Can you combine any two?

KANEfreak69 · #1 11-12-2011, 09:42 PM

Can you combine any head and any cabinet?

billfitzmaurice · #2 11-12-2011, 10:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KANEfreak69

Can you combine any head and any cabinet?

No. You must be sure that the speaker impedance matches the amp's requirements. Also, some combinations work better than others. For instance, tube amps tend to work better with sealed cabs, SS tend to work better with vented.

FooHead · #3 11-12-2011, 10:04 PM

You need to make sure the cab can handle the amp's output, both watts and ohms.

billfitzmaurice · #4 11-13-2011, 07:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FooHead

You need to make sure the cab can handle the amp's output, both watts and ohms.

You cannot have too much amp power so long as you turn the volume down if the cab distorts. If that happens regularly add a second identical cab to give you adequate output capability. This also relates to impedance. Never assume that one cab will be all you'll ever need, leave room for system expansion. For instance, if you have an SS amp with 4 ohm capability don't get a 4 ohm cab, get an 8 ohm cab. That way you can add a second 8 ohm cab later for a total 4 ohm load and your amp will be able to handle it.

RickenBoogie · #5 11-13-2011, 08:33 AM

Massive +1 to Bill's 2 posts.

Joe Louvar · #6 11-13-2011, 08:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FooHead

You need to make sure the cab can handle the amp's output, both watts and ohms.

+1

@ OP - also it’s usually ok to use a higher impedance but not lower. For example, if a amp calls for a 4ohm load it’s usually ok to use an 8ohm speaker but not a 2ohm speaker (of course 4ohms would be loudest). And you need to be careful not to overdrive the speakers with too much power by either keeping the volume on the amp turned down or using speakers that can use and handle all the power of the amp.

Note: tube or transistor - “a watt is a watt”!!!