A question I expect entirely subjective answers to.....

[BlackDog Music]

So, like any good GenX player, I've had pretty much every possible amp combo possible, from SVT's to Peavey's to SWR's to Edens and so on and so on.
If you were looking for a cab - SMALL cab - and it was being powered by a 50W tube head - would you want a 2x10 or a 1x15? Why? And don't cheat say "both." Yeah, yeah, yeah. But lets pretend you can literally only bring one to this gig - mid-sized club with a PA.

 

[crentest]

i would use a 1x15 because i have it.

 

[SJan3]

I'd use a 2x10" because I have it.

 

[WRM]

I don't own either configuration.

 

[buldog5151bass]

Speaker size means nothing by itself.

 

[pepj]

Vanderkley 210 MNT.

 

[Jefenator]

Bag End S-15D. Best small-ish cab I know of for getting as much volume as possible from 50 watts (on account of its exceptionally high sensitivity rating).

I also have a newer neo 2x10 which is really nice & practical for some jobs, but not my go-to for standalone use with lower wattage tube heads. It does make for an epic 4Ω stack, though!

 

[Hot Rats]

In my world, a 50 watt tube head gets a 1x15. Why? Because it's a combo and I have no choice.

 

[Sid the Kid]

I'd go single 15 and I have both.

 

[aprod]

Fifty watt amp is for bedroom practice.

 

[Jefenator]

Fifty watt amp is for bedroom practice.

Ha ha, I guess I missed that memo.

 

[badinage]

Just running up the score for 1x15.

 

[Scotty4string]

Fifty watt amp is for bedroom practice.

Nah, I gig with one all the time.

 

[coreyfyfe]

If I post two cabs is that two votes for 210?

 

[Wood and Wire]

Speaker size means nothing by itself.

Well, it means a 1x15 has greater surface area than a 2x10.

 

[2thAche]

Subjective? I'd not use a 50W head.

 

[Jeff Scott]

Bag End S-15D.

I had a pair of those in the mid '90s.

As to the posed question, a lot depends on which 1-15 or 2-10.

 

[gln1955]

I'd bring my Subway and 2x12 and the 50 watt as my backup.

 

[bigjames]

My 2 cents, and this is 100% based on my own experience and perception and others may disagree...

The 2x10 will give you a little more mid range and punch through the mix. The 1x15 will be warmer and fuller with more bass tone and low end. I have always really liked the sound of a 1x12 so I think I would lean towards the 15". To me, this will come down to personal opinion and preference.

Again, this is my personal opinion based on experience and there is no doubt someone on here with more experience and knowledge who will be able to explain why I am right or why I am wrong. LOL. I accept either outcome.

 

[Pings Bass]

1x12 is the shizzle for me. Took a bit of convincing (Gen X too, back in the day it was 10s and 15s for bass and 12s for guitar, right?), but it's the right combo of size/weight/volume for me. I don't play rock though; wouldn't wanna try to keep up with a big stick drummer and a couple half stack guitar amps.