable
3
Owner’s Manual
Owner’s Manual
PartNo.SW0845Rev.A09/10
©2010 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Contents
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 2
INTRODUCTION 3
FEATURES 3
HOOKUP DIAGRAMS 4
REAR PANEL FEATURES 7
PLACEMENT 9
ROOM ACOUSTICS 10
RIGGING 11
THERMAL CONSIDERATIONS 13
AC POWER 13
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 13
APPENDIX A: SERVICE INFORMATION 14
APPENDIX B: CONNECTIONS 15
APPENDIX C: TECHNICAL INFORMATION 16
HD1221 BLOCK DIAGRAM 17
HD1221 GRAPHS AND DIMENSIONS 18
HD1221 LIMITED WARRANTY 19

HD1221: 2-WAY SYSTEM
Hookup Diagrams
This simple system may be utilized in a variety of ways anywhere high-output and easy setup are needed. Great
for wedding DJs to vocal reinforcement to full band PA, the HD1221 is the perfect setup when you need a high-
output, ultra-portable PA.
In this example, the left and right main outputs from a mixer feed the MAIN INPUTs of a pair of Mackie HD1221
powered loudspeakers.
Note: HD1221s do not necessarily need to be pole-mounted. They may be placed on a floor, stage, or other
firm surface or they may be flown for permanent installs. Please refer to pages 9-12 for more information on
HD1221 placement, acoustics and rigging.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9-10 11-121234
Po wer
Cord
To Mackie HD1221
powered loudspeaker
MAIN INPUT
To Mackie HD1221
powered loudspeaker
MAIN INPUT
Po wer
Cord
Mixing Console
(Mackie CFX12mkII shown)
L/R
MAIN
OUT
4
HD1221
HD1221

HD1221: 3-WAY SYSTEM WITH POWERED SUBWOOFERS
Mackie HD1221
powered loudspeaker
reproduces
all frequencies
above the subwoofer’s
crossover point
Mackie HD1221
powered loudspeaker
reproduces
all frequencies
above the subwoofer’s
crossover point
Po wer
Cord
Pole
Mount
Line level
HIGH PASS
OUTPUT A
Line level
HIGH PASS
OUTPUT A
To Mackie HD1501
powered subwoofer
INPUT A
To Mackie HD1501
powered subwoofer
INPUT A
To Mackie HD1221
powered loudspeaker
MAIN INPUT
To Mackie HD1221
powered loudspeaker
MAIN INPUT
Po wer
Cords
Mackie HD1501
powered subwoofer
plays the low
frequencies
Po wer
Cord
Pole
Mount
Po wer
Cords
Mackie HD1501
powered subwoofer
plays the low
frequencies
Mixing Console
(Mackie Onyx 1640i shown)
L/R
MAIN
OUT
Similar to the previous hookup diagram, this one adds some low end to your portable PA. It is perfect for the
same setups as mentioned previously [sound reinforcement, weddings, vocal reinforcement, portable PA for a full
band of all genres, etc.], as well as for DJs and other functions that call for additional low-end thump. This is the
perfect setup when you need an ultra-portable PA with A LOT of output!
In this example, the left and right main outputs from a mixer feed the inputs of a pair of Mackie HD1501
powered subwoofers. HIGH PASS OUTPUT A of each subwoofer feed the MAIN INPUTs of the Mackie HD1221
powered loudspeakers. The HD1221s reproduce the mid-to-high frequencies in stereo, and the subs provide the
low frequencies in stereo.
If just a little extra low end is needed, a single HD1801 may be used with a pair of HD1221s and still retain a
stereo image.
5
Owner’s Manual
Owner’s Manual

