What size Cabinet do you use to play Live

[JimChjones]

There's a seeming consensus of what size rig you need to play live bass here, which is totally at odds with my experience. So I thought, what size rigs do we really use. Poll is limited to bands playing live with an acoustic drummer who uses sticks, otherwise it becomes too meaningless.
I'll do one for amplifier power rating as well. If you have something not listed, then pick the next one up, eg for 3*12 select 4*12. Only select tweeter if you actually use it, not if its turned off! Unlimited selections so you folks with complex rigs can mix and match, or add all your different rigs...

 

[BlackCatBassman]

For 15 years I used a 2x10 on top of a 1x15, so I voted for both.

Right now I'm in the market for an 8x10. Always enough firepower and it has wheels/skid plates.

 

[jlepre]

There's a seeming consensus of what size rig you need to play live bass here, which is totally at odds with my experience. So I thought, what size rigs do we really use. Poll is limited to bands playing live with an acoustic drummer who uses sticks, otherwise it becomes too meaningless.
I'll do one for amplifier power rating as well. If you have something not listed, then pick the next one up, eg for 3*12 select 4*12. Only select tweeter if you actually use it, not if its turned off! Unlimited selections so you folks with complex rigs can mix and match, or add all your different rigs...

I have a few different configurations depending on the venue. I have a Fearless 112 that is a 12" + 5" and horn. I also have my mini rig of doom that works very well in tight stages.

 

[GBBSbassist]

Either a single 12" or two 12" cabs for small gigs, and an 8x10 for big gigs where there's enough stage space.

 

[bass40hz]

I voted 4x12 but its actually 2 - 2x12.
Rock on.

 

[Tricaptain]

I fluctuate; not always with any real rime or reason, but it just so happens that I've been defaulting to my MarkBass 2x10 cabs; vertical configuration. I LOVE the different sounds/qualities of different speaker voicings, and I've used anywhere from 10" speakers to 18" speakers at different venues. While all have their cons (naturally, some of the larger speakers can get really boomy if the EQ isn't really worked with), they all DEFINITELY have their pros.

Still (for ME), the 2x10 (or a pair of 2x10) cabs have been the most practical, between size/weight, footprint and controllable stage volume that doesn't debate much with kick drums, guitars, or most open mic (with thoughtful/careful placement). Cheers!

 

[Ed Byrnes]

I have 2 212s (ampeg) and 4 210s (ampeg) and 2 115s (fender rumbles) so depending on the venue and how I'm feeling...

 

[Jazz Ad]

I can't think of a situation where a well built 2x12 with a poweful head won't get the job done.
I sometimes use more but I can't say I need to.

 

[C-60 Bass]

Berg NV215 with th 6" mid driver at about 2/3rds

 

[PrinceByTor]

Mine is an Ampeg “fridge.” 4x10s with a horn and a 15 on the bottom.

 

[Biggbass]

2x12 gets the most use but for small rooms I use a 2x10

 

[Yogi Bear]

Just ordered a MAS-18. That will be my main gigging cab, paired with a Forte head.

I heard one of these in the wild before and was blown away. For my needs it will be perfect!

So... 1x8 for me.

 

[Valveman]

Varies by venue. I always start with the Mesa SW112 and SW115.

 

[S-Bigbottom]

4 very tiny drivers that fit in my right ear and 4 very tiny drivers that fit in my left ear.

 

[jeff62]

I voted multiple configurations. For smaller gigs, I bring two 1x12 (Aguilar) cabinets. For larger gigs, I wield the Berg NV610.

 

[mikewalker]

In-ears... or else from one to four 1-12 cabs in a vertical stack

 

[RustyAxe]

One or two GB STL-12 cabs depending on the gig. And for those smaller trio gigs, a GB STL-8.

 

[Pilgrim]

In real life, 90% of my gigs are covered by a Fender Rumble 100 with a 12" speaker. great combo, plenty loud enough, and a pleasure to transport.

I also have a Genz-Benz Shuttle 6.2, and to go with it I can choose from a Shuttle single 12", a Shuttle 2x10, and if I think I will need to make ears bleed, I have a Genz Neox 2x12.

I actually bought the Neox used because I have illusions of needing to be stupidly loud at a gig that exists only in my imagination...but it's there if I need it.

 

[Slough Feg Bass]

whatever the backline is I use...

 

[Dogbertday]

I either DI or use my 1x12.