2x12 vert or 4x12 ... that is the question

[Beret]

Hey Guys,

I'm going to think out loud and solicit input. Read at your leisure I currently have a number of cabinets (2x12s and 1x12s) and I'm looking to get one more. I'm currently toying with either a Mesa 2x12 rectifier vertical or a Mesa 4x12 rectifier traditional (now called a stiletto).

I'm looking for something that projects a little volume my way without a stand or tilting anything back - and something that my heads can sit on (primary being a Mesa/Boogie Roadster).

I have a Mesa 2x12 horizontal rectifier cabinet that aside from being a little boomy, rocks. It sounds great mic'ed up with a '57 and I usually have it sitting on something or on a stand that takes the low end down to a reasonable level. Part of me says a 2x12 is all I'll ever need so just get the vertical 2x12 which supports the head just fine, doesn't require a stand and will project above my ankles. It should also have a little less low end (still a lot) which will be fine.

The other part of me says I should buy a 4x12 and be done with it. The rare occasion when I can exercise my larger setup I'll really enjoy it and since I have a 2x12 already, it somewhat doesn't make sense to buy a vertical 2x12 that I won't even be able to stack.

I play out regularly but not often requiring my bigger rig so I care about weight but not to a large extent.

So... what say ye?

P.S. I know a lot of you will say "no buy this cabinet instead" but I'm really not looking for cabinet suggestions as much as experience with 4x12 versus not. Will I regret not going with a 4x12?

~B

 

[some dude]

It's been a long time since I've seen one in person, but from what I remember the Vert 2x12 is bigger than the Horizontal 2x12, and thus isn't a one handed carry like the Horizontal 2x12. IMO, if you're going to have to deal with a more awkward cab you might as well make it worth your while and get another two more speakers out of it.

That said, it might be worth sampling the cabs you want and hearing which one you prefer the sound of. The Recto 4x12 for instance sounds pretty similar to the 2x12 with a noticeable difference in the mids rather than the bottom end (the Recto 4x12 has more mids and the 2x12 is more scooped). Not totally sure how the Traditional compares in as I've never A/B'd them.

 

[blackba]

My vote is for the 412, it sounds like it is more what you want. I had the mesa metal grill halfback 212 (I know different than the mesa cab you are looking at) and it was just as bulky to move as my 412 and didn't sound as good.

I am sure you know this, but you can always run a horizontal 212 on its side. I do that all the time....

 

[The Hoff]

Sounds like a slanted 4x12 is what you're looking for. Vote for an oversized Mesa 4x12.

 

[Beret]

I am sure you know this, but you can always run a horizontal 212 on its side. I do that all the time....

Yeah, I just can't put my head on top if it's on its side.

~B

 

[blackba]

I am sure you know this, but you can always run a horizontal 212 on its side. I do that all the time....

Yeah, I just can't put my head on top if it's on its side.

~B

I put my head on top the horrizontal 212 when its on its side. If it hangs over, I don't care. I will say that all my heads are small box heads, so I am sure that makes a difference.

 

[RSRD]

Sounds like a slanted 4x12 is what you're looking for.

most definitely. the top half tilts to your ears and the bottom half gives you that thumping low end.

4X12s just push that air that you can't get from the 2s. Love both sizes though.

 

[Beret]

FWIW - I found this very useful - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f22Nsx6pHp8

~B