Mackie PPM1008 8-Channel 2 x 800W Powered Mixer

Important Safety Instructions

Please read and follow these safety instructions carefully:

• Read these instructions.
• Keep these instructions.
• Heed all warnings.
• Follow all instructions.
• Do not use this apparatus near water.
• Clean only with a dry cloth.
• Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
• Do not install near heat sources like radiators, heat registers, or other apparatus that produce heat (including amplifiers).
• Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades, one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or third prong is for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit your outlet, consult an electrician to replace the obsolete outlet.
• Avoid obstructing the power cord, particularly at the plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
• Use only attachments specified by the manufacturer.
• 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.
• Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
• Refer all servicing to qualified 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.
• Do not overload power outlets or extension cords, as this can result in a risk of electric shock.
• This apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing, and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
• This apparatus is designed as Class-I construction and must be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earth connection (the third prong).
• This apparatus is designed with a rocker-type AC power switch. This switch is located on the rear panel and shall remain readily operable.

CAUTION: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK - DO NOT OPEN

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

The lightning flash symbol with an arrowhead, 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.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the apparatus.

Noise Exposure

Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent hearing loss. Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss, but almost everyone will lose some hearing if exposed to sufficiently intense noise for a sufficient time. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) specifies the permissible noise-exposure limits in the following table. According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of these permissible limits could result in some loss of hearing. To protect against the potential for dangerous exposure to high sound pressure levels, it is recommended that all persons exposed to this equipment use hearing protection during operation.

Introduction

Mackie's PPM1008 is a powerful, self-amplified mixer designed for various sound reinforcement needs, from small clubs to rehearsal rooms and outdoor festivals. It offers robust performance and reliability, built on Mackie's extensive experience in audio engineering.

Features

• Two internal 800-watt peak power amplifiers (at 4 ohms).
• Three amplifier modes: "stereo main", "mono-main/monitor 1", or "mon 1/mon 2".
• 8 channels: 6 mono and 2 stereo.
• Mic inputs on all channels.
• Line level inputs (6 mono, 2 stereo).
• RCA inputs on stereo channels.
• Insert jacks on mono channels.
• Channels 5 and 6 allow direct guitar/bass connection via Hi-Z switch.
• 3-band EQ with sweepable mids on mono channels.
• 4-band EQ on stereo channels.
• Monitor 1 send.
• Stereo main line outputs.
• Mono main sub output.
• Line level amplifier inputs for connecting external mixers.
• Footswitch connection for mute/unmute effects.
• FX/Monitor 2 send (selectable pre/post).
• +48V Phantom Power for all mic inputs.
• Integrated compressors on the first 4 mono inputs (in-line compression).
• 24 x 32-bit Running Man stereo effects with input gain, tap delay, and footswitch mute/unmute.
• 9-band graphic EQs with constant-Q filters on main and monitor outputs.
• Stereo RCA Tape/CD outputs.
• 12-segment output meters for main mix and mono meter for monitor 1.
• Mute switches on all mono channels.
• Speakon and 1/4" amplified outputs.
• Precision EQ for clarity and bass response with Mackie passive loudspeakers.
• Polycarbonate side panels with metal handles.
• Modern and elegant design.

How to Use This Manual

This manual is organized into sections corresponding to the mixer's zones: Rear Panel, Patchbay, Channel Strips, and Master Section. Each feature is illustrated and described in the nearby paragraphs.

VERY IMPORTANT: This icon indicates critical or unique information.

A CLOSER LOOK: This icon indicates additional explanations and tips.

Connection Diagrams

The following diagrams illustrate typical connection setups for the PPM1008 mixer.

Rear Panel

The rear panel provides connections for power, speaker outputs, and mode selection.

