800RB+Cab or MB212

nanookofnj · #1 11-15-2010, 03:50 PM

Unfortunately, my old 800RB is heading to CA for service and my 2x12 and another 1x15 were put out of commission (apparently) by that head. Playing thru an old 300W Fender 1x15 combo right now that's completely suspect.

Will it serve me better to get a new 800RB and cabinet or is the MB212 combo a good alternative? Tone and power wise specifically. Obviously the latter is more cost effective.

If it's a new 800RB, how are those 2x12 MB cabs? I don't see too many other GK cabs that are 4 ohms. Any suggestions for cabs (< $500) that match nicely to the 800RB appreciated as well. Not interested in tweeters or slapping. Looking for a deep round sound.

Thanks in advance. Nanook

lbwdog · #2 11-15-2010, 05:25 PM

If you specifically would like a combo, then go with the MB 212.
But if it was me, I'd get the new MB Fusion; 500 watts, all tube preamp, 4 lbs., and pair it with a cab such as a fEarful 15/6. If you can't wait for a fEarful to be built, then find a ready made cab you like. I'd go for the G-K Neo 212 over the MBE212 cause it's geared more toward the pro player.

Kael · #3 11-15-2010, 05:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lbwdog

I'd go for the G-K Neo 212 over the MBE212 cause it's geared more toward the pro player.

On what are you basing this statement?

lbwdog · #4 11-15-2010, 07:09 PM

Heavier duty construction, internal bracing/damping, bi-ampable (with G-K's HMS system).

They do use the same woofer drivers, so the difference is admittedly slight.

Also, if you choose not to go with the micro head, a 700RB II would be a great unit too. I actually got one while my Katrina damaged 800RB was being repaired and use it on 99% of my gigs now.

jeff7bass · #5 11-15-2010, 08:55 PM

I'd stick with the GK head and add a decent cab. Avatar B212 NEO is very solid for the money. Why do you need a new head if yours is getting fixed? It's always a good idea to have a backup of course, I just don't see the need for spending that much on a new 800RB when you've got one already. Carvin's BX500 is going for 399.00 brand new. Bang for buck right there.

Bart277 · #6 11-16-2010, 04:28 AM

My 800RB stopped working a while back and I couldn't get it fixed in time for our next gig so I brought a new GK 1001RB-II which is a awesome head, but I only just got the 800RB repaired and used it last night for the first time and I find it better then the 1001RB-II. I run 2 x SWR Goliath III 4x10's, I couldn't wish for a better sound! even with just 1 x SWR 4x10's its more then enough.

lbwdog · #7 11-16-2010, 04:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bart277

I run 2 x SWR Goliath III 4x10's, I couldn't wish for a better sound! even with just 1 x SWR 4x10's its more then enough.

+1
SWR Goliath III sounds great with either my '87 800RB or 700RB II which is my primary rig now. The 800RB is my "home" head and goes on the road as a spare. Luckily, I have a crew that sets up that rig for me. My next purchase will be an MB Fusion for my "self carry" dates. It will power a Carvin LS1503, and will replace a MarkBass LMTube 800.

nanookofnj · #8 11-16-2010, 07:45 AM

Thanks to everyone for your responses. Yeah, I should have mentioned how much I love the tone of the 800RB. Kind of torn between getting a new one from RMC and using the old as a back up or just spending the 6 bills on the MB212 combo (allthough not a lot of love in this thread thus far). Would it be possilble to use the 2x12 section of the MB 212 combo with the fixed 800RB when it comes back or is the connection to the amp in the combo internal and unaccessable?

One other question. What's the best size rack case to use for the 800RB head? When I bought the 800RB 4 years ago, it came in a 3 space SKB road case which fit perfectly. I know there's no fan on those untils, so wondering if the 3 space was too tight for the head which may have caused these negative effects? Is a little 'breathing room' in order going forward? Thanks again guys.

dogofgod · #9 11-16-2010, 07:54 AM

my MB212 is great...just played with it outside for a hundred or so people and the thing has some of the best tone i have ever heard. its just newer technology and so people are used to what they have or feel like they are missing something in the lack of weight.

nanookofnj · #10 11-16-2010, 09:59 AM

Sorry guys one more question.

My 2x12 that blew is is 4ohm @ 300watts. That means two 8ohm speakers in there right?

When one froze up, should I expect the non-frozen speaker to function when pushed with the 800RB which dishes 300watts @ 4ohms since the 12" is a 8 ohm speaker? I'm guessing so just at lower power right?

Thanks again.