Convert Semi Open 2x12 to Closed, Oval, or 1/3rd?

[Junk Yard Dog]

I am thinking to experiment with my Dr. Z semi-open back 2x12 cab. It is pretty solid and sounds great with 2 G12H 30's, so 60 watts, 8 ohms and I play it through my EVH 5153 50w.

I compared it to my friends Mesa 2x12 last weekend and mine was more open with lots of great 3-D sound and also bass, especially via the Resonance switch on the back. ...But his seemed to be louder. We played all volume and EQ settings the same and his was slightly louder, but it also has 2 V30's and was very harsh and piercing, but it was brand new.

I'm thinking of mixing a V30 with my G12H 30, but I also want to experiment with different backs fore the cab. We would swap speakers, so he has the same mix as I; we are band mates.

The dimensions are 32" H x 20" W x 11" D. The semi-open cab is 6.25". I've read that the ideal semi-open gaps are 1) Oval, 2) 1/3, 3) 4".

I may go to home depot and get cuts for...

1) a full oval back panel
2) 6.25" to make it fully closed, convertible
3) 2 panels to make the gap only 4" instead of 6.25"
4) 1 panel just to close ONE of the speakers, like if I put the V30 on the bottom and closed it up, does that make sense?

What do you guys think of these ideas?

Thanks!

 

[tripstan]

When I use a open back I use an oval. I use to use a Dr Z 6545 and a Z best cloned cab with a oval back. I loved it. Nice open 3-D sounding and it still had good thump. You might like closing one side since you have a divider, and leaving the other semi open. Personally I've moved on to closed back cabs, but I still miss open backs for clean to slight break up. You can look at the Two-Rock cabs to give you an idea of a nice oval open back. Hard Turck makes some really nice open back cabs too.

 

[snowdog]

Another idea to consider is something like the old Mesa cabinets that have one half of the cabinet closed back and the other open.

You are on the right road experimenting, that way you can find out what you like.

 

[Junk Yard Dog]

Yeah, I've got a friend who doesn't home remodel and can help with all of the cuts. I also think my buddy's cab was louder bc he has the V30's.

Still I think it will be fun to playl the options.

Any other thoughts or experiences? Thanks!