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Moving a 610 cab up & downstairs without help?

#101
I've moved all sorts of large, heavy cabs up and down stairs on my own and I've developed an odd method, but it works and puts less strain on the lower back than using a hand truck or the step up/step down method.

Going upstairs, turn the cab so it's narrow side faces the stairs, tip it toward the stairs until it's laying at an angle up the stairway. Grab the bottom of the cab and lift up, the top end of the cab will make purchase on a stair. Push it up end over end until the bottom of the cab, now facing up, grabs another stair or hits the landing. Keep doing this end-over-end until you hit the top of the stairs. This does require some upper body strength, and while it sounds awkward in my description, once you get the hang of it it's quite easy.

Reverse the process going down the stairs, staying underneath the cab, flipping it end over end down the stairs. Again, you need upper body strength or at least some mass to keep it from rolling over you, but you're a big enough guy that it shouldn't be an issue.
 
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#102
Yet another reason I moved to an Acoustic Image combo.
15-06-2015-420618204.jpg
 
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#105
It would be out of the question for me. I'd go with the advice to get some lighter gear. But if you love that cab, then go for it. I had to make a similar decision a few years back with a vintage Yamaha combo from the 1970s. It was half the height and the full width of a fridge. It sounded great but I just couldn't take it anymore so I sold it to someone else who could manage it.

Do you have someone you can rely on to help you go up and down the stairs?

Otherwise if you can't just leave it at a friends house with extra space then forget it and go with lighter gear.

Another off the wall idea...can you rent an indoor first floor storage locker? Would not cost that much compared to a doctor bill from lifting that beast all over the place.
 
#106
fakeneckplate'65 said:
I have a Gallien Krueger NEO 410 currently that I use with my 700RBII, I just don't love the sound.

The 610HLF was going to be used with an Ampeg V4B that was to be purchased together..

was... :(
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Have you tried playing through the GK 2 x 12 NEO cab? It's a different sound and light and can be bought used at a fair price. I would at least see if you can try one on for a listen before a fridge raid.
 
#109
fakeneckplate'65 said:
Tomorrow I'm looking at a used Ampeg V4B & 610HLF cab. I'm a little concerned about moving the big cab & it could be unrealistic. I live in a four unit apartment, on the second floor & I will have to move it in & out for gigs.

There's about 5 or 6 steps, then a landing & 5 or 6 more. I know it weighs about 120#. I currently use a Gallien Krueger NEO 410 which apparently weighs around 70#. I usually just bear hug it & move it about.

Am I delusional thinking I can move this cab up & down stairs by myself? Do that casters & big handle help?
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Dolly with strap, large pneumatic, tires, and skid with step hooks is your best option.
 
#113
I'd take the drivers out, move the box, go back, grab a couple of speakers, move those....and reassemble at the gig. Load out - same procedure.

Or...how I really handle things like this - buy enough 112's that you have enough cone area, and move them one at a time. While I can and have moved heavy things (refrigerators, freezers, and 80 pound cabinets that I bear hugged), I am also old enough that I've had a herniated disc repair and a hernia repair. I no longer lift really heavy things by myself, and my heaviest cab (a slightly larger than normal 112) is 42 pounds. It has handles on both sides for a reason - so 2 people can move it. If I get to a gig by myself, I find or make a friend before it goes into the venue.
 
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#115
fakeneckplate'65 said:
Tomorrow I'm looking at a used Ampeg V4B & 610HLF cab. I'm a little concerned about moving the big cab & it could be unrealistic. I live in a four unit apartment, on the second floor & I will have to move it in & out for gigs.

There's about 5 or 6 steps, then a landing & 5 or 6 more. I know it weighs about 120#. I currently use a Gallien Krueger NEO 410 which apparently weighs around 70#. I usually just bear hug it & move it about.

Am I delusional thinking I can move this cab up & down stairs by myself? Do that casters & big handle help?
Click to expand...
I used to help people move in my younger days. Refrigerators, entertainment centers, washers, dryers, tables, etc. Didn't bother me much back them. Today, I just got scheduled for lower back surgery next Wednesday to repair 2 herniated discs and a bulging disc. My advice... look into light cabs! I just dont think it's worth compromising your health for things like heavy cabs. Heed my advice.
 
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#116
Dr. Love said:
Been there, won't do it again. I loaded a fridge sized rig up and down stairs a few times a week for a couple years because it was the only option. Now, I'd go with multiple smaller cabs over one giant one, especially with stairs in the mix...too much opportunity for mishaps. The last thing you want is to fall down the stairs with a 120 pound cab following you at high speed.
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We will need to see the security video on this one!!
 

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