Cabinet to match output of MB2-500

Rimshot · #1 03-19-2010, 05:29 PM

Thanks to a fellow TB'er I am now the proud owner of a new (to me) MB2-500.

I got to try it out in it's first rehearsal the other day and am quite happy with it. The other band members commented on how the whole group sounded better because of it.

My question is: I need to get a cab (or cabs) for shows (sometimes PA assisted, sometimes not). The head is rated at 500w @ 4 ohms (I know, I know...wattage is not the main thing) but being a technotard, I don't remember if I need to get a cab listed at higher or lower than the head to get max performance (Assuming good quality drivers and build). How far above or below is acceptable?

i.e., amp into 2500w 4 ohm cab is stupid or amp into 60w 4 ohm is stupid or somewhere in between (exaggerated for illustration purposes)

RickenBoogie · #2 03-19-2010, 05:31 PM

I'd suggest a neo 2x12, like the GK's. Or. whatever brand you want. A good 2x12 is usually plenty enough, but I wouldn't get anything smaller than that. Of course, a 4x10 would also do the trick.

Rimshot · #3 03-19-2010, 05:38 PM

any old wattage rating?

RickenBoogie · #4 03-19-2010, 06:11 PM

I think most of the better 212's are rated around 600 watts, but that really doesn't matter. Using the gear smartly, and not abusively, will make it last foever(ish). It's more important to know how to use the gear, than it is to "match" wattage ratings. Besides, the ratings on speaker cabs are the thermal limit, (heat), and have nothing to do with how much actual wattage they'll take. Just use your ears.

keyboardguy · #5 03-19-2010, 10:22 PM

Avatar Speakers are popular around here. Very good bang for your buck. Check out their 2X12 or 4X10 @ 4ohms.

Your MB2-500 will thank you.

http://avatarspeakers.com/

Regards,

Mike

blendermassacre · #6 03-19-2010, 10:57 PM

I'm looking at getting one to play with my 4ohm 2x12 cab loaded with carvin speakers (non neo). Something about gk and 12's really does it for me.

**lowendfriend** · #7 03-20-2010, 08:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RickenBoogie

I'd suggest a neo 2x12, like the GK's. Or. whatever brand you want. A good 2x12 is usually plenty enough, but I wouldn't get anything smaller than that. Of course, a 4x10 would also do the trick.

The GK Neo212-II is light weight and a good match for its 500W-ish line. I use it with a 700RB-II. Thumpalicious.

shoot-r · #8 03-20-2010, 01:02 PM

I've got my G.K. MB2-500 driving "two", 210's, 8 ohms ea., 500 watt cap. ea., Avatar Neo cabinets. Their used as a vertical stacked 410 rig.
Stacking them in the vertical gives you the advantages of a 810 cab, (speakers up higher and closer to your ears), but with a small foot-print on stage.
You also get better mids dispersion, less phase problems, and better projection than a standard 410 cabinet.
Plus, use one cab for rehearsals/small gigs, both cabinets when you need more volume and coverage.
I'm with a loud, 6 pcs., country/rock group. This set-up cuts through with authority!

DavePlaysBass · #9 03-20-2010, 03:27 PM

I like mine with an Avatar B210neo and a Aguilar GS112. I do not get real excited about either cabinet by itself but I like the pairing.

I am really looking hard at the 4-ohm, 212MBE that weighs less than 40lbs.

http://bass-guitars.musiciansfriend....orn?sku=423666

El Beardo · #10 03-20-2010, 07:39 PM

I'm running my MB2 into a Genz Benz Neo212T(600wts 4ohm) and it sounds and performs great. I still miss having a 1x15 though. I'm thinking about getting another MB2 and running it into a 1X15 cab. The two MB2s in the rack will still only weigh about 10lbs!