From sevush@rcn.com Sun Aug 04 09:58:58 2002
Subject:RE: Mackie vs. Barbetta???

> I am considering the Mackie SRM450 or one of the Barbetta amps, but
> have never had the opportunity to play through either of them.
> Research has narrowed my search down to these as having the right
> specs and I would like to hear from some experiences in the field.

I've owned a pair of Mackie 450s for a year and I love 'em. Clear, clean,
versatile, compact, easy to carry (two handles in great places). Sometimes I
use just one as THE amp in practice or small room. At 400 clear watts, it
has the power to cut through and the dispersion is amazing and clear for the
high end. I will often just plug a keyboard directly in, using a 1/4" -> XLR
converter.

I can use them as a monitor, main amp, both - and in stereo, watch out! I
also sometimes place the pair as a stand for my S80 and they face out in a
modern version of the Rhodes suitcase.

I have a Behringer 16 channel mixer and it's quite good, in comparison to
the Mackie 1402VLZ. I'm going to get the little 10 channel battery powered
unit instead of hauling the 1402 in a case, so I guess that's another
endorsement.

I would give a listen to the Behringer powered monitor - at $400, I'm
curious as to how it sounds.