1x15" or 2x10" combo? Which is preferable for Bass

[Boab Gibb]

Our bassist is planning on getting an Ashdown Mag 300 Combo, but can't decide between 2x10" speakers or a single 1x15".

What are the advantages and disadvantages of both set-ups (excluding price or weight, i guess). It'll be for practicing and small gigs, with a Jazz-bass used most of the time (occasionally a P-Bass too).

Gimme your wisdom folks.

[Randy Bass]

It depends what type of sound you prefer. The 10" speakers will obviously provide better highs (unless the 15" combo has a tweeter) and they will respond faster than the 15" as well. I like the fuller sound of 15" speakers better for bass and I don't like highs that much. If you are playing more modern/heavy or faster-tempo music, the 10s may be better, as the 15 would sound muddier for sure.

[bassdrop]

I had an SWR 2x10 and absolutely hated it. It was terrible as a solo cab. Maybe there are better 2x10's out there, but I've generally had better experiences with 1x15's over 2x10's in terms of an all around good cab that can be used by itself.

I would A/B compare both Ashdowns to see what sounds best.
That being said don't overlook the Eden Nemesis combos. Plus, IMO, the best combo for the money is the Bergantino IP310, if you're cool with portable, huge sound that is also super clean.

[indianDYsummer]

I would say 1x15 if you want booming bass with a little vintage sag. Go 2x10" if you need tight response and more articulate mids/highs.

Personally, I like the response of 1x15 over 2x10.

Just get both

[Van Cleef]

what about a 2x12?

[indianDYsummer]

2x12 is probably a compromise between the two. However, anyone who says they've heard a bass 2x12 is probably a liar!

[Van Cleef]

you do know that orange themselves put out isobaric 2x12 bass cabs which are completely awesome?

[indianDYsummer]

Yeah, not trying to start an argument here but I wouldn't lump the smart power cabs in with what is usually considered a 2x12, 2x10, or 4x10 cabinet because they only have one front mounted speaker. I haven't played on any, but I assume the rear mounted speaker mostly just shares the load and increase power handling and articulation moreso than make it louder. They might seem "really loud" because you're still pumping 500w through which you couldn't normally do with a 1x10. I could be wrong.

Don't get me wrong, they're cool cabs. I recommended a friend get one yesterday!

I suppose I meant, anyone who has claimed to hear a non-isobaric bass cab is a liar. I know avatar makes them, though. I'm sleepy.

[Randy Bass]

2x12 is probably a compromise between the two. However, anyone who says they've heard a bass 2x12 is probably a liar!

I've heard one, and I'm probably a liar .

Fender made a 2x12 tall cab for Bassman heads in the late 1960's. I have also converted two 4x12 guitar cabs into bass cabs (by replacing speakers). I like 12" speakers for bass because they are fuller than 10s without being slow like 15s. It should be noted that a properly-designed modern bass cab will sound much better than a converted guitar cab.

[markjazzbassist]

single 15 all the way.

[Boab Gibb]

Managed to snag a 2x10 MAG combo, with a 1x15 MAG Extension Cab for £200 in This Auction. Seems like a fantastic deal.

Picked it up today and haven't had a chance to mess about with it much yet, but it seems fantastic. Well chuffed with it!

Thanks for all the advice nonetheless. As was said, I can see how 10's are generally for punchier, treblier tones while the 15" can add decent low-end. It's great to have both, especially at this price when it looks so good too.

Yay

[indianDYsummer]

Sounds like a great deal!

Glad you went with my suggestion to get both. You'll be happy with the pairing, I think. It will definitely make for a well-rounded stack.

[Randy Bass]

That rig looks pretty awesome for the money. Conflatulations!

[Borderline Productions]

Sounds like the issue has been resolved, but I'll put in my two cents. I always thought I liked 1 15-inch better until I heard a 410 cab by Eden (from before they were bought out). The 10s are punchy and the ported cab gave plenty of bass. It was much more articulate and less flabby. That was a great cab. I have also played a 410 that was not ported that sounded horrible. So, what bass cab do I have? A 212 Neox GenzBenz that is ported. Nice and punchy with good depth.

Getting both will probably work for you. I have a friend with has two Eden 212s (from before the buyout. Takes one to small gigs and two to larger gigs.

Have fun with the new cabs.

[Fredomusicman]

I also always play with both. Good choice