- Mackie’s Thump V4 range includes 4 models: Thump12, Thump15, Thump15S, and Thump18S.
- More sound pressure (up to 132 dB SPL) and an extended low-frequency response.
- Updated electronics that are quieter at idle and still equipped with SoundCheck DSP.
- Bluetooth, pairing between two speakers, and control via the Thump Connect 2 app.
At Woodbrass, we’ve seen Thump speakers come through for years: they are among the most sought-after powered speakers for mobile DJs, touring bands, and event providers. When Mackie announces a new V4 generation, we take a close look at what really changes in the field. Spoiler: this update focuses on the essentials—more output, more low end, and cleaner sound. Let’s take a complete look at the range, with all 4 new models broken down.
Thump V4: what has changed from the previous generation
Mackie has clearly designed this V4 around a simple motto: louder, deeper, more precise. In practical terms, the new Thump models gain a few decibels of sound pressure and reach lower into the frequency spectrum. At a gig, that means a more present kick, better-grounded bass, and more comfortable headroom as the venue fills up.
The electronics have also been redesigned to be quieter at idle. The new V4 models are noticeably less noisy when there is no signal. For conferences, acoustic concerts, or quieter moments in a DJ set, that is a real advantage.
The V4 includes all the features of the older XT versions: Bluetooth, pairing between two speakers with app control (zone or stereo mode), Outdoor mode, 4 EQ presets, feedback suppression, and Music Ducking.
The Thump12 V4 is a 2-way active speaker with 700 W RMS (1400 W peak) Class D amplification, featuring a 12" woofer and a 1" high-temperature polymer compression driver. It delivers up to 129 dB SPL max and reaches down to 39 Hz (at -10 dB), providing present low end in a compact format.
Its digitally controlled 3-channel mixer includes 2 XLR/1/4" combo inputs and a 3.5 mm mini-jack input. The XLR Mix Out, which includes the Bluetooth signal, lets you daisy-chain another speaker via cable.
The SoundCheck DSP offers 4 EQ presets, an outdoor mode, Feedback Eliminator, and Music Ducking. Bluetooth enables stereo or dual-zone playback via the Thump Connect 2 app. With its 40° angled cabinet, handles, and 35 mm pole mount, it adapts to every setting: front-of-house, stage monitor, or permanent installation via M10 fly points.
The Thump12 V4 is probably the most versatile model in the range. Its 12-inch format is ideal for mobile setups: DJ sets in bars or clubs, sound reinforcement for bands in small venues, conferences, and entertainment events. You can set it up in minutes, connect your sources, and you are ready to play.
Its 129 dB SPL max and response down to 39 Hz are more than enough for most gigs. And with its 40° angled cabinet, you can position it as a stage monitor whenever the setup calls for it.
The Thump15 V4 uses the same architecture as the 12-inch model, but with a 15" woofer that brings more fullness to the lower end of the spectrum. 700 W RMS (1400 W peak) Class D amplification, up to 130 dB SPL max, and frequency response down to 34 Hz (at -10 dB).
The connectivity follows the same philosophy: a digital 3-channel mixer, 2 XLR/1/4" combo inputs, a 3.5 mm mini-jack, and an XLR Mix Out for daisy-chaining. The SoundCheck DSP includes 4 presets, Feedback Eliminator, Music Ducking, and indoor/outdoor mode.
Stereo Bluetooth lets you pair two Thump V4 speakers for stereo or dual-zone playback, controlled via the Thump Connect 2 app (volume, EQ, voicings, user memories). A 40° angled cabinet for wedge use, carry handles, a 35 mm pole mount, and M10 fly points for permanent installation.
The Thump15 V4 is the obvious choice when you want more low-end presence without moving up to a different product category. Moving to a 15-inch woofer naturally provides more weight for amplified vocals, keyboards, DI bass, and contemporary music with plenty of sub content.
It is the ideal candidate for band front-of-house, a main DJ speaker, or sound reinforcement in medium-sized venues. It gains 1 dB of SPL and reaches 5 Hz lower than its little sister, which makes a real difference on the dance floor.
Remember to use the Thump Connect 2 app to save your settings from one gig to the next. You can prepare a “Bar” preset, a “Wedding” preset, and a “Live” preset, then recall them on-site in seconds. A major time-saver.
The Thump15S V4 is a powered subwoofer equipped with a 15" woofer and 700 W RMS (1400 W peak) Class D amplification. It delivers up to 132 dB SPL max and reaches down to 27 Hz (at -10 dB) for deep, impactful bass.
The adjustable stereo crossover offers dedicated Thump12, Thump15, and ThumpGo modes, plus a variable mode for adapting the crossover to any top speakers. Polarity inversion and mono/stereo mode let you optimize integration for the venue.
