Although the slightly subtle sound of the larger Mackie MC-250 headphones were less tiring during long listening sessions, the greater liveliness and agility of the MC-150s are simply more stirring in the end. What’s even nicer is that you get all the listening pleasure for a very affordable price that makes the purchase decision really easy. In the price range below one hundred euros, the new Mackies get a first class recommendation from me.
The same as their new in-ear series, which includes the standard (CR-Buds) as well as a higher-priced model, the Over-Ear series starts with two models: MC-150 and MC-250. This time we’ll deal with the “smaller” model, which – let me tell you this much – is in no way inferior to its big brother… in fact, it’s quite the opposite.
Technical
The starting point of the MC-150 headphones’ sound presentation are 50-millimetre drivers that compete with the amplifier at 32 Ohms. They offer an input sensitivity of 86 dB per milliwatt and a frequency response ranging from 8 Hz to 20 kHz.
Exteriors
The package includes a straight, 3-metre long connection cable, which is plugged into the socket of the left auricle and locked with a 90-degree turn. The connecting cable ends in a stereo mini-jack and, if required, this can be adapted to the standard jack using the adapter supplied. The headphones themselves are made completely of plastic, which is the reason for the moderate weight of 300 grammes. Both ear cups can be folded inwards for transport. Apart from the silver Mackie logo, there are no conspicuous features on the black headphones. The only difference to the 250 is the silver circle on the back of the drivers. The finish, however, isn’t particularly smooth here either. This can be seen in particular in details such as the size adjustment, where the boom slides into the headband with a little bit of a “plastic” feel. This doesn’t interrupt the function – it just doesn’t seem very elegant.
Sound
Wow – what Mackie produces in your ears for just eighty euros is sensationally good. Across the entire spectrum, the 150s work with an impressive liveliness and agility; the music literally jumps out of your earcups. Everything sounds punchy and crunchy, which is especially due to the excellent resolution of the height display. The bass range is also stable and robust – not too much, not too little, but absolutely right. All in all, the MC-150s provide a lot of information for the ear across the entire spectrum, which is why they cannot necessarily be classified in the workaday headphones category. However, the MC-150 headphones are excellent tools when it comes to accurately judging the music, capturing every detail, adjusting reverberation chambers and making mix decisions. Thanks to the good external noise shielding, the MC-150s are not only suitable for the studio, but also cut a fine figure in the DJ booth.
Handling
With their lively sound, the MC-150 headphones are, of course, also suitable for Hi-Fi enthusiasts. However, if you wear them for a long time, you will inevitably notice their closed design, which at some point will make your ears warm. The wearing comfort can be described as good. Even during long listening sessions, the thick ear cushions and the neat foamed headband do a lot to prevent pressure points.
Technical specifications
- Ear couplingOver-ear
- Typeclosed
- Transducer principledynamic
- Frequency response (headphones)15 - 20.000 hz
- Impedance32 ohms
- Weight with cable265 g
- Cable length300 cm
What's in the box
- 6.35 mm stereo jack
- Carrying pouch
The sound is mediocre; a bit too shrill and thin, specifically. Bigger problem is that after about only seven months, the cheap plastic is already starting to break. I will not be purchasing another one.
Plastic parts and faux leatherpads are the only weak parts of these relatively cheap headphones. The sound and stage width are pretty good for the price.
After a year, the cable was broken inside. Only sound on left ear. It looks like it is impossible to buy a new cable seperatly. Now the headset is useless.