Mackie CR3.5BT 3.5" Bluetooth Powered Studio Monitors

The Mackie CR3.5BT is a compact pair of powered 3.5-inch studio monitors designed for desktop production, computer audio, gaming, and everyday music listening. One monitor contains the amplification and connections, powering the companion speaker through the included speaker wire. This setup gives users a simple way to move beyond basic computer speakers without adding a separate amplifier.

These monitors suit creators working in smaller rooms, streamers, gamers, and listeners who want wired and wireless playback options in one pair of speakers. TRS, RCA, and 3.5 mm analog inputs support interfaces, mixers, computers, and compatible playback devices. Bluetooth audio streaming adds convenient connectivity for phones, tablets, and laptops.

A front-panel tone control lets the sound be adjusted from a more transparent monitor-style response toward added bass and high-frequency emphasis. This makes it practical to switch between focused production work and more casual entertainment listening. The location switch further tailors operation for close desktop listening or more distant bookshelf placement.

The CR3.5BT uses a two-way design with 3.5-inch woven woofers and 1-inch silk-dome tweeters with protective grilles. Its 50-watt RMS bi-amplified Class A/B system is paired with a 3.0 kHz crossover. A custom-tuned rear port supports the monitor's low-frequency performance within its compact cabinet size.

For private listening, the powered monitor includes a 3.5 mm stereo headphone output that mutes the speakers when headphones are connected. The pair can be placed beside a computer display, on a desk, or on a shelf using the appropriate location setting. It can also serve as the main monitor pair in a compact audio system built around an interface, mixer, or other line-level source.

Key Features

• 3.5-Inch Two-Way Design: Woven woofers and silk-dome tweeters provide dedicated low- and high-frequency reproduction.
• 50-Watt RMS Amplification: Built-in bi-amplified Class A/B power eliminates the need for a separate amplifier.
• Tone Control: Adjusts playback from a more transparent response toward enhanced bass and treble.
• Location Switch: Select desktop or bookshelf mode to suit close or farther listening positions.
• Flexible Inputs: TRS, RCA, and 3.5 mm inputs support a range of analog audio sources.
• Bluetooth Streaming: Wirelessly play audio from compatible Bluetooth devices and use the headphone output for private listening.

Design & Installation

The CR3.5BT pair uses rectangular solid-MDF enclosures finished in black vinyl wrap. Each monitor has a custom-tuned rear port, while the silk-dome tweeter includes a protective grille. The powered monitor also uses a power-ring LED surrounding the Running Man logo.

Connect the powered and passive monitors with the supplied speaker wire, then connect a line-level source through TRS, RCA, or 3.5 mm input. Set the powered-speaker position switch according to whether the powered monitor is placed on the left or right, and select desktop or bookshelf mode for the intended listening distance. Leave space behind the cabinets for the rear ports, and use the supplied foam feet on a desk or shelf for a stable setup.