Acoustic Image Coda with EA VL-110

[BJthumps]

I am shopping around for a small and light bass rig that will work for my acoustic upright (primarily for bluegrass), as well as for electric with an optional extension cabinet (small clubs). I'd appreciate any insight from the forum folks on the Acoustic Image S4 Coda combo matched with an EA VL-110. I recently tried out the EA VL-110 and loved the sound of it (with various heads, including Genz Benz 6.0), but the EA weighs about 30 pounds and I'd still like to get down the weight for the base configuration. If I could get my hands on the VL-108 that would be cool but chances are remote

I'm considering going with a Coda for the weight factor (vs. a Ten2), and then matching it with an EA VL-110, either in combination, or using the Coda's Clarus 2-channel head with the EA alone. I am going to try a Coda out today. Anything I need to consider for impedance matching, etc.? Would I do better to add a Coda extension cabinet, or something else from Acoustic Image?

I tried the Acoustic Image Ten2 through both my upright and my Modulus 5-string, and it didn't over-wow me, I'm not sure if the Coda will give me the same impression or not or over time if I'll grow to appreciate its capability to naturally reproduce my instruments intrinsic sounds which is what I'm going for. I've listened to the sound samples online and have a lot of respect for how Acoustic Image has developed and supports their products. Thanks a lot.

[Pat Harris]

The AI and EA gear works well together as all of the AI heads are capable of going down to 2 ohms. AI, IMO, has the most "transparent" sound of any amp/cab I've ever used. It doesn't have that forward firing heft that many other bass amps have, but it does sound amazing.

Regardless of power, you're only going to move so much air with a single 10 or two tens in the case of the Ten2. You may also want to check out the Shuttle 6.2 combos from Genz Benz. They aren't as transparent as the AI gear, but it works great for upright bass.

[BJthumps]

Thanks Pat. Comparing Genz Benz combos (12" speaker compared to either AI or EA), they just don't get the same amazing sound quality. In cases where I need to project more sound (electric), I'm wondering if I should hold onto my SWR Goliath Jr. 2x10 cabinet (8 ohm) and combine with the Coda. I also use a 15" JBL in a Hard Truckers cabinet for electric (in the past with SWR 400s or GK 400RB) - but all these options weigh more than I want to move around these days. It's very attractive to have the grab and go 22 lb. Coda.

Barbara