• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

2x12 vs. 1x15+2x10 for Reggae?Advice Please

dubstylee

dubstylee

Feb 9, 2007
610
16
#1
I was wondering if anyone had personal experience playing reggae with a 2x12 cab. I know a 1x15 with 2x10 would probably sound good, but I am on a budget and would rather have only one cabinet if I could. I was also looking at the Dr. Bass 1580 as a stand alone for Reggae. But would a 2x12 cut it? I'm going for some deep lows, with low mids. I'm looking at the Avatar 212 Neo, or the Dr. Bass 1580. I would also look at the SWR Triad, too expensive though for me :hmm:. As everyone can see, I'm all over the place with this as I can't make a relative decision b/c of the lack of experience. Right now I'm using a Peavey 4x10, which leaves me wanting more lows. Thanks everyone, if you could reccommend a budget good quality speaker cab manufacturer, that would be deeply appreciated!:)
 
#5
You can get yourself a Peavey combo with an 18 inch speaker and a 10 in there, for example. I really can't say enough of Peavey stuff; so underrated. You could also grab a 1x15 tilt-back for a budget amp. My Peavey 1x15 'moves' air and sounds good with my P-bass.
 
#9
dubstylee said:
I was wondering if anyone had personal experience playing reggae with a 2x12 cab. I know a 1x15 with 2x10 would probably sound good, but I am on a budget and would rather have only one cabinet if I could. I was also looking at the Dr. Bass 1580 as a stand alone for Reggae. But would a 2x12 cut it?
Click to expand...

It's hard to answer a question like that in the abstract. The actual answer is: "It depends on the specific make & model of cab."

I'm sure there are some quality 2x12 cabs that could probably do the job - the Accugroove Whappo Jr. and the Genz-Benz NeoX212T are two that come to mind. But can you afford them?

You should probably follow your instincts, and just focus on cabs with 15" drivers. That said, the specs on the Dr. Bass 2460D rival those of the Dr. Bass 1580... :hmm:

MM
 
#10
Thanks for everyone's input. It's much appreciated! I've been looking at the Avatar 2x12Neo, and the Harktke V2x15.
Those Dr. Bass Cabs are definately on the list as well. The following cabs I mentioned are in my price range, so one of the following is what I will most likely end up with. The only thing is, I can't play a Dr.Bass, or an Avatar. I can possibly try the Hartke around the DC Metropolitan area I live in, but I most likely won't be able to try the others. That's why I ask the advice of my fellow TBer's. Thanks again folks. Like I said, that low end is what I'm really looking for.

I definately like Avatar, the owner is a super cool guy. Great customer service, that means a lot to people. But, you can never totally know you'll be satisfied with something if you don't play it first hand. He said the 212Neo pumps a lot of lows, but, if it's not like a 15, that'll be hard to get used to.

And just to add, I haven't heard too many good things about Hartke. But I can't make an honest opinion unless I try it myself. Thanks Again!
 
#11
2 used bag end 15s, any model.

Stay away from the hartkes, 15" metal speakers are a large, heavy mistake. I'd be surprised if you found them to sound anything but awful. The only defenses you'll hear will be from players who own them and they love their gear godammit. If you actually have to move them and listen to them there is no upside if other options are available.
 
#13
As far as the 12s go, I just don't think it's necessary for the style of music you're playing. Nor the 1580. Reggae is not exactly noted for the midrange and honestly everyone used just 15s for years and years for everything, so I don't think you're going to desperately miss the sound.

You can always add a 3x10 or something if you need more mids at some point.
 
#16
bigfatbass said:
2 used bag end 15s, any model.

Stay away from the hartkes, 15" metal speakers are a large, heavy mistake. I'd be surprised if you found them to sound anything but awful. The only defenses you'll hear will be from players who own them and they love their gear godammit. If you actually have to move them and listen to them there is no upside if other options are available.
Click to expand...

i disagree- i had a 2x15 with the aluminum speakers which i bought
used for 200 bucks. weighed no more than any standard 2x15 and was seriously loud and deep, and sounded on par with any other 2x15 i've had(and i've had quite a few in the last 27 yeas of playing). ditched it for the same reason i don't use 2x15's made by anyone else-too heavy for living on a second floor condo.
btw, i vote 18" cab over 15" for dub and reggae. especially the older swr big ben with the bag end speaker. goes deeper and is more articulate than most 15 cabs, and not bad at all weight-wise.
my .02
 
#17
I don't play reggae but IMO you won't like the Avatar 212. I own one and love it but it does not have the "dub" sound of a 15 that I think you want.

Maybe pick up a used Avatar 115, there was one for sale on TB classifieds a while back. Don't know what they sound like, but the 212 is not real deep and boomy. I mean it has a great bass sound but the sub-low is not strong like a 15

Hope this helps
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back