HD1221: MONITOR SETUP
Mackie HD1221 powered loudspeakers strewn across the stage in monitor position
Po wer
Cord
Po wer
Cord
Po wer
Cord
Po wer
Cord
AUX SENDS 1-3 to Mackie HD1221
powered loudspeaker MAIN INPUTS
Mackie HD1221 powered
loudspeaker LOOP OUT to
Mackie HD1221 powered
loudspeaker MAIN INPUT for the
prima donna lead singer who
needs two monitors
LEFT/RIGHT MAIN OUTS to house PA
(Mackie HD1801 Po wer Subwoofers and
Mackie HD1531 Po wered Loudspeakers
not shown, but that would be a great setup!)
Mixing Console
(Mackie 2404-VLZ3 shown)
GAIN
1
GAIN
2
GAIN
3
GAIN
4
GAIN
5
GAIN
6
GAIN
7
GAIN
8
GAIN
9
GAIN GAIN GAIN GAIN GAIN GAIN
10 11 12 13 14 15
GAIN GAIN GAIN GAIN GAIN GAIN
20 21/22 23/2417 18 19
GAIN
16
AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUX AUXAUX
2404
12345678910 11 12 13 14 15 18 19 20 21/22 23/2416 17
EQ
PAN
EQ
PAN
EQ
PAN
EQ
PAN
EQ
PAN
EQ
PAN
EQ
PAN
EQ
PAN
EQ
PAN
EQ
PAN
EQ
PAN
EQ
PAN
EQ
PAN
EQ
PAN
EQ
PAN
EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ
PANPAN PANPAN BALBAL
EQ
PAN
FX2 FX1
12 34
MAINMIX
1 2
STEREO RETURNSAUX MASTERS
MAIN
MIX
This is the perfect setup for using HD1221s as high output, professional stage monitors. This type of setup may be
utilized at local clubs, festival stages, in churches and more.
In this example, AUX SENDS 1-3 from a mixer feed the MAIN INPUTS of three Mackie HD1221 powered
loudspeakers which lay across the front of the stage as monitors for the band. Additionally, a fourth Mackie
HD1221 powered loudspeaker is daisy-chained by using the LOOP OUT XLR jack from one of the other
monitors, providing two monitors off of a single aux send. See page 15 [‘Appendix B: Connections’] for details
on how to daisy-chain loudspeakers.
The left and right main outputs from the same mixer feed the MAIN INPUTs of the house PA speakers. See the
hook-up diagram on the previous page [‘HD1221: 3-way system with powered subwoofers’] to see how to
connect the mixer to the PA.
6
HD1221
HD1221

Rear Panel Features
1. MAIN INPUT
This is a female XLR-type connector that accepts
a balanced line-level signal from a mixing console or
othersignalsource.SeeAppendixBformore
information about this connector.
2. LOOP OUT
This is a male XLR-type connector that produces
exactly the same signal that is connected to the main
inputjack.Useittodaisy-chainseveralHD1221's
togetheroffthesamesignalsource.SeeAppendixBfor
more information about this connector.
3. VOICING MODE
Thisbuilt-in3-positionvoicingmodeswitchallowsthe
HD1221 to be tailored for any sound application.
CONTOUR
 SettheVoicingModeswitchtothe‘CONTOUR’
position for low-level applications. This is the
perfect setting when a little more low and high
end is necessary. The LED next to the switch
 willilluminateyellowwhen‘CONTOUR’isthe
chosen voicing mode.
NORMAL
This is the standard position of the switch,
 hencethename,‘NORMAL’.Itisidealformost
PA applications where the HD1221 will be
cranked. Additionally, this is the recommended
 positionwhenpairedwithasubwoofer.Ofthe
three options, this is the most accurate voicing
mode and should be used in the majority of
applications. The LED next to the switch will
 illuminategreenwhen‘NORMAL’isthechosen
voicing mode.
MONITOR
 The‘MONITOR’positionisdesignedforwhen
the HD1221 will be used as a stage monitor,
 butitmayalsobeutilizedwhenyouneedthe
vocals to cut through a high-gain, high-output
 instrument(suchasguitar).Inthisposition,
the low frequency is rolled off, while the
mids and highs are tuned to cut through stage
volume with as much gain before feedback
as possible. The LED next to the switch will
 illuminateredwhen‘MONITOR’isthechosen
voicing mode.
POWER
LIGHT ON
SIG/ LIMIT
THERMAL
MAIN
INPUT
LOOP
OUT
LEVEL
+6dB 6dB
-
HD1221
2-WA Y HIGH DEFINITION POWER ED LO UDSPEAKER
VOICING MODE
NORMAL
CONTOUR
MONITOR
POWER
ON
RE VISIO N
SE RIA L NU MBE R
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSETHIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE. DONOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER SERVICEABLE
PARTSINSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIEDPERSONNEL.
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE — NE PAS OUVRIR
PARALLEL
7
Owner’s Manual
Owner’s Manual
1 2 3 4
8
9
5
6
7

