• 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.

Is an 810 worth it?

Recently I've been looking to upgrade my bass rig and it's boiled down to either getting a more powerful GK 210 combo to add to my 410 or an 810 fridge. Is the 810 worth the hassle and going with a lower-powered head to go with it?
 
I agree that if volume is what you are looking for 8x10's are the staple, however they can be heavy and hard to move. You could look at 6x10 cabs which are a little less weight and size. Or you could do the 2x 4x10 setup, however I have found 4x10's actually harder to move around and harder to lift.
 
I love my 8x10. In my opinion gear is all about inspiring your own personal voice...

The 8x10 coupled with an SVT tube head sound is what inspires me. When I listen to myself play bass in my imagination, you better believe I am ferociously blasting through my 8x10. Another added bonus of the 8x10; you will never have issues hearing yourself on stage. I've played shows where the live sound is absolute horrific but I always come through clear to myself.

Unfortunately because its so big, I don't get to use it all the time (I have a 4x10 for smaller club shows, and a Trace Elliot rig as well). If you are being as practical as possible, I'd recommend another set up. The 8x10 is pricey, tough to move, and requires A LOT of power.

Nevertheless, if it inspires you, don't hesitate; try it out. You can always resell; there is always someone out there about to take the 8x10 plunge.
 
I used to think its worth it, but after having one and hauling it around I think I'm going to sell mine. If anything, get a 1x15. The 10s will give you the punch. The 15 will give you that delish bottm end. I feel 8x10s don't give you that full sonic range
Not true at all. I can find cabs made with 10's that go way lower than any 115 I've ever heard, and I can find you 115's that are as tight and punchy as any 410 or 810. The choice to haul it around is yours, though. Some don't mind it, some do. But even at my advanced age, and despite the fact that I use my 810 for only a handful of gigs, if I had to get rid of all my cabs but one, the one I would keep is my 810.
 
I'm still not clear on what the OP is using now. A 4x10 with what? A 210 combo? Or maybe that's what he's thinking about upgrading to? I'm unclear.

I have been playing through an 8x10 every friday night for the last few months. I don't have to move it, so it's pretty ok. It definitely is a requirement for certain high volume applications. I can't imagine getting the same tone and volume out of another cab config (excepting two 4x10s.)

On the other hand, I'd seriously consider those two 4x10s. At least they're modular. You could just use one if you didn't need both.

On the other other hand, I'd seriously consider a 6x10. Almost as loud and not quite as heavy.

On still another hand, I'd seriously consider a 4x12, or two 2x12s. Again, not as loud as an 8x10, but definitely smaller, lighter and cheaper. And would probably smoke your existing 4x10 (all things being equal).

Point is, I'd consider every alternative before I saddled myself with an 8x10. They're great to play through but terrible to move and pay for.