Mackie CR5BT 5.25" Powered Studio Monitor Pair

The Mackie CR5BT is a pair of 5.25-inch powered studio monitors designed for nearfield production work, desktop listening, gaming, and everyday playback. It combines built-in amplification with wired and Bluetooth audio connectivity, so an external speaker amplifier is not required. The pair is suited to creators and listeners who want one compact monitoring system for a computer, audio interface, mixer, or compatible mobile device.

Each system uses a 5.25-inch woven woofer and a 1-inch silk-dome tweeter with a protective grille. Its rated frequency response is 59 Hz to 20 kHz at -3 dB, supporting clear mids and highs with useful low-frequency extension for a compact desktop monitor. The rear-ported MDF cabinets are designed to support fuller bass response while maintaining a practical footprint.

A front-panel tone control lets the CR5BT adapt to different listening tasks. With the control set toward the transparent reference response, the monitors are intended for tracking and mixing; turning it up gradually adds bass and high-frequency emphasis for casual listening or games. This makes it easier to move between work-focused and entertainment-focused sound without changing speakers.

The location switch provides Desktop and Bookshelf modes to better suit close-up or more distant listening positions. Desktop mode is intended for a nearfield workspace, while Bookshelf mode is intended for placement farther from the listener. The 100-watt RMS bi-amplified Class D system provides the power for the paired active/passive monitor setup.

For source flexibility, the powered monitor accepts balanced or unbalanced 1/4-inch TRS, unbalanced RCA, and 3.5 mm stereo connections, plus Bluetooth 5.0 audio streaming. A 3.5 mm headphone output provides a convenient private-listening option and mutes speaker playback when headphones are connected. The CR5BT can serve as the main monitor pair in a desktop system and may be complemented by a separate Mackie CR8SBT subwoofer when additional low-end output is desired.

Key Features

• 5.25-Inch Woven Woofer: Delivers low and midrange output from a compact monitor cabinet.
• 1-Inch Silk-Dome Tweeter: Supports detailed high frequencies with a protective grille.
• 100-Watt RMS Amplification: Built-in bi-amplified Class D power eliminates the need for an external amplifier.
• Tone Control: Adjusts bass and high-frequency emphasis for work or casual listening.
• Location Switch: Selects Desktop or Bookshelf mode for the listening position.
• Bluetooth 5.0 Streaming: Plays audio wirelessly from compatible Bluetooth devices.

Design & Installation

The CR5BT uses rectangular solid-MDF enclosures finished in black vinyl wrap. Each cabinet has a custom-tuned rear port, while the tweeter includes a protective grille. The powered speaker has a front power-ring LED around the Running Man logo and houses the system connections and controls.

Place the pair on a stable desk, shelf, or speaker stands with room behind the rear ports, then position the speakers toward the listening area. Connect a compatible source through 1/4-inch TRS, RCA, 3.5 mm stereo, or Bluetooth, and use the location switch for close desktop listening or a more distant bookshelf arrangement. Headphones connect to the 3.5 mm output on the powered speaker when private listening is needed.