7. LEVEL
This controls the overall signal level at the input to
thebuilt-inpowerampliers.Itrangesfrom–6dBto
+6dBofgain.Thecenterdetentis0dB(unitygain).
UsethiscontroltovarytheleveloftheHD1221versus
otherloudspeakersandsubwoofersinyoursystem.Be
suretokeepaneyeontheSIG/LIMITLED[6].
8. POWER
UsethisswitchtoturntheHD1221onandoff.The
LED next to the switch will illuminate when powered
on. The front panel LED will also turn on, but only if the
POWERLIGHTONswitch[4]isengaged.
Press the bottom of this switch to put the speaker into
standby mode. The HD1221 will not function, but the
circuits are still live. To remove AC power, either turn
off the AC mains supply, or unplug the power cord from
the speaker and the AC mains supply.
As a general guide, the powered speakers
should be turned on last, after the mixer and
other sources. They should also be the first
things turned off. This will reduce the possibility of any
turn-on, or turn-off thumps in your speakers.
9. IEC AC Receptacle
Thisjackacceptsthesupplied3-prongACpowercord.
BeforeyouplugtheACpowercordintothe
powered loudspeaker, make sure that the
voltageofyourunit(listedabovetheIECAC
receptacle)isthesamevoltageasyourlocalACmains
supply.Useonlythepowercordsupplied.Also,
disconnectingtheplug’sgroundpinisdangerous.Don’t
do it.
4. POWER LIGHT ON
Press this switch in to turn on the front panel power
LED if a visual indicator is preferred. The LED next to
the switch will light as a reminder.
Ifthisswitchisdisengaged[out],andtheHD1221is
powered on, the LED on the front of the cabinet will not
light, nor will the LED next to the switch. The LED next
tothePOWERSwitch[8]andotherrearpanelLEDs
will still illuminate when the unit is powered on.
5. THERMAL LED
The HD1221 is equipped with a thermal protection
circuit that monitors the internal temperature of the
ampliersandheatsink.Ifthetemperatureexceedsa
safe operating level, this indicator lights and the input
signal is muted to allow the amplifiers to cool. When the
temperature cools to a safe level once again, the thermal
protection circuit deactivates, the THERMAL LED turns
off and the HD1221 returns to normal operation.
When the HD1221 is in thermal protect mode, the
unitisstillpoweredondespitethelackofoutput.If
POWERLIGHTON[4]isengaged,thefrontpanel
power LED will go out when in thermal protect mode.
Activation of the thermal protection circuit
is an indication that you should take steps
toavoidcontinuedthermalproblems.See
‘ThermalConsiderations’onpage13formore
information.
6. SIG/LIMIT LED
This bi-color LED illuminates green whenever there is
asignalpresentattheMAININPUTconnector.Itsenses
thesignaljustaftertheLEVELcontrol,soadjustments
totheLEVELcontrolwillaffecttheSIG/LIMIT
indicator.
The HD1221 has a built-in limiter that helps to
prevent the amplifier outputs from clipping or
overdrivingthetransducers.TheSIG/LIMIT 
indicatorlightsyellowwhenthelimiterisactivated.It's
okay for it to blink yellow occasionally, but if it blinks
frequently or lights continuously, turn down the level
control until it only blinks occasionally.
Excessive limiting may lead to
overheating, which in turn trips the thermal
protect circuitry and interrupts the
performance.See‘ThermalConsiderations’onpage13
for more information.
8
HD1221
HD1221

