New cab in the studio

[talltxguy]

I picked up a new Tourmaster 2X12 to replace a smaller Mesa cab I had been using in my home studio. Even though I got rid of my 2X12 Roadster combo a while ago, I really dug the 2X12 configuration as it was my first 2X12. Unfortunately, I didn't think the Roadster's cab was quite big enough; and a removable panel was not an option. I've went through quite a few different types of cabs and stumbled upon the Egnater 2X12 Tourmaster.

Thanks to Egnater for the holiday $50 off. Zzounds gave me free shipping, which is pretty generous considering the size of this beast. I'm really looking forward to trying it out! I'm still waiting on a choke to be installed on my TA-15, so I can't comment on how the Tourmaster sounds. It's a beautiful cab that has a removable back plate, which is something that I really was wanting. I've actually went so far as to make my own backplates for a few cabs I've owned, which has been effective soundwise but miserable in the aesthetics department.

I've never played through the Elite 80's or anything similar to them, so I'm stoked to check them out! I understand there will be a break-in period as with any new speakers. Luckily, I've got a couple weeks off soon, so I can start working on that.

 

[rlord1974]

Please report back - I am interested to hear more about this cabinet as I am thinking of picking one up for grab 'n go situations where a 4x12" is just more than I need.....

Thx

 

[mboogman]

I actually really like the Elite 80's. I've got a quad of them in a Marshall 1982b 4x12 cab (same size as the 1960b) and I really like the results I'm getting. Sounds good with my Mesa preamp, and all of the Egnater mods. Sounds REALLY great with my Gerlitz (think dimed plexi and fender deluxe in one amp). I'd used V30's for a while and then moved to T75's, bet they both seemed to have preferences. The 80's seem more neutral, and easy to get along with multiple preamps.

 

[talltxguy]

The cab sounds great for not being broken in! I've probably got 40 hours on the cab so far, and half of those hours are high volume playing! I was getting very nice Metallica chunking going with the closed back, which is pretty good for a TA-15 (2 EL84s) head. Santana type solo tones sounded sweet. AC/DC licks worked well. And even the clean sounds were good with the closed back.

I removed the back panel and like the cleans even more - go figure. I enjoy soloing better with the back cover off but prefer the cover on when playing distorted rhythms.

This cab is large and produces large tones. I pushed the hell out of my little TA-15 and got some very nice tones with this cab. I had no probems keeping up with a drummer and a bassist in rehearsal with no mics.

This is my first experience with Elite 80 speakers, and I dig them because I feel like they are very versatile. I haven't discovered any weak points. I don't know what the sensitivity of these speakers is, but it's gotta be in the same ballpark as the Vintage 30. These speakers can get pretty loud! I feel like these are every bit as dynamic as the Vintage 30's as well. The Elite 80s seem a bit more tonally rounded than a Vintage 30. These speakers are rated at 80 watts, which I'll never have to worry about with my little TA-15! I've always preferred playing speakers that are rated louder (as opposed to Greenbacks or G12H's, etc.) because I do play clean half the time.

I did read that some people had to order casters for their 2X12 Tourmaster. My casters were included. Just dig in the bottom of the gigantic shipping box to find them. The casters are a nice touch and help out as this cab does weigh a few pounds! They look sturdy and slipped right on with no probs.

I would strongly recommend this cab. I purchased this cab from Zzounds for $399.95 with free ground shipping. I don't think you will find a 2X12 of this quality and versatility for less. I was looking at a Mesa 2X12 Electra Dyne cab, but I can't see dropping $619 for one - especially since I can't find one to try! I have played through a Mesa 2X12 3/4 back cab, which sounds great and can be had for $589. The problem with both Mesas is that I sometimes want a closed back. And yeah, I've made closed backs before, but they lack the looks of the Egnater closed back.

No cover for the cab, which is really my only complaint. But I can get over that one.