Sound Check: The 6 Best Guitar Cabinets on the Market
Learn the features to look for and how to choose the best guitar cabinets for your budget and situation, along with our Top 6 recommendations!
Guitar cabinets not only serve the practical function of amplifying sound, but also significantly shape and color a guitar's tone. With the right guitar cabinet, the sound of your instrument can be transformed into something truly exceptional.
In this article, we will explore the different types of guitar cabinets, the materials they are made from, the impact they have on sound quality, and how to go about choosing one for yourself.
Overview of Guitar Cabs
The guitar cabinet has a rich history, and has played a crucial role in the evolution of electric guitar sound. Guitar cabs, or speakers cabinets, are an essential component of the guitar gear, alongside the guitar amp and amp head.
The guitar speaker cabinet is designed to enhance the guitar tone and sound, with the closed-back cabinet providing a tight and focused low-end, while the open-back design offers an open and airy sound.
The speaker cone, made of materials such as ceramic or paper, helps to generate the audio signal, while the speaker configurations determine the frequency spectrum and the power output.
An example of one of the most iconic guitar cabinets in history is the Fender Hot Rod Deluxe, which is actually a combo amp...but sounds like a half stack! It is recognized for its powerful and compact cabinet, which offers a great sound and bass response favored by many guitar players.
The amp head is also an important part of the guitar cabinet, with modern amplifiers such as the Hughes & Kettner TubeMeister delivering the core tone that defines a guitar sound.
Celestion vintage 30 speakers are among the best guitar cab speakers available, with their tight response and mid-range frequencies that provide a perfect match for high gain and metal players.
The closed-back speaker cabinet is favored by many guitar players for its sound and power, and can be seen in a variety of shapes and sizes, with metal corners and durable construction.
Guitar cabinets have evolved over the years, and can now be found with modern amp heads and compact cabinets that offer a tight and focused sound. The angled cabinet is also a popular design, favored by recording studios for their great sound and open sound, suitable for a wide range of playing styles.
In summary, the guitar cabinet is an essential component of the guitar gear, playing a crucial role in defining the sound of the electric guitar. With a range of speaker configurations, materials, and designs, guitar cabinets offer a powerful and versatile sound suitable for any playing style and genre.
Buyer’s Guide to Guitar Cabs
If you're a passionate guitar player, you know how important it is to find the best guitar cabinets to complete your setup. A guitar cabinet, also known as a speaker cabinet or a guitar cab, is a vital component of your rig that can make a world of difference in your sound quality.
When looking for the best guitar cabinets, there are a few key features and benefits to consider.
Type of Cabinet
One of the most important features is the type of cabinet. You can choose between a closed-back cabinet or an open-back cabinet. Closed back cabinets are great for producing a tighter and more focused sound, while open-back cabinets offer a more spacious and airy sound.
For those playing guitar in a recording studio, a closed-back extension cabinet can be a great option. These cabinets can help reduce any excess room noise and keep your sound focused and clear.
Type of Speakers
Another important feature to consider is the type of speaker used in the cabinet. Celestion speakers are a popular choice among guitar players. Specifically, Celestion Vintage 30 speakers are known for their versatility and ability to handle high gain and mid-range frequencies. These speakers can be found in a variety of different guitar cabinets.
Size
Size also matters when it comes to finding the best guitar cabinets. For more powerful sound and deeper tones, larger cabs are a great option. However, if you prefer a more portable setup, smaller cabs with fewer speakers can be a better choice.
Type of Music
Finally, the type of music being played can also help determine the right guitar cab. Metal players may prefer cabinets with speaker cones that deliver a powerful low-end sound. Meanwhile, those playing with high wattage amplifiers may benefit from an angled cabinet to better project their sound.
In summary, finding the best guitar cabinets means taking into consideration the type of cabinet, the speaker used, recording needs, and the desired sound. We've covered our Top here to get you started.
Top 6 Best Guitar Cabinets and Speakers
Marshall MX212R 2x12" Guitar Speaker Cabinet
With a classic rock n' roll look and feel, the Marshall MX212R 2x12" Guitar Speaker Cabinet is a great choice for guitarists who want a traditional setup. Designed with two 12-inch Celestion Seventy 80 speakers, this cabinet can handle up to 160 watts of power and delivers a clear, crisp sound that truly shines.
Orange CRUSH PRO 4x12 Closed Back Guitar Speaker Cabinet
This cabinet is a powerhouse, specifically designed to handle the modern requirements of metal and hard rock guitarists. The Orange CRUSH PRO 4x12 comes with four Celestion Vintage 30 speakers that generate a dynamic, rich sound that is powerful and articulate. Closed back construction of these Orange cabinets helps to build up the sound pressure, providing an intense wall of sound for guitarists who prioritize volume and impact.