WARNING:Installationshouldonlybedoneby
anexperiencedtechnician.Improper
installation may result in damage to the
equipment, injury or death. Make sure that the
loudspeaker is installed in a stable and secure way in
order to avoid any conditions that may be dangerous for
persons or structures.
The HD1221 speaker is designed to sit on the floor or
stageasthemainPAorasmonitors.Itmayalsobepole-
mounted via the built-in socket on the bottom of the
cabinet.Besurethepoleiscapableofsupportingthe
weightoftheHD1221.TheMackieSPM200isagreat
option when using a sub. The HD1221 may also be flown
horizontallyorverticallyviaits12integratedypoints
as detailed on page 11.
Check to make sure that the support surface
(e.g.,oor,etc.)hasthenecessarymechanical
characteristics to support the weight of the
loudspeaker(s).
When pole-mounting loudspeakers, be sure that they
arestabilizedandsecuredfromfallingoverorbeing
accidentally pushed over. Failure to follow these
precautions may result in damage to the equipment,
personal injury, or death.
As with any powered components, protect them from
moisture. Avoid installing the loudspeaker in places
exposedtoharshweatherconditions.Ifyouaresetting
them up outdoors, make sure they are under cover if you
expect rain.
Placement
180˚
Youcancreateahorizontalarraybyplacingthe
cabinets side-by-side. However, you should have a good
understanding of the relationship between the splay
angle(theanglebetweenthefacingsidesofthe
cabinets)andfrequencycancellationeffectsbetween
cabinets.
When two cabinets are positioned side-by-side such
that the rear-angled faces of the enclosures are
parallel,thesplayanglewillbe90º.Thismatchesthe
90˚horizontalcoveragepatternofeachindividual
HD1221; the interference between the two cabinets will
beminimized,butthetotalcoverageof180˚maybetoo
wideforsomeapplications(seeFigureA).Themidand
high frequencies may also be reduced for those in the
center who are too close to the loudspeakers.
Reducing the splay angle will reduce the total
horizontalcoverage,butitalsocreatesanareaboth
speakersarecovering.Insteadofaneareldhole,
this will cause comb-filtering effects in the frequency
response in the overlapping area. The smaller the splay
angle, the more energy will be delivered on-axis, but the
comb-filtering effects will get worse at the same time
(seeFigureB).
Experimentation and experience will help you find
therighttrade-offforyourapplication.Intheend,the
correct placement will depend on the environment and
the necessary audience coverage.
Two HD1221s horizontally arrayed with 180˚
coverage with no interference.
Two HD1221s horizontally arrayed with 110˚
coverage with center interference.
110˚
Interference
9
Owner’s Manual
Owner’s Manual
Figure BFigure A

Room Acoustics
The HD1221 loudspeakers are designed to sound
neutral; that is, to reproduce the input signal as
accurately as possible.
Room acoustics play a crucial role in the overall
performance of a sound system. Here are some
additional placement tips to help overcome some typical
roomproblemsthatmightarise:
• Avoidplacingloudspeakersinthecornersof
a room. Doing so increases the low frequency
output and can cause the sound to be muddy
and indistinct.
• Avoidplacingloudspeakersagainstawall.This,
too, increases the low frequency output, though
not as much as corner placement. However, this
is a good way to reinforce the low frequencies,
if so desired.
• Avoidplacingthespeakersdirectlyona
hollow stage floor. A hollow stage can resonate
at certain frequencies, causing peaks and dips
inthefrequencyresponseoftheroom.Itis
better to place the loudspeakers on a sturdy
stand designed to handle the weight of the
HD1221.
• Positiontheloudspeakerssothehigh-
frequencydriversare2to4feetaboveear
levelfortheaudience(makeallowancesfora
standing/dancingintheaislesaudience).High
frequencies are highly directional and tend to
be absorbed much easier than lower
frequencies.Byprovidingdirectline-of-sight
from the loudspeakers to the audience, you
increase the overall brightness and
intelligibility of the sound system.
• Highlyreverberantrooms,likemany
gymnasiums and auditoriums, are a
nightmare for sound system intelligibility.
Multiple reflections off the hard walls, ceiling,
and floor play havoc with the sound. Depending
on the situation, you may be able to take some
stepstominimizethereections,suchas 
putting carpeting on the floors, closing
draperies to cover large glass windows, or
hanging tapestries or other materials on the
walls to absorb some of the sound.
However, in most cases, these remedies are not
possibleorpractical.Sowhatdoyoudo?
Making the sound system louder generally
doesn’tworkbecausethereectionsbecome
louder, too. The best approach is to provide as
much direct sound coverage to the audience
as possible. The farther away you are from
the speaker, the more prominent will be the
reflected sound.
 Usemorespeakersstrategicallyplacedsothey
areclosertothebackoftheaudience.Ifthe
distance between the front and back speakers
is more than about 100 feet, you should use a
delayprocessortotime-alignthesound.(Since
sound travels about 1 foot per millisecond, it
takesabout1/10ofasecondtotravel100feet.)
KeepinmindthattheVOICINGMODEswitchisa
greatwaytocompensateforsomeoftheseissues.See
page 7 for more information.
10
HD1221
HD1221