1. Power Connection: Accepts a standard 3-pin IEC power cord. Ensure your unit's voltage matches your local supply. Do not defeat the grounding pin.
2. Power Switch: A rocker-type switch to turn the mixer on (top) or off (bottom). The power LED [35] illuminates when connected to AC power and the switch is on.
3. Speaker Outputs: Provide speaker-level output from the internal power amplifiers to passive loudspeakers. The PPM1008 delivers 500 Watts RMS per channel into 4 ohms. Only connect passive loudspeakers to these outputs. The outputs can be selected via the Power Amp Mode switch [4] for Stereo Mains, Mono Main/Monitor 1, or Monitor 1/Monitor 2 configurations. Common connectors provided are Speakon and 1/4" TS. Speakon outputs are wired Pin 1+ (hot) and Pin 1- (neutral).
4. Power Amp Mode Switch: A three-position switch to route the signal to the internal amplifiers. Options are: Stereo Mains (Channel A = Left Main Mix, Channel B = Right Main Mix), Mains/Monitor 1 (Channel A = Mono Main Mix, Channel B = Monitor Mix), or Monitor 1/Monitor 2 (Channel A = Monitor 1 Mix, Channel B = Monitor 2 Mix). This switch has no effect if signals are connected to the front panel amplifier inputs [20].
5. Ventilation and Rear Panel: Ventilation openings allow internal fans to move cooling air. Do not obstruct these openings to prevent overheating and shutdown. Do not remove the feet, as they elevate the mixer for proper ventilation. Avoid placing the mixer on soft, carpeted surfaces that could block bottom vents.
6. Handles: Sturdy metal handles for easy and safe transport.

Front Panel / Patchbay

The front panel houses all input connections, channel controls, master controls, and the effects processor.

Patchbay

This is where you connect microphones, line-level instruments, guitars, effects, recorders, PA systems, and powered monitors. Refer to connection diagrams for ideas. Annex B (page 25) provides details on connectors.

1. Microphone Inputs: Balanced XLR inputs with phantom power. These are excellent for rejecting noise and hum. They accept professional dynamic, ribbon, and condenser microphones. The mic/line inputs handle various levels, allowing you to "push" them without overloading.
2. Mono Line Inputs (Channels 1-4): 1/4" jacks that share circuitry with the preamps. They can be used for balanced or unbalanced sources.
3. Line/Instrument Inputs (Channels 5 & 6): Accept line-level or instrument-level signals. Engaging the Hi-Z switch [34] allows direct connection of guitars and basses without a DI box.
4. Stereo Line Inputs (Channels 7 & 8): Stereo line inputs. For mono sources, connect to the left/mono input; the signal will appear in both left and right channels of the main mix.
5. RCA Inputs (Channels 7 & 8): Unbalanced line-level inputs for connecting CD players, tape decks, iPod docks, etc. Not suitable for phono-level sources like turntables, which require a phono pre-amplifier.
6. Inserts (Channels 1-6): 1/4" unbalanced jacks for connecting external processors like compressors, EQs, or filters. The insert point is after the gain and compression circuits (channels 1-4), but before channel EQ and level controls. A special insert cable is required (Tip=Send, Ring=Return, Sleeve=Ground).
7. Tape Outputs: Stereo RCA outputs for recording the main stereo mix to tape, hard disk recorder, or CD. These outputs carry the main stereo mix and are unaffected by the main level control [38] or main graphic EQ [36].
8. Break Switch and LED: Quickly mutes all microphones and mono line-level inputs, useful for pausing performances. Monitor and FX/2 sends, and the internal effects signal are also muted. The LED indicates when the switch is active.
9. FX/Mon 2 Send Output: A 1/4" TRS line-level output that can feed an external effects processor (FX) or a second set of monitors (Mon 2). This output is a copy of what is sent to the internal effects processor, a mix of all channels with the FX/Mon 2 control [22] turned up.
10. FX Pedal Connection: A 1/4" TRS jack for connecting a footswitch to easily mute/unmute internal effects.
11. Monitor 1 Send: A 1/4" TRS output to send the Monitor 1 line-level signal to stage monitors. This mix is independent of the main mix and channel levels.
12. Main Sub Output: A 1/4" TRS connector providing a copy of the mono main mix below 100 Hz, typically for connecting to a subwoofer amplifier.
13. Main Outputs: 1/4" TRS line-level outputs that carry the main mix. These can be connected to external amplifiers or powered speakers. They reproduce the same signal as the speaker outputs but at line level.
14. Amplifier Inputs: 1/4" TS unbalanced inputs that allow direct connection of line-level signals to the internal amplifiers.

Channel Controls

The eight vertical channel strips are similar, each operating independently.

Mono Channels 1-6

• Affect mono mic or mono line inputs.
• Channels 1-4 feature adjustable threshold compression.
• Channels 5 & 6 have a Hi-Z switch [34] for direct guitar connection.
• 3-band EQ with adjustable frequency sweep for mids, and shelf EQs for highs and lows.
• Mono signals are split equally to the main mix left and right.

Stereo Channels 7-8

• Stereo channels, affecting mic, stereo line, or RCA stereo inputs.
• 4-band EQ with shelf EQs for highs and lows, and peak EQs for mid-highs and mid-lows.

"U" signifies Unity Gain: "U" on level controls indicates no change in signal level. Level labels are in decibels (dB).

