Mackie DRM12A Users Manual
DRM12A
2000W 12" Arrayable Powered Loudspeaker
OWNER’S MANUAL
Important Safety Instructions
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Minimum distance (5 cm) around the apparatus for sucient ventilation.
The ventilation should not be impeded by covering the ventilation openings
with items, such as newspapers, table-cloths, curtains, etc.
9. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
10. No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed
on the apparatus.
11. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug.
A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type
plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third
prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your
outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
12. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
13. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
14. 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.
15. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when
unused for long periods of time.
16. Refer all servicing to qualified service 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.
17. This apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing, and no object filled
with liquids, such as vases or beer glasses, shall be placed on the apparatus.
DRM12A 2000W 12" Arrayable Powered Loudspeaker
18. Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in a risk
of fire or electric shock.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK! DO NOT OPEN!
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT
REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral
triangle is intended to alert the user to the prescence of uninsulated
“dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure, that may be of
significant magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended
to alert the user of the prescence of important operating and
maintaining (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying
the appliance.
WARNING — To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not
expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
CAUTION — To prevent electric shock hazard, do not connect
to mains power supply while grille is removed.
PORTABLE CART
WARNING
19. This apparatus has been designed with Class-I construction and
must be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing
connection (the third grounding prong).
20. The AC Mains PowerCon® connector (the appliance coupler) is used
as the disconnect device. This connector shall remain readily accessible
and operable.
21. The use of apparatus is in tropical and/or moderate climates.
22. NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits
for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 5 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy
and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation
of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference
in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his
own expense.
WARNING: Operation of DRM2A in a residential environment could cause
radio interference.
CAUTION: Changes or modifications to this device not expressly approved
by LOUD Audio, LLC could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment
under FCC rules.
23. This apparatus does not exceed the Class A/Class B (whichever
is applicable) limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus
as set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department
of Communications.
ATTENTION
— Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits
radioélectriques dépassant las limites applicables aux appareils
numériques de class A/de class B (selon le cas) prescrites dans
le réglement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par les ministere
des communications du Canada.
24. Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent hearing loss.
Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss,
but nearly everyone will lose some hearing if exposed to suciently intense
noise for a period of time. The U.S. Government’s Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) has specified the permissible noise level
exposures shown in the following chart.
According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of these permissible limits
could result in some hearing loss. To ensure against potentially dangerous
exposure to high sound pressure levels, it is recommended that all persons
exposed to equipment capable of producing high sound pressure levels
use hearing protectors while the equipment is in operation. Ear plugs or
protectors in the ear canals or over the ears must be worn when operating
the equipment in order to prevent permanent hearing loss if exposure is in
excess of the limits set forth here:
Duration, per
day in hours
8 90 Duo in small club
6 92
4 95 Subway Train
3 97
2 00 Very loud classical music
.5 02
05 Matt screaming at Troy about deadlines
0.5 0
0.25 or less 5 Loudest parts at a rock concert
Sound Level dBA,
Slow Response
Typical Example
Laite on liitettävä suojakoskettimilla varustettuun pistorasiaan.
Apparatet må tilkoples jordet stikkontakt.
Apparaten skall anslutas till jordat uttag.
Correct disposal of this product: This symbol indicates that this product should not be disposed of with your household waste, according to the WEEE directive (202/9/EU)
and your national law. This product should be handed over to an authorized collection site for recycling waste electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). Improper handling of this type of waste
could have a possible negative impact on the environment and human health due to potentially hazardous substances that are generally associated with EEE. At the same time, your cooperation
in the correct disposal of this product will contribute to the eective usage of natural resources. For more information about where you can drop o your waste equipment for recycling, please
contact your local city oce, waste authority, or your household waste disposal service.
2
DRM12A 2000W 12" Arrayable Powered Loudspeaker
Installation should only be done by experienced, licensed
professionals. Improper installation may result in damage
to the equipment, injury or death.