Rigging
HD1221smaybeindividuallyownhorizontallyor
verticallyusingM10x1.5x37mmforgedshoulder
eyebolts.
WARNING:Installationshouldonlybedoneby
anexperiencedtechnician.Improper
installation may result in damage to the
equipment, injury or death. Make sure that the
loudspeaker is installed in a stable and secure way in
order to avoid any conditions that may be dangerous for
persons or structures.
WARNING:Thecabinetissuitableforrigging
viaitsypoints.NEVERattempttosuspend
the HD1221 by its handles.
Rigging Design Practices
Riggingaloudspeakerrequiresdetermining:
1. The rigging methods and hardware that meet static,
shock, dynamic, and any other load requirements for
supporting the loudspeaker from structure.
2. The design factor for and the required WLL
(WorkingLoadLimit)forthissupport.
Mackie strongly recommends the following rigging
practices:
1.Documentation:Thoroughlydocumentthedesign
with detailed drawings and parts lists.
2.Analysis:Haveaqualiedprofessional,suchasa
licensed Professional Engineer, review and approve the
design before its implementation.
3.Installation:Haveaqualiedprofessionalriggerdo
the installation and inspection.
4.Safety:Useadequatesafetyprecautionsand
back-up systems.
Rigging Hardware and Accessories
Rigging Mackie loudspeakers will invariably require
hardwarenotsuppliedbyMackie.Varioustypesof
load-rated hardware are available from a variety of
third-party sources. There are a number of such
companiesspecializinginmanufacturinghardwarefor,
designing, and installing rigging systems. Each one of
thesetasksisadisciplineinitsownright.Becauseof
thehazardousnatureofriggingworkandthepotential
liability,engagecompaniesthatspecializeinthese
disciplines to do the work required.
Mackie does offer certain accessory rigging items,
primarily for attachment to the hardware integral with
theloudspeaker.Someitems,suchaseyeboltsand
U-brackets,maybeusedwithavarietyofproducts.
While these accessories are intended to facilitate
installation, the wide variety of possible installation
conditions and array configurations do not permit
Mackie to determine their suitability or load rating for
any particular application.
Mackie is not in the business of providing complete
rigging systems, either as designers, manufacturers, or
installers.Itistheresponsibilityoftheinstallerto
provide a properly engineered, load-certified rigging
system for supporting the loudspeaker from structure.
Rigging Notes
TheHD1221’sintergralmountingpointsaredesigned
to support only the weight of their own loudspeaker
with suitable, external hardware. This means that each
HD loudspeaker must be supported independently of
any other HD loudspeaker and any other loads.
A minimum of two rigging points must be used to hang
an HD1221. More may be used for creating the desired
hanging angle as shown in the illustrations on the
following page. All mounting points are fully load
bearing so any two may be used for rigging; no mounting
points are restricted to angle control only.
12 Fly Points
Three each on the top and bottom (6 total) Two on each side (6 total)
MPMP
MP MP
MPMP
MP
MP
MP
MP
MP
MP
MP = Mounting Point
11
Owner’s Manual
Owner’s Manual

Flown Vertically
Flown Horizontally Flown Horizontally with
Mackie HD1801 subwoofer
Important Rigging Reminder:
To reiterate, Mackie is not in the business of providing
complete rigging systems, either as designers,
manufacturers,orinstallers.Itistheresponsibilityof
the installer to provide a properly engineered, load-
certified rigging system for supporting the loudspeaker
from structure.
The illustrations provided below are just a couple of
rigging possibilities.
12
HD1221
HD1221
Top Fly
Points
Top Fly
Points
Side Fly Points
Side Fly Points
Rear Fly Points
(adjust angle)
Rear Fly Points
(adjust angle)
Lower Rear
Fly Point
(adjusts angle)