Signal Flow: Inputs feed a preamp (gain set by switch [32]). Stereo line/RCA inputs bypass the gain preamp. Signal passes through compressor (channels 1-4), then channel EQ and level [31]. Mon 1 control [21] is pre-channel level. FX/Mon 2 control [22] is pre/post channel level, selectable via switch [51] (post for effects, pre for Mon 2).

Channel Specifics

Channel 21: MON 1

Creates an independent monitor mix. Controls deliver unity gain at center, up to 15 dB gain when fully clockwise. Channel or main mix levels do not affect monitor output, but EQ and gain do.

Channel 22: FX/MON 2

Sends signal to internal effects or a second monitor mix. Controls turn off when down, deliver unity gain at center, up to 15 dB when fully clockwise. Functionality (FX or Mon 2) is determined by the FX send/mon 2 switch [51].

Channel EQ

Mono channels feature 3-band EQ (high shelf, mid peak with frequency sweep, low shelf). Stereo channels have 4-band EQ (high shelf, mid-highs peak, mid-lows peak, low shelf). "Shelf" EQ boosts or cuts frequencies beyond the set point. "Peak" EQ boosts or cuts a specific frequency band.

• Channel 23: HIGH EQ: +/- 15 dB boost/cut above 12 kHz. Adds brightness or reduces sibilance.
• Channels 24 & 25: MID EQ (Ch 1-6): Level and Frequency controls for mid-range EQ. Frequency sweep from 100 Hz to 8 kHz.
• Channels 26 & 27: MID-HIGH/MID-LOW EQ (Ch 7-8): Mid-highs EQ +/- 15 dB at 2.5 kHz. Mid-lows EQ +/- 15 dB at 400 Hz.
• Channel 29: BASS EQ: +/- 15 dB boost/cut below 80 Hz. Adds punch to bass, kick drum, and low-end synths.
• Channel 30: OVERLOAD (OL) LED: Illuminates when the input signal is too high, indicating potential distortion. Adjust gain [32] or channel level [31] as needed.
• Channel 31: LEVEL: Adjusts the level of each channel in the main mix. "U" is unity gain. Turning up adds up to 20 dB.
• Channel 32: GAIN SWITCH: Sets initial input level based on source (Mic/Line). Push in (Low Gain) for line-level inputs (Ch 1-6). Pull out (High Gain) for mic-level inputs (all channels) or instrument-level inputs (Ch 5-6 Hi-Z).
• Channel 33: COMPRESSOR: In-line compressor on channels 1-4. Adjustable threshold (6:1 ratio, soft knee) to control dynamic range and prevent distortion.
• Channel 34: HI-Z SWITCH: For direct guitar/bass connection on channels 5 & 6.

Master Controls

• 35. POWER LED: Indicates power connection and switch status.
• 36. MAIN GRAPHIC EQ: 9-band graphic EQ for the main mix output. Affects line and speaker outputs.
• 37. FX TO MAIN: Adjusts the level of internal stereo effects added to the main mix.
• 38. MAIN LEVEL: Controls the overall level of the main mix, affecting meters, main outputs, and speaker outputs. Adjustment occurs before the main EQ [36].
• 39. 100 Hz FILTER: Reduces low-frequency rumble below 100 Hz on mono channels 1-6.
• 40. MAIN MIX METERS: 12-segment stereo meters showing main mix level after main level [38] and EQ [36]. OL LEDs indicate overload.
• 41. MONITOR 1 GRAPHIC EQ: 9-band graphic EQ for the Monitor 1 output. Affects line and speaker outputs.
• 42. FX TO MON 1: Adjusts the level of internal effects added to the mono Monitor 1 mix.
• 43. MONITOR 1 LEVEL: Controls the level of the Monitor 1 mix, affecting meters and outputs. Adjustment occurs before Monitor 1 EQ [41].
• 44. 100 Hz FILTER: Reduces low-frequency rumble below 100 Hz on the Monitor 1 mix.
• 45. MONITOR 1 METERS: Meters showing Monitor 1 mix level after Mon 1 level [43] and EQ [41]. OL LEDs indicate overload.
• 46. PHANTOM SWITCH: Engages +48V phantom power for all XLR microphone inputs.
• 47. PRECISION PASSIVE EQ: Switch to enhance clarity and low-frequency response for Mackie passive speakers (e.g., S215, C200z).
• 48. POWER AMP LIMITER LEDs: Indicate when the internal amplifier limiter is active due to overload or thermal issues.

