• 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 freeLog in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

DIY 212 S2012 Basslite

Bill Staudt

Commercial User
Jun 18, 2002
845
566
Disclosures
Luthier @ Novo Guitars
Hi Talkbass,

I wanted to share some pics of my recently completed 212 built around the Eminence S2012 Basslite drivers. The cab was designed around Duke LeJeune’s info from this thread:

2x12 need design help


Thanks to Duke, and everyone here for all the info that made this DIY possible for me!
 

Attachments

  • Duke S2012 212-Model.jpg
    Duke S2012 212-Model.jpg
    68.3 KB · Views: 491
  • IMG_1948.JPG
    IMG_1948.JPG
    170 KB · Views: 502
  • IMG_1945.JPG
    IMG_1945.JPG
    195.9 KB · Views: 559
  • IMG_1946.JPG
    IMG_1946.JPG
    200.2 KB · Views: 477
Thanks! I'm really pleased with the way it turned out.
I've used that driver as a replacement before, and always liked it. I thought it could really shine in a properly designed cab. It didn't disappoint.
 
Nice work. I have one in small diy 1.4cf @ 55hz box. Been a workhorse and sounds great. Doesn't have the output capability of more expensive drivers but it's no slouch and I'm sure two can cover a lot of ground for a lot of people.

The other driver I have tried in this box is an 18 Sound 12MB700.
 
Hey TB, I wanted to do a follow up on my cab after using it over the past year.


Background:

I’m a finger style “pocket” player. I don’t slap, or tap, or do anything that would require any HF information.


The S2012 driver rolls off around 3-4K. This was good for me. That being said, I think this cab could benefit from a HF driver if your needs dictated it. The extended high frequency response of the S2012 should blend nicely into a correctly designed crossover and HF driver.


Lining:

I experimented with different lining configurations. Fully, half (back, top, one side), and unlined. For me, I chose unlined. Lining smoothed out the upper mids, but I chose to go with a little more aggressiveness for my needs.


Power:

The S2012 driver is rated at 150 watts, giving this cab a rating around 300 watts. I drive it with a GK 400RB MK IV. This is a perfect combination for me. In fact, it’s more than I would ever need. I could see a scenario of wiring the drivers in series for 16Ohms, and using a pair with a high powered amp, but that’s just ridiculous.


Tone:

This is a tough one, but I’ll give it my best shot.

I would classify this cab as a hybrid between Vintage, and Hi-Fi. The extended low frequency response is right inline with any modern high-tech cab. The smooth roll-off of the highs is consistent with vintage styled cabs. I wouldn’t describe this cab as “punchy” or “boomy”. I would say it’s a pretty neutral cab, with a ton of ass, a little somethin’ in the upper mids, and dies at 5k.


Conclusion:

This is the perfect cab for me. It may not be the perfect cab for you.
 

Latest posts