Thermal Considerations
The HD1221 has two powerful built-in amplifiers
capableofproducingacombined600wattsofrms
power. As an amplifier works, it produces heat. The
higherthesignallevel,thelouderandhotteritgets.It
is important to dissipate the heat as quickly as possible.
This results in increased reliability and longevity for the
amplifier.
The amplifier module is mounted on a large heatsink,
which is cooled by convection where cool air is drawn
throughitsns,carryingtheheataway.Inorderforthis
convection cooling to work efficiently, it is important
to provide adequate airspace behind the loudspeaker.
Additionally, a thermally-controlled fan resides inside
of the HD1221 which helps to reduce the chance of it
overheating and thermalling. When positioning the
HD1221, we recommend leaving at least six inches of air
space behind it.
Intheunlikelyeventoftheamplieroverheating,a
built-in thermal switch will activate, muting the
signal, lighting the thermal LED, and ramping the fan
up to top speed. When the amplifier has cooled down to
a safe operating temperature, the thermal switch resets
itself, and the HD1221 resumes normal operation.
Ifthethermalswitchactivates,tryturningdownthe
levelcontrolanotchortwoonthemixingconsole(or
thebackoftheHD1221)toavoidoverheatingthe
amplier.Beawarethatdirectsunlightand/orhotstage
lights may be the culprit of an amplifier overheating.
AC Power
BesuretheHD1221ispluggedintoanoutletthat
is able to supply the correct voltage specified for your
model.Itwillcontinuetooperateatlowervoltages,but
will not reach full power.
Besuretheelectricalservicecansupplyenough
amperage for all the components connected to it.
Werecommendthatastiff(robust)supplyofAC
power be used because the amplifiers place high
current demands on the AC line. The more power that is
available on the line, the louder the speakers will play
and the more peak output power will be available for a
cleaner, punchier bass. A suspected problem of “poor
bass performance” is often caused by a weak AC supply
to the amplifiers.
Never remove the ground pin on the power
cord or any other component of the HD1221.
This is very dangerous.
Care and Maintenance
Your Mackie loudspeakers will provide many years of
reliableserviceifyoufollowtheseguidelines:
• Avoidexposingtheloudspeakerstomoisture.If
they are set up outdoors, be sure they are under
cover if rain is expected.
• Avoidexposuretoextremecold(below
freezingtemperatures).Ifyoumustoperatethe
loudspeakers in a cold environment, warm up
the voice coils slowly by sending a low-level
signal through them for about 15 minutes prior
to high-power operation.
• Useadryclothtocleanthecabinets.Onlydo
this when the power is turned off. Avoid getting
moisture into any of the openings of the
cabinet, particularly where the drivers are
located.
13
Owner’s Manual
Owner’s Manual

• Poorbassperformancemaybetheresultofbad
ACpower.Seethesectiontitled‘ACPower’on
the previous page for further details.
Poor sound
• Isitloudanddistorted?Makesurethatyou’re
not overdriving a stage in the signal chain.
Verifythatalllevelcontrolsaresetproperly.
• Istheinputconnectorpluggedcompletelyinto
thejack?Besureallconnectionsaresecure.
Noise
• Makesureallconnectionstotheactive
loudspeakers are good and sound.
• Makesurenoneofthesignalcablesarerouted
near AC cables, power transformers, or other
EMI-inducingdevices.
• IstherealightdimmerorotherSCR-based
deviceonthesameACcircuitastheHD1221?
UseanAClinelterorplugtheHD1221intoa
different AC circuit.
Hum
• Trydisconnectingthecableconnectedtothe
maininputjack.Ifthenoisedisappears,it
could be a “ground loop,” rather than a problem
with the HD1221. Try some of the following
troubleshootingideas:
• Usebalancedconnectionsthroughoutyour
system for the best noise rejection.
• Wheneverpossible,plugalltheaudio
equipment’slinecordsintooutletswhichshare
a common ground. The distance between the
outlets and the common ground should be as
short as possible.
Repair
For warranty service, refer to the warranty
informationonpage19.
Non-warranty service for Mackie products is
availableatafactory-authorizedservicecenter.To
locate the nearest service center, visit www.mackie.com,
click“Support”andselect“LocateaServiceCenter.”
ServiceforMackieproductslivingoutsidetheUnited
Statescanbeobtainedthroughlocaldealersor
distributors.
Ifyoudonothaveaccesstoourwebsite,youmaycall
theTechSupportdepartmentat1-800-898-3211,
Monday-Friday, 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.
IfyouthinkyourMackieproducthasaproblem,
please check out the following troubleshooting tips and
doyourbesttoconrmtheproblem.VisittheSupport
sectionofourwebsite(www.mackie.com/support)
where you will find lots of useful information such as
FAQs and other documentation. You may find the answer
to the problem without having to send your Mackie
product away.
Troubleshooting
No power
• Isitpluggedin?MakesuretheACoutletislive
(checkwithatesterorlamp).
• Ournextfavoritequestion:Isthepowerswitch
on?Ifnot,tryturningiton.
• IsthepowerLEDontherearpanelglowing
green?Ifnot,makesuretheACoutletislive.If
so, refer to “No sound” below.
• TheinternalAClinefusemaybeblown.Thisis
notauserserviceablepart.Ifyoususpectthe
AC line fuse is blown, please see the "Repair"
section next.
No sound
• Istheinputlevelcontrolfortheinputsource
turnedallthewaydown?Verifythatallthe
volume controls in the system are properly
adjusted.
• Isthesignalsourceworking?Makesurethe
connecting cables are in good repair and
securely connected at both ends. Make sure the
outputvolume(gain)controlonthemixing
console is turned up sufficiently to drive the
inputs of the speaker.
• MakesurethemixerdoesnothaveaMuteon
oraprocessorloopengaged.Ifyound
somethinglikethis,makesurethevolume/
gain is turned down before disengaging the
offending switch.
• Isthethermalindicatorlitredontherear
panel?Makesurethereisatleastsixinchesof
free space behind the HD1221.
Poor bass performance
• Checkthepolarityoftheconnectionsbetween
the mixer and the loudspeakers. You may have
your positive and negative connections reversed
at one end of one cable, causing one
loudspeaker to be out-of-phase with the other.
Appendix A: Service Information
14
HD1221
HD1221

