Might not be in budget ($900 on Sweetwater, pretty sure you can do a little better), but the 38 lb Mesa Subway 115 is a very very good all arounder - don't let the 15" fool you, it's not a subba dub fart machine. I can carry it one handed (has side spring handles) for going up and down stairs, it's a very easy though slightly awkward 2 handed carry - I keep banging my fingers on doorways lol.
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Lightweight cabinet recs
- Thread starter LBS-bass
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- cabinet lightweight
Mesa Boogie Subway series cabs are outstanding.
I use a pair of Bergantino CN-112's or a single Mesa Subway 15. Not cheap, but both have fantastic performance/weight ratios!
Al Kraft
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- May 2, 2016
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You may want to take a serious look at the AudioKinesis Hathor 1203/1203T or Changeling 112/112T. I like the tall (T) versions a little better for getting a tad fuller low end, but these are the loudest, lightest, best sounding cabs I know of. The T version only adds about 3 or 4 inches to a very compact cab and is actually more convenient for getting to amp controls IMO. Super light weight and minimal size, but with heavyweight tone and volume.
I've done this as well using 1/2" big-box hardware store 5-ply plywood, some strategic internal bracing, PL Premium adhesive, and some Duratex for the finish. I've never weighed the cabs, old versus new, but my back tells me the weight savings is substantial.
You have a nice 410 cab and bought an OK'ish 210 that did not satisfy you.
You want a cab that can deliver like your SWR does, but weighs a lot less.
This path takes you straight into boutique builder territory. Cabinets by Audiokinesis, barefaced
and fEARful / fEARless are, in a single word, ridiculous.
They manage to pack the punch and lows of a 410 into a really small package that's around 25lbs.
It's hard to believe when some guy on the internet claims they do. It's even harder to believe when you put that claim to the test and your ears tell you it's true. I've been there and I've done that.
These cabs are not cheap, though. They are rare on the used market, because people who own them don't have anywhere to look to step up their game, so they won't sell them to fund better gear.
You even have to commission a build and wait since they build to order and have, if any, very little stock.
They still are worth every penny. My 20lbs barefaced Super Compact replaced my 72lbs Aguilar 212 cab. It's smaller, louder and a one hand carry.
You want a cab that can deliver like your SWR does, but weighs a lot less.
This path takes you straight into boutique builder territory. Cabinets by Audiokinesis, barefaced
and fEARful / fEARless are, in a single word, ridiculous.
They manage to pack the punch and lows of a 410 into a really small package that's around 25lbs.
It's hard to believe when some guy on the internet claims they do. It's even harder to believe when you put that claim to the test and your ears tell you it's true. I've been there and I've done that.
These cabs are not cheap, though. They are rare on the used market, because people who own them don't have anywhere to look to step up their game, so they won't sell them to fund better gear.
You even have to commission a build and wait since they build to order and have, if any, very little stock.
They still are worth every penny. My 20lbs barefaced Super Compact replaced my 72lbs Aguilar 212 cab. It's smaller, louder and a one hand carry.
I'm ideally hoping to stay under 1K. I might pull the trigger on this one: For Sale - RevSound RS210T with bottom port
There seems to be an error on the website. According to it, the 112B weighs the same.
Given that the speakers alone weigh in at 10,14 lbs it seems a bit unlikely that the entire cabinet is only 5,86 lbs heavier.
Hmmm, good catch. Regardless, I've heard good things about them.
Why not try a Rumble 210 cabinet? Sounds great, loud as hell, light as a feather (39lbs), and easy on your wallet at $350.
I'm thinking that's a bridge I'll cross when I get there. Right now I'm not playing any rooms that are going to need that kind of setup. This cabinet can take more than the power I have to give it right now, so upgrading the head is my next logical step. Maybe in a year I'll need to re-evaluate my gear again.
I tried out a Trace Elliot ELF 2x8 (27 pounds) and I was blown away by the tiny thing. I'd imagine it would be enough for most gigs so long as you have a PA to reinforce you. If not a pair would probably be best.
I'd be interested in the real specs. With all these options, there has to be a significant difference in weight of a carpet covered metal grille version and a natural finish cloth grille one.
I decided to spring for the RevSound. Thanks everyone. Please continue if you like, since it might help someone else. Lots of great recommendations here.
