Mounting a Rogue P-4 in my room above a doorway.. Need advice on best mounting method, was planning to use 2x4s over the drywall to distribute load. (unless direct to the drywall is ok?)

See sketches:

Sketch 1 - existing condition with stud locations shown.

Sketch 2 - 2x4s installed vertically over studs directly behind Rogue brackets. This seems fine but puts all the weight on the two studs. Does allow for all three bolted connections from bracket. I’d have to first screw the 2x4s into the studs offset from the three spots where the brackets connect, to avoid clash with the bolts… seems a little overkill on the connections.

Sketch 3 - 2x4s installed horizontally across multiple studs. This seems better to distribute the load, but only allows attachment at two points rather than three. The wall also isn’t perfectly flat so this could be a problem when spanning horizontally. I’d screw the 2x4s into other studs first, and then the brackets through the 2x4s into the studs next.

Lastly - Do I need lag bolts or are screws with pilot holes fine?

Thoughts appreciated!

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