Fender Blues Junior Lacquered Tweed 1x12" Cabinet
The Fender Blues Junior Lacquered Tweed 1x12" Cabinet is a sleek and compact option for home guitarists, as well as professionals who tour regularly. Equipped with a 12-inch Celestion Vintage 30 speaker, this cabinet delivers rich, warm tones that are perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock music. At only 20 pounds, it is easy to transport, and its classic tweed finish adds a touch of vintage flair to any performance.
EVH 5150III 2x12" Cabinet
This cabinet is endorsed by Eddie Van Halen and is the perfect choice for guitarists who want to reproduce the iconic Van Halen sound. Featuring two 12-inch Celestion G12H Anniversary speakers, it delivers a very high-quality, balanced, and powerful sound that is suitable for rock, hard rock, and metal genres. The cabinet is constructed from birch plywood, making it solid and durable enough to survive the rigors of touring.
Fender Hot Rod Deluxe IV 1x12" Cabinet
This cabinet offers a classic Fender sound with Celestion G12P-80 speakers. Perfect for blues and country players, the Fender Hotrod Deluxe IV delivers a smooth and punchy sound that will fill any room. The closed back construction also helps to control feedback when playing in louder settings. Plus, it is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for gigging guitarists.
Peavey 6505 412 Straight Cabinet
This straight cabinet is designed for guitarists playing at high wattage and is perfect for heavy rock and metal music. It has four 12-inch Sheffield speakers that produce a tight, aggressive sound with plenty of low end punch. The Peavey 6505 412 is built from 13-ply Baltic birch plywood, making it solid enough to withstand years of heavy use. It also has metal corners and a signature grille for added strength and protection.
FAQ About Guitar Cabs
What is a guitar cabinet?
A guitar cabinet, commonly known as a guitar cab or speaker cabinet, is an enclosure designed to house speakers. It is used in conjunction with an amplifier head to produce the sound of an electric guitar.
What is the purpose of a guitar cabinet?
The purpose of a guitar cabinet is to provide the amplification of the electric guitar's sound by projecting the sound waves from the speakers.
What is an amplifier head?
An amplifier head is the top half of a guitar amplifier that provides the power to the guitar cabinet. It houses the preamp, power amp and other electronics.
What is a closed-back cabinet?
A closed-back cabinet is a guitar cabinet that has no holes or ports on the back of the cabinet. This creates a tighter bass response and a more focused sound.
Are all guitar cabinets the same size?
No, guitar cabinets come in different sizes depending on the brand, model, and intended use. Some are designed to be portable, while others are built with larger, more heavy-duty speakers for concerts.
What is the difference between a guitar cab and a speaker cab?
There is no difference between the two terms. They both refer to the same guitar cabinet used to amplify the sound of an electric guitar.
What is a Mesa Boogie guitar cabinet?
Mesa Boogie is a brand that produces high-quality guitar cabinets known for their durability and excellent sound quality. They are widely used in professional settings by musicians and recording studios alike. They can be difficult to find these days, though, which is why we didn't review any Mesa Boogie products in this article.
Can I use any type of speaker with a guitar cabinet?
No, not all speakers are created equal. It is essential to match the speaker's impedance and wattage rating to ensure that it works with the guitar cabinet and amplifier head.
What is the importance of the low-end frequency response on a guitar cabinet?
Low-end frequency response is instrumental in creating the overall tone of the electric guitar. In general, a speaker with a tight and focused low-end response will produce a clearer and more defined sound.
How can I tell if my guitar cabinet needs repair?
If your guitar cabinet produces an unusual sound, like rattling or static, or if one of the speakers is not working correctly, it is an indication that it may need repair.
How long do guitar cabinets usually last?
With proper maintenance, a well-built guitar cabinet can last for many years. Regular cleaning, proper storage, and adjustments can help prolong its lifespan.
Can guitar cabinets be used for other instruments besides guitars?
Yes, guitar cabinets can amplify other instruments besides guitars, such as keyboards, bass guitars, or electronic drums. However, it is important to ensure that the speakers' frequency response and wattage rating are suitable for the given application.
Summary of the Best Guitar Cabinets
In conclusion, guitar cabinets or speaker cabinets are an essential component of any guitar rig. They work in conjunction with amp heads (like the Hughes Kettner Tubemeister mentioned above) and guitar amps to project your guitar's sound with power and clarity.
The right speaker cab can make a world of difference in achieving the tone you desire, whether it's a classic rock crunch or a clean jazz sound.
With so many options available for guitar cabs and speakers, it's important to do your research and choose the best fit for your needs. From material choice to speaker configuration, every detail of your guitar cabinet can affect your overall sound.
Here again are our Top 6 Guitar Cabs:
Best Value for the Money: Marshall MX212R
Best for Power: Orange CRUSH PRO 4x12
Best for Vintage Sound: Fender Blues Junior 1x12 Tweed
Best for Versatility: EVH 5150III 2x12" Cabinet
Best Combo: Fender Hot Rod Deluxe IV
Best Overall: Peavey 6505 412 Straight Cabinet
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