• 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.

New lightweight Darkglass cabs

I have the DG212N on the way. If I remember, I will post comments on the sound, comparing it to the Genzler MG212T I sold recently. I adapt to anything, so I decided to be superficial in my choice and picked the DG for the looks. Sue me.

Demo unit arrived a couple days ago. Couple dents from UPS as usual. Used the 7PRO and LB100 and pushed the cab hard with no problem. It is very similar to the Genzler, even the handles are the same style and quality. I didn't check the weight of the Genzler, but it felt similar +- a few lbs. The tweeter responds the same (not harsh), smooth. The sound is phenomenal. It's articulate, it has a ton of girth and balance across the spectrum. It reminds me why I enjoy 12's. I played my MG212 at dozens of shows and who knows how many rehearsals with various bands. That cab had so much presence in a mix, I assume this will be the same. It's in the same league as all the 212's we obsess about. Barefaced, Berg, etc. Build quality is what you'd expect and want.

The ceilings here are about 20 ft and not many cabs sound good here. The DG sounds incredible. Probably not helpful, but noted.


Join the dark side.
 
I had the new Darkglass 2X12 cab for a few weeks but I switched to a Hartke Hydrive 410 with is in my opinion a big update!
the 2X12 didn't spread the sound and only sounded good if you stand just in front of it.
The Hartke keeps sounding good in whole the room.
Also the switch on the back of the 2X12 feels really cheap on the Darkglass.
I really liked the Darkglass sound but for me the Hydrive sound fits me better.
 
I had the new Darkglass 2X12 cab for a few weeks but I switched to a Hartke Hydrive 410 with is in my opinion a big update!
the 2X12 didn't spread the sound and only sounded good if you stand just in front of it.
The Hartke keeps sounding good in whole the room.
Also the switch on the back of the 2X12 feels really cheap on the Darkglass.
I really liked the Darkglass sound but for me the Hydrive sound fits me better.


I guess that's why I don't bother posting specifics anymore. I've played on many 212's, and several for a long time. I don't notice a difference in dispersion that would be relevant. The CN212 and Genzler both felt the same. I can't speak to what you're experiencing with the switch (looks like your Hartke has a switch, the 212 has a dial). The tweeter control feels extremely solid and pleasant to adjust. I keep making this comparison, but it feels like the same exact control used on the Genzler. These cabs are all cheap parts, built and then we get raped on the cost.

Hope you enjoy the Hartke.

I won't keep up with this thread, so good luck TB. Hope to see more DG owners in the future.
 
I had the new Darkglass 2X12 cab for a few weeks but I switched to a Hartke Hydrive 410 with is in my opinion a big update!
the 2X12 didn't spread the sound and only sounded good if you stand just in front of it.
The Hartke keeps sounding good in whole the room.
Also the switch on the back of the 2X12 feels really cheap on the Darkglass.
I really liked the Darkglass sound but for me the Hydrive sound fits me better.
I think the dispersion difference between a 4x10 and 2x12 is a pretty common finding brand aside. Not necessarily defending the DG cab as I've never tried one but 4x10s have way better dispersion.
 
Hmm, my old Eden 410XLT seems to have a strong „sweet spot“ phenomenon. We practice in a fairly small room, but the sound is very different depending on where you are standing.

My goal is to buy a 2x12 cab that has better dispersion than my 4x10 Eden. I am looking at Mesa Subway, Bergantino and Darkglass.
 
Anyone have one of these newer Darkglass cab that's also owned or played through the Mesa Subway series?

I currently have a D800+ going through two 115 cabs and love it.

But you know, GAS and what not.
 
It's been in the back of my head to get a 'small' amp mostly for home use. That said, I'm a 5-string player and love that low B, so I find I generally have to get at least a 112 or 210 just to handle the low end. I owned an Ampeg SVT 410HLF, which was a thunder monster, but these days, I'm just wanting something very nice and balanced so my tone can come from my bass and pedals. I'd more or less settled on an Aguilar SL112, but I'm curious about the DG now. I can't wait to hear some proper reviews and comparisons pop up on the youtubes!
 
Is anyone going to bring up the new elite series?
Sure, they look nice. They're a little bit pricier than an Ampeg 810. They're a good 30ish pounds lighter though. Some of the weight savings is likely owing to less bracing. The Ampeg is 4 210 cabs with bracing and separation between them, the DG is two 410's.

I like the configuration on the 412 with the offset design. I imagine that it will be at least somewhat difficult to find one in a store to check one out.
 
Super late as usual, but I just got the 2x12 and I'm super psyched to play through it tomorrow. I'll be using the Markbass Combo Head II with my Sire V7 Vintage 2nd Gen 5-String and Markbass Microtubes X7. This is a step up from the Markbass combo which is a 2x10. I also have a separate clean channel to a powered 18, which I know is excessive and unnecessary, just like most of what I do.
 
KingOfTheRoad - can you comment on the build quality; how is it tolex covering; does it seem sturdy (have concerns on the wood used for the outside box - softer than normal cabinet wood).

And I guess if you want a cover you'd have to custom order from a company that does custom work; or does DG have one for this cab?
I know this is from a while ago but the wood is quite weak, after some heavy gigging mine is pretty beat up :(
 
I had a Darkglass 2x12 and I didn't really like it after the honeymoon period.
It was honky and thin.

2 months ago I bought the 4x10 for half the price and god what a difference!
I had alot of cabs now and this is my favorite. It's full sounding, Nice punchy bass response.
I don't use the tweeter. Not a fan of that. I keep the dial in the middle.
4x10 vs 2x12 is a really big difference!
Only thing is, I wish they also made it in 8ohm...
 

Attachments

  • 191739966_4053661337989789_3012808129253359533_n.jpeg
    191739966_4053661337989789_3012808129253359533_n.jpeg
    320.8 KB · Views: 110
  • Like
Reactions: Stranger Danger
This was my concern because the sides are paulownia. I was curious to see if they used a hardener on the face of the boards. There's always a trade off with materials. Hey at least it's lite? Also, heavy gigging since you bought it? What planet do you live on?

Melbourne, Australia. just went into lockdown after 100 days of no covid cases :)
Best music scene in the world, so lots of opportunities for gigging multiple times a week !