Contents Features
Owner’s Manual
Important Safety Instructions ........................................... 2
Contents / Features ............................................................ 3
Introduction ........................................................................ 4
Getting Started ................................................................... 5
Hookup Diagrams ............................................................... 6
DRM2A Loudspeaker: Rear Panel Features ...................3
. AC In Jack ...............................................................3
2. AC Thru Jack ..........................................................3
3. AC Thru Circuit Breaker .........................................3
4. XLR Input ................................................................4
5. XLR Output .............................................................4
6. LCD Display ............................................................4
7. Speaker Control Knob ............................................4
8 and 9. Dual-Angle Pole Cup ....................................4
DRM Control Dashboard™ ................................................5
Main .............................................................................5
Array Mode..................................................................6
Sub ..............................................................................6
EQ Setup ......................................................................7
Delay ............................................................................8
Configuration ..............................................................9
Array Usage ....................................................................... 22
Floor Mounting .......................................................... 22
Protection Circuitry .......................................................... 23
Limiting ...................................................................... 23
Overexcursion Protection ......................................... 23
Thermal Protection ................................................... 23
AC Power ........................................................................... 23
Care and Maintenance ..................................................... 23
Rigging ............................................................................. 24
Room Acoustics ................................................................ 26
• High-eciency 2000W Class-D amplifier oers ample
headroom for professional applications
o Universal power supply (00-240 VAC) with Power Factor
Correction technology ensures consistent performance
even with unstable AC power
o Next-gen protection circuitry keeps transducers safe
and ensures peak performance in all applications
• Advanced Impulse™ DSP module
o Precision crossovers and transducer time-alignment
deliver reference quality sound that is consistent
throughout the frequency range
o Cutting-edge FIR Filtering technology drastically reduces
inherent anomalies, phase issues, and muddy midrange
resulting in crystal clear sound
• DRM Control Dashboard™ features a high-contrast full
color display for easy single-knob access to configuration,
processing, and more
o View current EQ and voicing mode, high-resolution
metering, and more from a single overview window
o Preset array configuration settings make setup easy
with modes for cabinet, 2 cabinets, 3-4 cabinets
with long throw option, and independent Sub option
w/ variable crossover
o Adjustable 3-band parametric EQ allows for additional
customization and tuning for your application and venue
o Alignment Delay control for delay stacks
o Save and recall up to 6 user presets for various
applications and venues
o Screensaver plus dimmer and contrast control
o System lock with 4-digit passcode
• Parallel XLR Input and Output
• Premium components and cabinet design
o Road-worthy 5mm plywood construction and internal
bracing oers optimal acoustic performance with
a touring-grade textured coating and powder-coated
heavy gauge steel grille
o Unique ported design provides exceptionally smooth
yet punchy low frequency response while providing cool
air to the internal amplifier
o Triple " Titanium diaphragm compression driver array
is perfectly matched to the amplifier for maximum
clarity and eciency
o 2" high-excursion woofer oers minimal distortion
with increased bass response and reliability to withstand
the most demanding live applications
Appendix A: Service Information ..................................... 27
Appendix B: Technical Information .................................28
DRM2A Frequency Graph ........................................29
DRM2A Dimensions ................................................. 29
DRM2A Block Diagram ............................................ 30
Limited Warranty ...............................................................3
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• Versatile configuration options
o Dual-angle pole mount
o Flyable with up to 4 DRM2A cabinets and 2 DRM8S
subwoofers using the FB00 Fly Bar
o 7 x M0 flypoints
o Integrated flying hardware
o Optional FB00 Fly Bar
• Max SPL: 35 dB
• Coverage: 20˚V x 0˚H
• 55.0 lb / 24.9 kg
Watch our dang videos
Owner’s Manual
3
Introduction
The DRM2A 2000W 2" Arrayable Powered Loudspeaker
delivers class-leading power via an ultra-ecient Class-D
amplifier with next-gen protection and Power Factor
Correction technology for peak performance when you need
it.
Advanced Impulse™ DSP provides acoustic correction
and time-alignment via precision tuned FIR filters for crystal
clear, punchy sound typically experienced only with massive
touring systems. The DRM Control Dashboard™ features
a high-contrast, full-color display for quick access to EQ,
voicing modes and more.
A custom high-excursion 2" woofer and three " compression
drivers housed in the texture coated 5mm plywood cabinet
are designed for consistent performance in the most
demanding applications. The DRM2A is perfect for clubs,
houses of worship, rental systems and more.
While traditional point-and-shoot systems are great for
venues such as coee houses and small clubs, they do not
have the output or throw to cover larger venues. In order to
compensate, venues ofen combine loudspeakers to get more
output and cover more ground. The problem is that the output
of these traditional loudspeakers overlap and interfere. This
interference is both constructive and destructive; it varies
depending upon the listening position. For many, what they
hear is less than desirable, and for no one it is exactly the
same.