Connectivity includes 2 XLR inputs, 2 filtered XLR outputs, and 2 full-range XLR outputs for clean wiring and professional integration. An M20 pole mount, plywood enclosure, and integrated handles: it is built for the road. Just 26 kg for a 15" sub.
Let’s be clear: once you turn up the volume or the music calls for sub, two tops alone are no longer enough. The Thump15S V4 fills that gap exactly. 132 dB SPL max and extension down to 27 Hz: you immediately feel the difference on kick drums, synth bass lines, and electronic kicks.
Its advantage: preset crossover modes for Thump12, Thump15, and ThumpGo. Select the mode that matches your top speakers, and the crossover is set automatically. If you use other speakers, variable mode lets you adjust it manually.
The Thump18S V4 is the big brother of the 15S: a powered 18-inch subwoofer designed for gigs that require real sub-bass weight. 700 W RMS (1400 W peak) Class D amplification, 132 dB SPL max, and response down to 25 Hz (at -10 dB).
It follows the same crossover logic as the 15S: Thump12, Thump15, and ThumpGo modes, plus variable mode. Polarity inversion, mono/stereo mode, 2 XLR inputs, 2 filtered XLR outputs, and 2 full-range XLR outputs provide flexible integration into any setup.
The 18" format adds that extra fullness essential for event gigs or high-energy parties, where you want to feel the bass in the room. M20 pole mount, plywood enclosure, and integrated carry handles. It weighs 31.9 kg and measures 541 × 630 × 605 mm.
With its 18-inch woofer, the Thump18S V4 is aimed at gigs where you need to fill the room. Sub-heavy styles (electronic music, hip-hop, modern pop) gain a foundation that top speakers alone cannot provide. And when the audience absorbs part of the energy, you retain comfortable headroom to avoid clipping.
The format remains reasonable for an 18-inch model: 31.9 kg. With its integrated handles and plywood enclosure, it takes back-to-back gigs in stride.
For a cohesive system, we recommend pairing a Thump15 V4 pair with a Thump15S V4 for medium-sized DJ and live gigs. If you are aiming for higher-energy events or larger spaces, the Thump18S V4 will provide that essential extra sub-bass. And do not forget: a properly adjusted subwoofer puts less strain on your top speakers and improves the overall clarity of the mix.
How do you choose between the different Thump V4 models?
Your choice mainly depends on how you use them and the scale of your gigs. Here are the main guidelines to help you decide:
- Thump12 V4: lightweight mobile setups, small venues, entertainment events, conferences.
- Thump15 V4: band front-of-house, DJ sets in bars/clubs, medium-sized venues, more low-end fullness.
- Thump15S V4: compact low-end reinforcement for medium-sized DJ and live gigs.
- Thump18S V4: event gigs, high-energy parties, large venues, sub-demanding styles.
FAQ – Everything you need to know about the Mackie Thump V4 range
What is the main difference between Thump V4 and the older Thump XT models?
The Thump V4 models offer more sound pressure and extended frequency response (deeper low-end extension). The electronics have been redesigned to be quieter at idle. All XT features are retained: Bluetooth, pairing, Outdoor mode, EQ presets, Feedback Eliminator, and Music Ducking.
Should you choose the Thump12 V4 or the Thump15 V4?
The Thump12 V4 is more compact and versatile, ideal for lightweight mobile setups. The Thump15 V4 provides more low-end fullness (down to 34 Hz versus 39 Hz) and 1 dB more SPL. Choose it if you provide sound for bands or DJ sets in medium-sized venues.
Can a Thump V4 be used as a stage monitor?
Yes. The Thump12 V4 and Thump15 V4 feature a 40° angled cabinet that allows them to be used as wedges. The built-in Feedback Eliminator also helps limit the risk of feedback in sensitive setups.
How do you pair a Thump15S or Thump18S subwoofer with top speakers?
Both subwoofers offer preset crossover modes (Thump12, Thump15, ThumpGo) that automatically adapt the crossover point to your top speakers. If you use other speakers, variable mode lets you adjust the crossover manually for a custom integration.
Is the Thump Connect 2 app essential?
No, but it is very practical. Thump Connect 2 (iOS and Android) gives you full control over mixing, EQ, voicings, and user memories. Ideal when the speaker is elevated or pole-mounted, and for recalling settings from one gig to the next.
Mackie Thump V4: an update that focuses on what matters
The brand improves what counts: more output, more low end, quieter electronics, and a cohesive range from 12-inch models to 18-inch subs. Whether you're a mobile DJ, a touring musician, or a sound provider, you'll find the combination in this range that fits your needs. Now it's your turn: discover the Mackie Thump V4 range at Woodbrass and find the setup that will get your next gig shaking.
