I'm putting together a new rig and have a Bergantino Forte inbound from another TBer. This is mainly going to be my home setup, but I'd like to be able to keep up with a drummer, if the opportunity arose. Although I probably won't move it much, I'd like a lightweight cab because I have to tote it up and down stairs. I only play 4 string fingerstyle, and I generally prefer 12" or 15" speakers, but I could be talked into a 210. My budget is around $900 and I'm planning to get just one cab this time out. I may add the next time I have some spare cash, but it's probably unnecessary. I've been reading through the various threads and have a few ideas, but need some help choosing: Berg HDN112 or REF112 Fearless Bassic 12 or 15 Fearless F112 (would need to be used) AK 1203 Mesa Subway 112 or 115 Thanks
If you ask me, the Fearless cabs are just way too heavy and awkward to move. The AudioKinesis 1203 is probably the lightest of the bunch and is stupidly easy to move because of the handle design, and of course it sounds incredible. The Subway 115 is an incredible cab that has no equal, but is a little awkward to move around compared to the AK. Also hard to argue with a Berg cab for your Berg amp. I guess I vote for the AudioKinesis because you said you will be going up and down stairs, and it's by far the easiest cab to carry up and down stairs.
Based on your criteria, I’d go HDN112 or 210 for your forté. It’s almost like they were made for each other.
I'd pick up a HDN210 and maybe add a 112 later if you feel you need it . Small lightweight , and gorgeous cabs .
With a budget of $900, I'm guessing you could snag 2 1x12's or 1x15's on the secondhand market. IMO, you'll need both if contending with normal ensemble volume...or a caffeine-driven drummer! Afterthought: don't limit your selections based on thread hype or driver size. There's no hard & fast rule as it applies to size and enclosure response. Riis
try a Schroeder 115PL, 35 lbs, Italian and Spanish speakers, as of last week, 2 weeks to build and ship Cabinets | Schroeder Cabinets | Bass Cabinets | California
I bought a Berg CN112 a few years back very light and portable, great tone and puts out a lot of sound. Later I found a CN210 to go with it. I rarely use both but now mainly use the 210. Also great tone, not quite as low but still plenty of low end. The form factor works better, the drivers sit a bit higher and it cuts through the mix better. It is slight heavier but is more balanced and as easy to carry or easier than the 112 which is boxier. Have used either or both cabs on many gigs in different genres. Only times I have been unhappy were truly terrible rooms. So I would look at the HDN series (have not seen many CN's available used lately.) the other option I would look at if starting over would be a HGN310, would love to try one. For disclosure I use a ToneHammer 500 and have not had a chance to try a Berg head but would love to.
Thanks everyone - I think I'm going to try to track down an HDN112 or HDN210 - leaning slightly toward the 210.
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