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View Full Version : Two Combos or Two Heads/One Cab?


minjason
11-28-2011, 09:30 PM
I've always been a combo guy, but I've recently been thinking about the possibility of going the head/cab route. Don't have the finances yet, but when I can save up a bit, I plan on getting two amps to switch off with depending on power needs, venue size, etc. I don't plan on running the amps in stereo (just not a feasible option at most of the venues I play). If two heads/two cabs were not an option, would you guys get two 1X12 combos to switch off or two heads and one 1X12 cab loaded with a speaker that sounds good on both?

Just sold my Morgan DAG15, but once I can afford another, I'd love to own it again. So basically, here are my choices:

RCA35 1X12 combo w/ ASW KTS-70 and DAG15 1X12 combo w/ Blue
OR
RCA35 and DAG15 small box heads and one 1X12 cab loaded with an ASW KTS-70.

What would you guys do?

GAT
11-28-2011, 09:36 PM
I use a CAE head switcher for two heads into one cab at smaller gigs. I use one head for strats and one head for humbuckers. When I change guitars I hit the footswitch which changes the heads. Very slick.

minjason
11-28-2011, 09:45 PM
I use a CAE head switcher for two heads into one cab at smaller gigs. I use one head for strats and one head for humbuckers. When I change guitars I hit the footswitch which changes the heads. Very slick.

Interesting...I hadn't thought of this, but it sounds like it might be a great option for me...I will definitely check out the CAE head switcher!

GAT
11-28-2011, 09:47 PM
Great unit, one rack space. Bob Bradshaw's work is great.

I use a 2x12 cab and two heads, so the footprint is small and since I have two heads I have my backup ready should something happen to one.

I tried the Radial head switcher, but I had to send two units back because they never worked properly.

GCDEF
11-29-2011, 06:58 AM
I think you're overthinking it. The difference in volume between one and two amps isn't that great. It's more that you just get a fatter sound. Power requirements among different sized venues should be handled by the PA. For performance, it's best not to over-complicate your rig. Just turn your amp up or down as necessary.

tonegangster
11-29-2011, 07:03 AM
Started going more towards seperate heads and cabs myself. Different size options and a whole lot easier to carry!!

Boytbpc
11-29-2011, 07:33 AM
I did combos for a long time, then finally moved to the head/cab camp and I couldn't be happier. First, if you use the same cab with multiple heads, the savings start to add up. Second, moving a cab + head is often easier than a combo. Finally, most venues/practice spaces/jams with friends I attend have a cab already there, thus reducing what I need to bring.

minjason
11-29-2011, 07:44 AM
yeah i'm definitely leaning towards going the head/cab route. to clarify, i would not be taking both amps with me to gigs (hadn't considered the head switcher option till GAT mentioned it). I would choose one (either combo or one head/cab) to take with me depending on the nature of the show...