About the Mackie FB100 Flybar for DRM12A/DRM12A-P & DRM18S/DRM18S-P
The Mackie FB100 Flybar is a specialized rigging accessory designed to facilitate the safe and secure overhead suspension of compatible Mackie powered loudspeakers and subwoofers in permanent installation or touring applications. This engineered aluminum bar serves as a load-bearing frame that attaches to the rigging points on the top of a speaker cabinet, providing a centralized and stable lifting point for connection to chain hoists, motorized rigging systems, or fixed ceiling mounts. Its primary purpose is to convert a single speaker into a "flyable" unit, enabling it to be hung in arrays or as individual elements above stages, in clubs, or in houses of worship, thereby optimizing sightlines and acoustic coverage while freeing up valuable floor space. The design emphasizes safety, with a robust construction and secure attachment method that distributes the load appropriately across the speaker's reinforced rigging hardware.
The Flybar is precision-machined to match the specific rigging point geometry and weight capacity of supported Mackie models, such as the DRM12A and DRM18S series. It typically features multiple attachment holes that align with the speakers' M10 threaded inserts, and it is secured using high-grade steel mounting hardware included with the bar. The central lifting point is a forged steel eyebolt or a dedicated link plate rated for the speaker's total weight, providing a reliable interface for the rigging shackle. The bar's length is calculated to provide optimal balance when the speaker is suspended, preventing unwanted tilt and ensuring the cabinet hangs in its intended orientation. This careful engineering is crucial for maintaining the safety of both the equipment and the people below.
Installation requires following strict rigging protocols and should only be performed by qualified personnel. The FB100 is part of a comprehensive system that includes the speaker's inherent rigging points, which are designed to handle the stresses of suspension. By offering a manufacturer-approved solution for overhead mounting, this flybar extends the versatility of Mackie's powered speakers into vertical space, allowing system designers and integrators to create clean, professional audio installations that meet both acoustic and aesthetic goals without compromising on safety or reliability.