Ampeg 8x10 or Mesa 8x10

JamesHommersen · #1 08-21-2010, 03:52 PM

It's about time I upgrade my cab. I'd like to know what you guys have to say about the two. Preferences, sound quality, +/- qualities, etc. I've been leaning towards the Mesa, but I'd like to hear what others have to say before finalizing my decision. Any input would be great, thanks!

waleross · #2 08-21-2010, 04:58 PM

I read the reviews on the Mesa and its heavier than my 810E.
If I didn't already have (2) Ampegs, I would consider it.
It is $1599 but it looks like a real monster, don't let it fall on you ! GC has it in its inventory.......

Bigjohn · #3 08-21-2010, 05:41 PM

Mesa Powerhouse 8x10 is a waaaay better cab.
Way better design, way better components, way better construction, way better sound.
It's also way more expensive but you get what you pay for.

JimmyM · #4 08-21-2010, 05:42 PM

mesa is ported and has a tweeter so it goes deeper and higher, but ampeg is THE sound as far as i'm concerned. can't go wrong with either but i'll take ampeg.

rbonner · #5 08-21-2010, 05:43 PM

It might be worth it to actually drive to a GC or Bass Central that has both cabs in stock. The new AMPEG 810's are wonderfull. Bring your head and bass and have at it. Your OL will like going shopping in the US anyway, see you're a stones throw from Buffalo and Rochester...

BOB

BassBreaker · #6 08-21-2010, 05:53 PM

MESA!!

BillJarrett · #7 08-21-2010, 06:01 PM

+1 Mesa

DBTOYS · #8 08-21-2010, 06:04 PM

Ampeg only for me

Knifedge · #9 08-21-2010, 06:14 PM

I have tried both... I am more biased towards an ampeg 810....

JamesHommersen · #10 08-21-2010, 06:25 PM

Alright, thanks guys, I think I've made my decision...Mesa it is. Now it's just a matter of paying for it and getting it home.

KLEIN · #11 08-21-2010, 07:55 PM

I think they are both great! What are you using to power it?

JamesHommersen · #12 08-21-2010, 08:07 PM

Not sure yet. Right now I'm currently using a little Marshall 30 watt MB. I have a Mesa V12 Titan, but I need a cab. I'll hopefully be going on Monday to check it out and make a payment and ask all of the questions that I should. What would you recommend I power it with?

fourstringburn · #13 08-21-2010, 08:40 PM

Like most bassists, I have used different amps and cabs throughout the years searching for that elusive monster tone. While this subject is certainly "subjective" to one's personal preference, I do think you should try both cabs or as many as you can before spending your hard earned money.

I have to admit after trying the Ampeg 810, I was immediately smitten on how clean and clear the open E string sounded with my 11lb '78 P bass. I found this to be true even with using a GK RB1000 amp as well as my current Ampeg preamp setup. I wish I would have tried this cab years ago.

Other cabs I have used in the past sounded kind of blurry. I suspect the designers of this cab used a P bass to match the sound of the cab. This cab can handle a lot of power so don't be scared to push it. I currently slam 2-810 cabs with 1500 watts each and it is not only loud, but tight and articulate at higher levels than I have ever pushed a bass rig before.

I'm sold on the Ampeg 810. Who cares if it is heavy, that's what the casters and towel bar are for. You should have a van or truck to haul your rig around because it might not fit in the backseat of a car.

JimmyM · #14 08-21-2010, 09:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JamesHommersen

Not sure yet. Right now I'm currently using a little Marshall 30 watt MB. I have a Mesa V12 Titan, but I need a cab. I'll hopefully be going on Monday to check it out and make a payment and ask all of the questions that I should. What would you recommend I power it with?

what's wrong with the titan? you have it, it's made by mesa, use it.

JamesHommersen · #15 08-21-2010, 09:08 PM

Yeah, I just reread my post....I love the Titan, wouldn't use anything else. Not sure what I was sayin'.

georgestrings · #16 08-22-2010, 09:03 AM

I've found that a good quality 610 is more than enough for any gig I'll ever play - and I play in fairly loud modern rock/metal bands for the most part...

Depending on what kind of sound you're looking for, I'd recommend Mesa's PH 610 or SWR's Goliath Sr for a "modern" sound with lots of low end and highs - for more of an "old school", "Ampeg-ish" sound, Begantino's NV610 is as good as it gets, IMO...

Of course, an Ampeg 810e can be had on the used market for a very good price at times, and a great modern sounding 810 that's easier to move than Mesa's 810 - and can also be had for a decent price at times - is SWR's Megoliath...

- georgestrings

mrkreuzschlitz · #17 08-22-2010, 11:28 AM

Mesa 412 or GK 412, just saying.

georgestrings · #18 08-22-2010, 03:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mrkreuzschlitz

Mesa 412 or GK 412, just saying.

Can't go wrong with either of those, as well...

- georgestrings

Sartori · #19 08-22-2010, 05:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by georgestrings

I've found that a good quality 610 is more than enough for any gig I'll ever play - and I play in fairly loud modern rock/metal bands for the most part...

Depending on what kind of sound you're looking for, I'd recommend Mesa's PH 610 or SWR's Goliath Sr for a "modern" sound with lots of low end and highs - for more of an "old school", "Ampeg-ish" sound, Begantino's NV610 is as good as it gets, IMO...

Of course, an Ampeg 810e can be had on the used market for a very good price at times, and a great modern sounding 810 that's easier to move than Mesa's 810 - and can also be had for a decent price at times - is SWR's Megoliath...

- georgestrings

+1 on the Bergantino NV6x10. I want to try one of those, or their 2x15 from the same series. Have heard only good things about those cabs.

Mykk · #20 08-22-2010, 05:22 PM

I love Mesa Boogie, always have. But, I just added a SVT810E to my rig and it's just what the doctor ordered for my 'live' bar scene stage tone.