DRM12A 2000W 12" Arrayable Powered Loudspeaker
A line array solves this problem by eectively channeling
these interferences, directing the sound where it is desired,
and removing it from where it is not. Today, line arrays are
the loudspeaker format of choice for high-profile tours and
large installs worldwide. Unlike traditional point-and-shoot
systems, line arrays excel at providing high output, long throw
and directional coverage with good vertical pattern control –
all in a package that is highly configurable and scalable.
But what is a line array system and how does it work? In
its simplest form, a line array is a group of closely spaced
loudspeakers arranged in a straight line. They are designed
such that constructive interference occurs in front of the
array of loudspeakers and destructive interference occurs
at the top and bottom. This is the highly desirable vertical
directivity for which line arrays are known.
However, one shouldn’t place just any ‘ol loudspeaker in a
line and expect to get increased output and better pattern
control. In order to get good vertical pattern control, a line
array must be designed so the transducers are positioned as
close together as possible. More specifically, the separation
between the transducers must be less than the wavelengths
emitted by them. This is easy to achieve for lower frequencies
with long wavelengths (e.g. kHz is equal to 3.56 inches),
but much more dicult with higher frequencies (e.g. 0
kHz is equal to only .32 inches). Line arrays achieve this
tight spacing by using multiple drivers and more complex
mechanical designs. Even then, it isn’t practical to place
drivers only an inch apart. Therefore, additional acoustical
magic is employed in the horn design to flatten the
output of the high frequency wave fronts so they combine
constructively. The result is high output and even
coverage.
Well, if line arrays are so awesome, why even use traditional
loudspeakers any more? Simply because line arrays aren’t
perfect for all situations. A line array is best-suited to
applications where broad horizontal coverage is desired
throughout a given space, combined with long-throw and
higher output. Small venues don’t always need the added size
and output of a line array, and many meeting rooms, halls
and restaurants are better served by distributed systems
comprised of many small point-and-shoot loudspeakers.
Plus, the added cost for the more complex acoustical and
mechanical design of a line array puts them out of reach of
many customers...until now. The Mackie DRM2A brings this
technology to you at a price point never seen before.
The DRM2A is a constant curvature line array. This means
that the physical angle of the loudspeaker matches the
acoustical angle. There is only one way to rig together
multiple DRM2As, so it’s easy to use. As more units are
added, the array provides additional vertical coverage (plus
more vertical directivity at lower frequencies) and, of course,
it’s louder. DRM2A’s integrated rigging makes it perfect for
use in large permanent installs, tours and festivals where the
system is flown, or as a high-output pole-mounted portable
PA. The DRM2A is as versatile as your shows and will scale
to fit your needs like no other system anywhere else.
There is a lot to digest, so grab a coee, cozy up into your
favorite chair and learn all there is to know about your new
DRM2A system.
THE EVER-IMPORTANT INSTALLATION WARNING
WARNING: DRM2A loudspeakers are
a wonderful tool when utilized in installed
and portable PA systems. However, improper
installation may result in damage to the equipment, injury
or even death. Therefore, installation should only be done
by experienced, licensed professionals to ensure that
the loudspeakers are installed in a stable and secure way
in order to avoid any conditions that may be dangerous
for persons or structures.
4
DRM12A 2000W 12" Arrayable Powered Loudspeaker
How to Use This Manual:
Owner’s Manual
Things to Remember:
Afer this introduction, a getting started guide will help
you get things set up fast. The hookup diagrams show
some typical DRM2A loudspeaker setups.
This icon marks information that is critically
important or unique! For your own good, read and
remember them...it is a good idea to pay special
attention to these areas in the Owner’s Manual
marked with the “VERY IMPORTANT” hand icon.
There’s an illustration of a microscope,
so, of course, you’re going to get more
detailed information when you see this little
guy. There are explanations of features
and practical tips listed here.
It’s a good idea to pay attention to text displayed
next to a note icon, as this icon draws attention
to certain features and functions relating to the
usage of the DRM2A.
Getting Started
• Never listen to loud music for prolonged periods. Please see
the Safety Instructions on page 2 for information on hearing
protection.
• As a general guide, the mixer (or other signal source should
be turned on first, subwoofer next, and DRM2A loudspeakers
last. As such, the DRM2A loudspeakers should also be
turned o first, followed by the subwoofer, then the mixer.
This will reduce the possibility of any turn-on or turn-o
thumps and other noises generated by any upstream
equipment from coming out of the speakers.
• Save the shipping boxes and packing materials! You may
need them someday. Besides, the cats will love playing
in them and jumping out at you unexpectedly. Remember
to pretend like you are surprised!
• Save your sales receipt in a safe place.
The following steps will help you set up the DRM2A quickly.
