• 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.

Agular DB410 vs Ampeg 212AV

J

jkoeth

Mar 7, 2008
43
34
#1
I have a new Ampeg Heritage 50th Anniversary SVT Head that I am currently running through an Aguilar DB410 cab (4 ohms)

The DB410 sounds great, but I am seriously considering switching the cab to an Ampeg 212AV (4 ohms) as it will be over 30lbs lighter and match the Ampeg sound and aesthetic.

Anyone compared the two cabs with an SVT head or others?

What might I expect in the differences? I have not had the chance to try the 212AV.

I'd really appreciate any feedback. Thanks!
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: thedovewarlord
#2
The specs for the cabs:

Specifications​

AGUILAR DB410 4ohms

Power Handling: 700 watts RMS
Frequency Response: 40 Hz - 16 kHz
Sensitivity: 101 dB 1W 1M
Includes: Removable Casters
Dimensions: 24 3/4″ H, 24 1/2″ W, 17 1/2″ D
Weight: 98 lbs
  • Custom Eminence drivers; Aguilar's custom horn and crossover
  • 4 x 10" speakers and phenolic tweeter with integral phase plug
  • Delivers Aguilar's distinctive, full-range signature sound
  • Clear, focused midrange lets you punch through a thick mix
  • Pairs nicely with Aguilar's DB 751 head
  • 13-ply baltic birch cabinet; includes removable casters
  • Built tour-grade tough in New York City


AMPEG 212AV 4ohms

RMS Power Handling: 600 Watts
Frequency Response (-3dB): 71 Hz -18 kHz
Usable Low Frequency (-10 dB): 40 Hz
Nominal Impedance: 4 Ohms
Sensitivity: 99 dB
Maximum SPL: 127 dB
Dimensions (W x H x D inches): 24 x 25 x 16
Weight: 66 Pounds
  • 2 x 12" bass speaker cabinet with classic SVT tone
  • 600 watts at 4 ohms
  • 1" compression driver with 3-position level control lets you add definition and snap
  • 15mm poplar-ply construction for ultra-rugged reliability
  • Ported cabinet for extended low-frequency response
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: thedovewarlord
#3
Those are going to be very different sounding cabs. I had a pair of the 112AV and really liked them with my SVT and other tube amps. They don’t have a ton of low end but it works for an amp like an SVT which I feel can get muddy when played into a deeply tuned/ported cab. The 12AV cabs are closer to the sealed ampeg 10 cabs in their low end profile.

My experience with the Aggie DB series is limited to the 12s, but given the specs I would imagine the 10 to be similar. Bigger lows.
 
  • Like
Reactions: thedovewarlord and SJan3
#6
I had the Ampeg Heritage 50th Anniversary SVT and ran it through an Aguilar DB410, it sounded monster but I had too many reliability issues (a few defective units) with the Ampeg so I replaced it with an Aguilar DB751 and dont miss the SVT at all, in fact I love the Aggie.

as far as 12" go, I have limited experience with the Ampeg 212AV but I own a DB412.

I played the Ampeg 212 with a V4B head at our rehearsal studio, maybe twice, and it looked and sounded great. This was when I still owned the SVT, that rig did not have as much headroom, nor did it slam/punch as either the SVT or the DB751 or even my GK700RB, the cabinet was AOK, but not better than what I have at home.

That said, if you're looking for aesthetics, the 212AV looks great and matches perfectly with the vintage Herritage head, so it wins there. As far as weight, the Ampeg is lighter, but both cabinets have casters and are cumbersome. I found my DB412 easier than any 410, 212 or smaller cabs to move because the tilt-back and you can lean it into your tail gate vs deadlift or pull it up or down stairs like a hand truck loaded with six pack cans.

If youre asking me, I'd stick with the Aguilar and find a DB212 used (very rare but GREAT cab and it would unleash the full potential of that SVT) but if aesthetics and weight is a big factor and you are not cranking it up too loud, the 212AV can hang, but you may miss the DB410.

EDIT CORRECTION -- I suggested finding a DB212
 
Last edited:

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back