Stereo Effects Processor

The PPM1008 features a 32-bit stereo effects processor with 24 presets, controlled via the FX/Mon 2 channel control [22]. Effects can be added to the main mix (FX to Main [37]) or monitor mix (FX to Mon 1 [42]).

• 49. MASTER FX/MON 2 SEND: Controls the input level to the internal effects processor. Adjust carefully to avoid overloading (indicated by SIG/OL LED [50]).
• 50. SIG/OL LED: Green (SIG) indicates optimal signal level; Red (OL) indicates overload.
• 51. FX SEND (POST)/MON 2 SEND (PRE) SWITCH: Selects whether the channel signal is sent after (POST) or before (PRE) the channel's level control. POST is for effects; PRE is for Monitor 2.
• 52. PRESET VISUALIZER: Displays the selected preset number.
• 53. PRESET SELECTOR, TAP DELAY, LED: Rotary control to select presets 1-24. The dial also functions as a tap tempo control for presets 17-24. Tap tempo requires two quick presses of the control. The LED flashes in time with the tap tempo.
• 54. INTERNAL FX MUTE SWITCH: Mutes the internal effects processor output. The footswitch connection [16] is disabled when this switch is engaged.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues, consult the following:

Channel Problems

• Check EQ settings.
• Verify Gain switch [32] setting.
• Ensure level is adequate.
• Check OL LED [30] status.
• Assess compressor settings [33] on channels 1-4.
• Confirm Hi-Z switches [34] are correctly set for guitars on channels 5 & 6.
• Disconnect devices in insert jacks.
• Try the same signal source on a different channel.
• Check if microphones require phantom power.

Output Problems

• Verify Main Level control [38] is up.
• Check if graphic EQs are reasonably set.
• Ensure FX mix level is not too high.
• If a speaker-level output is suspected, try disconnecting its counterpart (e.g., disconnect left Speakon if suspecting left 1/4" output).
• If a speaker appears dead, try connecting it to the opposite channel's output.
• Disconnect any devices from line-level outputs (main, sub, FX/Mon 2, Mon 1).

Noise

• Lower channel levels. If noise disappears when a channel is disconnected, the source is likely the issue.

Power

• Ensure the power LED [35] is on, indicating AC power and the switch are engaged. Check the power cord connection.

Servicing

For warranty service, refer to the warranty information on page 31. For non-warranty service, visit www.mackie.com/support to locate an authorized service center. You can also call Mackie Technical Support at 1-800-898-3211.

Appendices

Appendix B: Connections

XLR Connectors: Used for microphone inputs. Pin 1=Ground, Pin 2=Hot (+), Pin 3=Neutral (-).

1/4" TS Jacks: Tip-Sleeve, mono connections. Used for unbalanced signals like microphones, guitars, and line-level instruments.

1/4" TRS Jacks: Tip-Ring-Sleeve, stereo or balanced mono connections. Used for balanced mono signals (Tip=Hot, Ring=Neutral, Sleeve=Ground) or stereo signals (Tip=Left, Ring=Right, Sleeve=Ground).

RCA Connectors: Commonly used in hi-fi and video equipment. Electrically identical to 1/4" TS jacks. Connect signal to the center pin and ground to the surrounding "basket".

Speaker Cables

Use speaker cables with a minimum gauge appropriate for the length and impedance to minimize energy loss (less than 0.5 dB). Recommended gauges are listed in AWG and Metric WG tables.

Insert Jacks TRS Send/Return

1/4" TRS jacks that carry both send and return signals for effects loops. Tip=Send, Ring=Return, Sleeve=Ground.

Technical Specifications

Mackie reserves the right to change specifications without notice.

Dimensions

Physical dimensions of the Mackie PPM1008 mixer.

Weight: 26.0 lb (11.8 kg)

Product Disposal: This symbol indicates the product should not be disposed of with household waste. It must be handed over to an authorized collection site for recycling of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). Proper disposal helps prevent negative impacts on the environment and human health.

Warranty

This limited product warranty is provided by LOUD Technologies Inc. and applies to products purchased in the United States or Canada through an authorized distributor or reseller. For products purchased outside the US/Canada, visit www.mackie.com/warranty for local distributor contact information. LOUD warrants the product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use for the Warranty Period. For full terms and conditions, visit www.mackie.com/warranty.

Contact Information

Mackie Headquarters:
16220 Wood-Red Road NE, Woodinville, WA 98072, USA

Customer Support:
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: 425.487.4337

Website: www.mackie.com

Email: sales@mackie.com