. Make all initial connections with the power switches
OFF on all equipment. Make sure the master volume, level
and gain controls are all the way down.
2. If using a subwoofer, connect the outputs from
the mixing console (or other signal source) to the inputs
on the rear panel of the subwoofer, then connect the high
pass outputs from the subwoofer to the inputs of the DRM2A
loudspeakers. Make sure the subwoofer’s gain knob is
set to “U” (unity gain).
3. If not using a subwoofer, connect the outputs
from the mixing console (or other signal source)
to the inputs on the rear panel of the DRM2A loudspeakers.
4. Push the line cord securely into the subwoofer’s
IEC connectors and plug the other ends into grounded
AC outlets. The subwoofer may accept the appropriate
voltage as indicated near the IEC connector.
5. Turn the mixer (or other signal source) on.
6. Turn the subwoofer on.
7. Push the AC mains cord securely into the DRM2A
loudspeaker’s AC In Neutrik PowerCon® jack, then twist
/4 turn clockwise to lock. Plug the other end into the AC
mains supply receptacle.
8. Set the gain on the DRM2A (and all other DRM boxes)
to unity. Volume will be controlled via the mixer.
Please write the serial numbers here for future reference
(i.e., insurance claims, tech support, return authorization,
make dad proud, etc.)
Purchased at:
Date of purchase:
9. Start the signal source and raise the mixer’s main
L/R fader up to a comfortably loud listening level.
Owner’s Manual
5
Hookup Diagrams
AC IN
100-240V
50-60 Hz 1400W
(175W WITHOUT
AC THRU LOAD)
DRM12A 2000W 12" Arrayable Powered Loudspeaker
INPUT
OUTPUT
INPUT
OUTPUT
INPUT
OUTPUT
AC THRU
CIRCUIT BREAKER
PUSH TO RESET
AC THRU
100-240V
1250W MAX
AC IN
100-240V
50-60 Hz 1400W
(175W WITHOUT
AC THRU LOAD)
AC THRU
CIRCUIT BREAKER
PUSH TO RESET
AC THRU
100-240V
1250W MAX
AC IN
100-240V
50-60 Hz 1400W
(175W WITHOUT
AC THRU LOAD)
AC THRU
CIRCUIT BREAKER
PUSH TO RESET
AC THRU
100-240V
1250W MAX
One convenient feature of the Mackie DRM2A loudspeaker system is the ability to connect multiple loudspeakers together
easily, as shown in the illustration above.
If only one DRM2A is required, connect the mixer output to the DRM2A’s input using a balanced XLR cable. The DRM2A
is powered via the supplied Neutrik PowerCon® cable connected to the AC IN jack. See the following page for details on this
type of setup.
If multiple DRM2As will be connected, start with the instructions as listed above. Next, connect the first DRM2A’s thru jack
to the second DRM2A’s input jack using a balanced XLR cable. A short -2 foot cable is all that is necessary. Hook up the
supplied loop Neutrik PowerCon® cable from the first DRM2A’s AC Thru jack to the second DRM2A’s AC In jack. A maximum
of four DRM2As may be daisy-chained together in this fashion from a single 20A source.
See pages 9-2 for systems utilizing multiple DRM2As in various setups. See page 3 for more information regarding
powering the Mackie DRM2A loudspeaker.
Daisy-Chaining Multiple DRM2A Loudspeakers
6
DRM12A 2000W 12" Arrayable Powered Loudspeaker
Hookup Diagrams continued...
Owner’s Manual
This type of setup will typically be found at small indoor or outdoor gigs, weddings, parades, rental systems, and/or used
as vocal reinforcement. Another possibility is to place DRM2As on the stage as front or side fills. This helps provide sound
to the fans near the stage where they may not be adequately covered by the PA.
The outputs from a mixer feed the inputs of a pair of DRM2A loudspeakers. Since only two DRM2As are used, the array
mode should be set to dual on both speakers and the subwoofer HPF set to o.
2-Way System
Owner’s Manual
7
Hookup Diagrams continued...
SPM400 Pole Mount
DRM12A 2000W 12" Arrayable Powered Loudspeaker
This type of setup will typically be found at small indoor or outdoor gigs, festivals, weddings, or parades where a high
output PA with wide coverage and throw is necessary. This is a great setup for local DIY bands, too.
