Yes in bass cabinets size does matter. However, bigger isn't always better. As important to a bass player as an amplifier is the speaker setup. When it comes to speakers, making the right choice can mean the difference between accurate and sloppy bass frequency production.

The prime factor in choosing speakers is the size. One common misconception is that bass players require bigger speakers to compensate for the lower ranges. In reality, the speaker choice depends on the playing style and desires of the bassist. Smaller speakers, such as the 10-inch, perform great in tight, accurate situations, such as in slapping and picking.

If the speaker is too small, such as an 8-inch, it will produce an overly snappy, unflinching tone. For general play, a 12-inch or 15-inch arrangement is best, as the tone will be broader and more versatile. However, sometimes large is too large, as with an 18-inch speaker. 18-inch models produce an unsuitable heavy, sloppy tone.

To cover the entire spectrum of bass frequencies, musicians utilize a combination of speakers for best results. In some cases, multiple speakers can be contained in the same enclosure, labeled as 2 x 10" for example. A typical setup includes a 15-inch to contain the low-end, dual 10-inch speakers to handle the punch and midrange, and tweeters above to handle high pitches.

With all bass speakers, the enclosure is as important as the cones themselves. In order to achieve a good response, the cabinet needs to be large enough to facilitate airflow. With a guitar cabinet, the open back would cause the assembly to literally rip itself apart. However, in a bass cabinet, a closed space provides a measure of air resistance to the moving speaker, particularly at lower frequencies when more strain is involved. Specifically, a device known as a port tube moderates the movement of air in the enclosure and thus backpressure on the diaphragm.

With a bass speaker, the grid is one of the most important features. As the cones are very large and can be easily damaged by debris, bass speaker cabinets utilize rigid metal grids to shield the diaphragm. Unlike woven mesh grids used in guitar amps that can break, bass amp grids are resilient and will handle all of the bumps and bruises while on the road.

In addition to the metal grid, the use of metal edges on the enclosure is vital. As the speaker enclosures are often stacked for better performance, the metal edges help stabilize the devices and prevent unnecessary wear and tear. In addition, the metal caps are great for preventing damage while moving the cabinets.

All in all, choosing the right speakers is as important as choosing the right amp when it comes to bass. By picking the right combination of sizes, you're sure to achieve the entire range of any bass in stunning detail.

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Combo Amps Versus Head And Cabinet

In the world of bass equipment, few devices can differentiate a musician like their amplifier setup. From massive, mega-watt beasts able to flood an auditorium to small arrangements for a studio gig, today's bass musician has a wide array of options to choose from. Perhaps the biggest question is this: combo or separate?

With a combo amp, the electronics and speaker are contained in one unit, whereas separate arrangements consist of a head and cabinet. The head contains all of the electronics necessary for distortion, amplification, and processing, while the cabinet contains the speaker(s).

For those who play in large or open areas and need the power, then a separate setup is necessary. With a separate arrangement, one can configure it in accordance with the venue for best results.

Separate Head and Cabinet: Pros

• Allows the musician to mix and match depending on the situation. In some cases, specialized head units are offered with features unavailable in any combo unit.
• Easier Maintenance - Combo unit repairs are difficult due to proprietary manufacturer builds, and can therefore be expensive. With a separate head and cabinet, making repairs is easy as the devices aren't permanently attached.
• Weight - The cabinet and head can be lifted separately

Separate Head and Cabinet: Cons

• Price - Separate head and cabinet units can be expensive
• Fragile - The head can be damaged easier as it is not contained in a combo-type enclosure

For studio gigs or practice, the combo unit is the veritable Swiss Army knife of today's bass player. Unlike a separate amp, the electronics and speaker(s) are enclosed in a common box.

Combo Unit: Pros

• Price - Combo units are usually cheaper than buying the components separately
• Transport - The contained setup allows for easier loading and unloading
• Sound Quality - In most cases, the same as a separate head cabinet arrangement
• Wattage - Depending on the combo unit, the power can be the same as a separate arrangement

Combo Unit: Cons

• Upgrades - Unable to swap out electronics and speakers, must purchase a new combo in the event of an upgrade
• Range - With a separate head and cabinet arrangement, extra speakers can be added in to compensate for range fluctuations, but a combo amp is limited to the stock configuration

Regardless of which route you choose to go. You can find the best deal on a bass amp of your choice at The Bass Amp