MESA Boogie 2x12 Vertical Half Back cab thiele bottom?

papersoul · Aug 27, 2011

Hey guys,

What do you all think of this cabinet? I am referring to the old half back cabs. I really would like a 412 again but we live on the third floor and I have to carry everything up and down. But I really want something with Greenbacks. But, the hell of up and down our steps.

So, I recall one of the biggest sounding 212 cabs I played was my friend's vertical half back cab. I was thinking of finding a used one and keeping the stock V30 on the bottom and installing a Celestion Lynchback up top since it is very Greenback-ish. Would I be better with a vertical Rectifier cabinet?

Thanks for the help guys!

kdorsey · Aug 27, 2011

At least in mine, they came stock with EVs in the bottom and C90s in the top. I've since swapped the EVs for C90s and absolutely love them. I play more classic rock with lots of drive but not a ton of gain, so the cabs generate a buttload of bottom end. I also play two of those 2x12s stacked. That's a very transportable 4x12 option with huge bass for their size. A V30 in the bottom has been an option for me, but I'm not unhappy enough to make the change.

These cabs are almost as big as a 4x12. That volume translates into big big sound. They are a good 4x12 replacement but good luck finding one, there aren't many out there.

Good luck! 8)

papersoul · Aug 27, 2011

Maybe I should just get a used Mesa Vert Recto cab. I can always install a custom back that is partially open.

babow2 · Aug 28, 2011

HIya,
FWIW, I owned both the 2x12 and 4x12 open/closed back cabs from the 80's at the same time. The 2x12 is actually only about 4" narrower than the 4x12. It is damn near the same size. I do realize that you don't have the extra two speakers, and associated weight, but the cabs weren't light and you have nearly as much wood, wheels and parts. So, you might be surprised that hauling the 2x12 isn't much of a savings in weight. Just a different perspective.

papersoul · Aug 29, 2011

babow2 said:
HIya,
FWIW, I owned both the 2x12 and 4x12 open/closed back cabs from the 80's at the same time. The 2x12 is actually only about 4" narrower than the 4x12. It is damn near the same size. I do realize that you don't have the extra two speakers, and associated weight, but the cabs weren't light and you have nearly as much wood, wheels and parts. So, you might be surprised that hauling the 2x12 isn't much of a savings in weight. Just a different perspective.

True, they are heavy! My Bogner 212 is about 68 lbs but much easier to lug than a 412. I decided to buy a used Marshall 412.