Appendix B: Connections
“XLR” Connectors
The HD1221 has one female XLR input that accepts
a balanced line-level signal. When connecting a balanced
signal,besureit’swiredperAES(AudioEngineering
Society)standards:
XLR
Pin1–Shield(Ground)
Pin2–Hot(+)
Pin3–Cold(–)
There is also a male XLR connector on the HD1221
labeledLOOPOUT.Thisisalsowiredaccordingtothe
AESstandardslistedabove.
Balanced XLR Connectors
TheLOOPOUTconnectorallowsyoutoconnect
severalHD1221s.Simplyplugthesignalsource
(i.e.,mixeroutput)intotheinputjack,andpatchthat
speaker’sLOOPOUTjacktothenextspeaker’sinput
jack,andsoon,daisy-chainingmultiplespeakers.See
below for a visual example of daisy-chaining.
There is a limit to how many HD1221s may
be daisy-chained together. A general rule
is to maintain a load impedance ten times
or more than the source impedance to
prevent excessive loading on the source. For example, if
the mixer has an output impedance of 120 , then you
can daisy chain up to nine HD1221s. This is a load of
1222 (HD1221inputimpedance=11k ;9ofthesein
parallel=1222 ).Sincemicrophonestypicallyhavea
higher output impedance, you should limit
daisy-chaining from a mic source to two HD1221s.
TheLOOPOUTjackiswiredstraightfromthemain
input connector — there is no electronic circuitry
between—sothesignalcomingoutoftheLOOPOUT
jack is exactly the same as the signal going in.
DAISY-CHAINING MULTIPLE HD1221S
POWER
LIGHT ON
MAIN
INPUT
LOOP
OUT
LEVEL
+
HD1221
2-WAY HIGH DEFINITION POWERED LOUDSPEAKER
VOICING MODE
POWER
ON
REVISION
PARALLEL
POWER
LIGHT ON
MAIN
INPUT
LOOP
OUT
LEVEL
+
HD1221
2-WAY HIGH DEFINITION POWERED LOUDSPEAKER
VOICING MODE
POWER
ON
REVISION
PARALLEL
POWER
LIGHT ON
MAIN
INPUT
LOOP
OUT
LEVEL
+
HD1221
2-WAY HIGH DEFINITION POWERED LOUDSPEAKER
VOICING MODE
POWER
ON
REVISION
PARALLEL
POWER
LIGHT ON
MAIN
INPUT
LOOP
OUT
LEVEL
+
HD1221
2-WAY HIGH DEFINITION POWERED LOUDSPEAKER
VOICING MODE
POWER
ON
REVISION
PARALLEL
Mixing Console
(Mackie 1604-VLZ3 shown)
to next
speaker
L/R
MAIN
OUT
to next
speaker
15
Owner’s Manual
Owner’s Manual