In this example, the lef output from a mixer feeds the ch. input of a Mackie DRM8S powered subwoofer. The ch.
high-pass output of the subwoofer feeds the input of a Mackie DRM2A powered loudspeaker. The DRM2As reproduce
the mid-to-high frequencies in mono, and the subs provide the low frequencies in mono. Here the array mode should
be set to single position and the subwoofer HPF to DRM Sub. Or set it to Var if not using the DRM8S.
It is possible to reproduce this exact same hookup in stereo for even wider (and louder) dispersion. Simply utilize the lef and
right main outputs from the mixer to feed the main inputs of each subwoofer and mirror the rest of the system as identified
above. Heck, you could even add an additional pair DRM2A loudspeakers for greater coverage. Lots of possibilities!
Another important aspect to keep in mind is the rigging setup of loudspeakers. In this diagram, the DRM2As are
pole-mounted on a subwoofer, utilizing an SPM400 adjustable pole. Refer to page 22 to view a table listing other
configuration possibilities and pages 24-26 for more information about rigging.
Note that the DRM2As AC power may be linked via the AC Thru. Refer to page 6 for details on daisy-chaining AC power.
*If using a DRM8S subwoofer, set the crossover to DRM Top to match the DRM2A.
Single pole-mounted DRM2A arrayable loudspeaker with single DRM8S subwoofer
8
DRM12A 2000W 12" Arrayable Powered Loudspeaker
Hookup Diagrams continued...
Owner’s Manual
FB100 Flybar
This is the perfect setup for any venue where the audience is level with and above the stage. For example, a bowl, a shed
or a gym with bleachers.
The lef output from a mixer feeds the input of a Mackie DRM2A powered loudspeaker. The output of that Mackie DRM2A
feeds the input of the next Mackie DRM2A. This daisy-chained array is repeated once more to complete the tri-fecta.
Since three units are used, the array mode should be set to either 3-4 or 3-4 long and the subwoofer HPF set to o.
See page 6 for more information about the array mode and the choices available.
It is possible to reproduce this exact same hookup in stereo. Simply utilize the lef and right main outputs from the mixer
to feed the main inputs of the first DRM2A on each side of the stage and mirror the rest of the system as described above.
Another important aspect to keep in mind is the rigging setup of loudspeakers. In this diagram, the DRM2As are ground
stacked on the FB00 Flybar and the kickstand is included for additional support. This may be a full-range system
(as illustrated above) or add some DRM8S subwoofers to the system for extra thump. You could even mount the DRM2As
on top of the sub as shown on the next page. Refer to page 22 to view a table listing other configuration possibilities and
pages 24-26 for more information about rigging.
Note that the DRM2As AC power may be linked via the AC Thru. Refer to page 6 for details on daisy-chaining AC power.
Ground-stacked with FB00 Flybar Accessory
Owner’s Manual
9
Hookup Diagrams continued...
FKDRM18S Flyware Kit
DRM12A 2000W 12" Arrayable Powered Loudspeaker
Similar to the hook-up diagram on the previous page, this is the perfect setup for any venue where the audience is level
with and sloping upward from the stage and PA. For example, a bowl, a shed or a gym with bleachers. However, a DRM8S
subwoofer is introduced to this setup, adding a lot more thump to the system.
The lef output from a mixer feeds the ch. input of a Mackie DRM8S powered subwoofer. The ch. high-pass output
of the subwoofer feeds the input of a Mackie DRM2A powered loudspeaker. The output of that Mackie DRM2A powered
loudspeaker feeds the input of the next Mackie DRM2A powered loudspeaker. The DRM2As reproduce the mid-to-high
frequencies in mono, and the sub provides the low frequencies in mono. Since three DRM2As are used, the array mode
should be set to the 3-4 or 3-4 long position and the subwoofer HPF to DRM Sub. Or set it to Var if not using the DRM8S.
It is possible to reproduce this exact same hookup in stereo. Simply utilize the lef and right main outputs from the mixer
to feed the ch. input of each DRM8S and mirror the rest of the system as described above.
Another important aspect to keep in mind is the rigging setup of loudspeakers. In this diagram, the DRM2As are ground
stacked on a DRM8S subwoofer utilizing the FKDRM8S flyware kit. This system may also be flown utilizing the FB00
Flybar, with the DRM8S powered subwoofer on top. See the next two pages for flying DRM2As, page 22 to view a table
listing other configuration possibilities and pages 24-26 for more information about rigging.
10
Note that the DRM2A’s AC power may be linked via the AC Thru. Refer to page 6 for details on daisy-chaining AC power.
Three ground-stacked DRM2A arrayable loudspeakers with single DRM8S
DRM12A 2000W 12" Arrayable Powered Loudspeaker
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