The Mackie CR8S Gen 3 BT is an active subwoofer designed to extend the low-frequency performance of Mackie's CR (Creative Reference) monitors, expanding compact desktop setups into full-range 2.1 systems. Built to integrate seamlessly with CR3.5, CR4.5, and CR5 monitors, it adds low-frequency weight where smaller speakers naturally reach their limits, while preserving the clarity and balance required for music production, content creation, gaming, and everyday listening. Its compact enclosure and studio-friendly design make it well suited to small rooms and nearfield environments, where controlled bass reproduction is essential. The CR8S BT features Bluetooth audio, allowing wireless playback from phones, tablets, or laptops.
The Mackie CR8S BT is built around an 8" high-excursion woofer housed in a rigid MDF enclosure with a rear-firing bass reflex port, designed to deliver extended low-frequency response with control rather than sheer excess. Its tuning favours definition and punch, ensuring bass lines, kick drums, and low-end effects remain tight and intelligible rather than boomy. An adjustable crossover allows the subwoofer to be precisely matched to CR Gen 3 monitors, handing over low frequencies smoothly while leaving mids and highs clear and uncoloured. A rear-panel level control makes it easy to balance the sub with the nearfield monitors, whether the system is used for music production, content creation, gaming, or everyday listening.
The Mackie CR8S BT is designed for users who want to feel the low end, not just hear it. It's a natural addition for producers working with Electronic music, Hip-Hop, or cinematic sound, for gamers seeking physical impact, and for content creators who need clearer insight into bass-heavy mixes. Positioned under a desk or beside a workstation, it extends the system's range without complicating everyday use. Rear-panel level and crossover controls make it easy to add weight where needed – from tight, controlled bass for accurate monitoring to a fuller, more immersive low end for gaming and listening. Compact for an 8" subwoofer and easy to manage in small rooms, the CR8S BT brings depth and low-frequency support to desktop setups that would otherwise reach their limits in the low end.
In 1988 Greg Mackie, already a successful co-founder of a pro audio company, founded Mackie Designs Inc. with the goal of producing affordable, high-quality mixers. The company's first official product, the LM-1602 line mixer, was initially produced within the four walls of his home. As sales figures were encouraging, its successor model CR-1604 soon followed - and in 1991 the company finally moved into its first proper production facility. The combination of reliable quality and low prices quickly brought the company enormous success, so that by 1995 Mackie had already sold 100,000 products. In 2003, the company was renamed LOUD Audio, LLC so that there is no longer any confusion between the Mackie brand and its former parent company of the same name.
As the dedicated subwoofer in Mackie's CR Gen 3 range, the CR8S BT completes the system for users who want to move beyond the natural limits of compact monitors. Paired with CR3.5, CR4.5, or CR5 speakers, it adds low-frequency extension and control without altering the familiar voicing or workflow of the CR series. This modular approach allows users to start with a simple stereo setup and expand to a full 2.1 system as needs evolve. The result is a compact desktop monitoring system that scales naturally without adding unnecessary complexity.
CRDV desktop remote
The Mackie CR8S BT includes a wired desktop remote that provides a convenient way to adjust both the overall system output level and the subwoofer level independently. Placed on a desk or workstation, it allows users to fine-tune listening volumes and bass balance without reaching behind the subwoofer or monitors. This is particularly useful in nearfield and desktop setups, where small adjustments can make a noticeable difference during music production, gaming, or everyday listening.