Acoustic Performance:
Frequency Response (-10 dB) 55 Hz – 20 kHz
Frequency Response (-3 dB) 65 Hz – 18 kHz
Horizontal Coverage (–6 dB)190˚ averaged
2 kHz to 10 kHz
Vertical Coverage (-6 dB)150˚ averaged
2 kHz to 10 kHz
Max peak SPL (calculated)2133 dB
Max peak SPL (measured)3124 dB
Crossover Point 1.5 kHz
Voicing Mode
Contour LF, HF boost
Normal Nominally flat
Monitor 100 Hz HPF,
broad cut @ 3 kHz
High-Frequency Section
Voice Coil Diameter 1.75 in / 44 mm
Horn Entry Diameter 1.0 in / 25 mm
Diaphragm Material Heat-treated titanium
Magnet Material Ferrite
Low-Frequency Section
Woofer Diameter 12.0 in / 305 mm
Voice Coil Diameter 3.0 in / 76 mm
Diaphragm Material Paper
Magnet Material Neodymium
Power Amplifiers
Low Frequency Power Amplifier
Rated Power 500 watts rms
1000 watts peak
Rated THD < 0.03%
Cooling Convection Extrusion
Design Class D
High Frequency Power Amplifier
Rated Power 100 watts rms
200 watts peak
Rated THD < 0.03%
Cooling Convection Extrusion
Design Class D
Input/Output
Input Type Female XLR balanced
Input Impedance 11 k balanced
Loop Out Male XLR balanced
1 HF horn can be rotated 90˚ if desired.
2 Calculated from driver sensitivity and amplifier power.
3 Measured with pink noise, free field at 1 meter, before limiting.
Line Input Power
US model 100 – 120 VAC, 50 – 60 Hz, 200W
EU / CN model 200 – 240 VAC, 50 – 60 Hz, 200W
AC Connector 3-pin IEC 250 VAC
Safety Features
Input Protection: RMS limiting, power supply and
amplifier thermal protection
Display LEDs: Power ON, Voicing Mode selection,
Sig/Limit, Thermal protection,
Front Power ON
Construction Features
Basic Design Asymmetrical monitor, 60˚ tilt
Cabinet 15 mm exterior grade premium
birch plywood
Finish High durability black paint
Handles One on each side, one on top
Grille Powder-coated galvanized steel
Fly Points Twelve M10 x 1.5 mm
Monitor Angle 60˚
Physical Properties
Height 24.0 in / 610 mm
Width 15.2 in / 386 mm
Depth 15.0 in / 381 mm
Monitor position depth 16.2 in / 412 mm
Weight 50 lb / 22.7 kg
Mounting Methods
Floor mount, pole mount, or fly via 12 integrated M10 mounting
points (using M10 x 1.5 x 37 mm forged shoulder eyebolts). See
page 11 for more information.
Options
PA-A2 Forged Shoulder Eyebolt Kit
(4 x M10 x 1.5mm x 37 mm) P/N 0028272
SPM200 Loudspeaker Pole Mount P/N 2035170-01
Disclaimer
Since we are always striving to make our products better by
incorporating new and improved materials, components, and
manufacturing methods, we reserve the right to change these
specifications at any time without notice.
“Mackie” and the “Running Man” figure 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.
HD1221 Specications
Appendix C: Technical Information
©2010 LOUD Technologies Inc.
All Rights Reserved.
16
HD1221
HD1221

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.
HD1221 Block Diagram
MAIN INPUT XLR
LOOP OUT XLR
HF LF
Amp Amp
Digital to Analog Converter Digital to Analog Converter
Analog to Digital Converter
Signal / Limit LED
HD Loudspeaker Processing
Limiter Limiter
Mute
Level Control
HD Loudspeaker Processing
Contour Normal Monitor
Voicing Mode
Thermal Monitoring
17
Owner’s Manual
Owner’s Manual

HD1221 Dimensions
HD1221 Frequency Response
15.2 in /
386 mm
16.2 in /
411 mm
60˚
24.0 in /
610 mm
15.7 in /
399 mm
15.0 in /
380 mm
WEIGHT
50 lb
22.7 kg
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18
HD1221
HD1221

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.
Need help with your new powered loudspeaker?
• Visit www.mackie.com and click Support to nd: FAQs, manuals, and addendums.
• Email us at: [email protected]om.
• Telephone [phone] to speak with one of our splendid technical support chaps (Monday through Friday, normal business hours, PST).
19
Owner’s Manual
Owner’s Manual

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: [phone] • www.mackie.com
E-mail: [email protected]