1x12 and 2x12 Speakers. Any Tonal Difference?

[guitarsan]

Hi, a newbie question on amps/speakers.

Assuming same amp, wattage and speaker size, what difference would say a 1x12 and a 2x12 speakers make. Would a 2-speaker give a better tone (eg. presence, bass, punch, etc.) than a 1-speaker? Or is it just a matter of churning out more volume and decibel?

Thanx. :?:

 

[thor666]

Depends on a number of factors - speaker used, size and design of cabinet. A poorly designed 2x12 cabinet can sound horrible, while a oversized 1x12 can sound huge as well.

From what I read on other forums, 2x12 seems to be more recommended if you can afford the weight, volume and size. It depends what your cabinet is used for - home play, outside, etc.

 

[alamsemu]

Hi there,

If the cab quality is equal (say you're comparing Mesa Recto 1x12 and 2x12, both closed backs), if you play rock or metal, the 2x12 will suit you best, as it has a more complex and fuller sound. See, if you have two identical sound source placed in a close or very close distance, you'll get a chorus-like effect, only better. You'll also get a perceivedly louder sound. I said "perceived" because it's not really louder (as in dB), just that the sound is spread better. So, yes, better tone.

Some people don't need this kind of thing. Plus 1x12 is lighter. One thing about oversized cab though, while it sounds huge, the bass is not as tight.

On a related note, the bad thing about closed cabs is that they're very directional. I think for me the best combo would be 1x12 open cab plus 1x12 closed back thiele ported cab.