Guitar Speaker Cabinet Australia

Guitar Speaker Cabinet FAQs

What is a guitar speaker cabinet?

A guitar speaker cabinet, often called a "cabinet" or "cab," is an integral part of an electric guitar amplification system. It is a wooden or composite enclosure designed to house one or more loudspeakers (or guitar speakers) that project the sound produced by an electric guitar amplifier head. The primary purpose of a guitar speaker cabinet is to convert the electrical signal from the amplifier into audible sound waves.

Here are some key aspects of a guitar speaker cabinet:

1. Housing for Speakers: The cabinet contains one or more specialised guitar speakers that are designed to handle the specific frequencies produced by an electric guitar. These speakers are different from regular hi-fi or PA speakers, as they are optimised for the tonal characteristics of guitars.
2. Size and Configuration: Guitar speaker cabinets come in various sizes and configurations. The most common types are 1x12", 2x12", 4x12", and 4x10". The first number denotes the number of speakers, and the second number indicates the speaker's diameter in inches. For example, a 2x12 cabinet has two 12-inch speakers. The choice of cabinet size can affect the overall sound and projection of the guitar.
3. Construction: Cabinets are typically constructed from plywood or other sturdy materials to withstand the rigours of live performances and transportation. They are often covered in Tolex (a durable vinyl material) and equipped with corner protectors and handles for easy handling.
4. Speaker Wiring: The speakers inside the cabinet are wired in specific configurations, such as series or parallel, to achieve the desired impedance (ohms) and power handling capabilities. This wiring configuration should match the amplifier's requirements.
5. Tonal Characteristics: Different cabinets can have distinct tonal characteristics. Factors like the type of wood used, the cabinet's design, and the number of speakers can all influence the overall sound. Musicians often choose cabinets that complement their playing style and the sound they wish to achieve.
6. Sound Projection: The cabinet plays a crucial role in shaping the guitar's sound. The direction and dispersion of sound waves from the speakers can be adjusted by positioning the cabinet on the stage. Many guitarists prefer to angle the cabinet upward for better projection towards their ears.
7. Matching with Amplifiers: Guitar speaker cabinets are typically paired with an amplifier head, which provides the electrical signal to drive the speakers. It's essential to match the impedance (ohms) of the cabinet with the amplifier to ensure proper operation and avoid damage to both the amplifier and the cabinet.

In summary, a guitar speaker cabinet is a critical component of an electric guitar amplification setup, working in tandem with an amplifier head to convert electrical signals into audible guitar tones. The choice of cabinet size, speaker configuration, and design can significantly influence the sound produced by the guitar rig. 

How does a guitar speaker cabinet work?

A guitar speaker cabinet converts the electrical audio signal generated by an electric guitar amplifier head into audible sound waves. Here's a simplified explanation of how it operates:

1. Amplified Audio Signal: The process begins with the electric guitar. When you play the guitar, the pickups on the instrument convert the vibration of the guitar strings into an electrical signal. This weak electrical signal is then sent to the amplifier head.
2. Signal Amplification: The amplifier head takes the incoming electrical signal and amplifies it to a level that is suitable for driving the speakers. It also shapes the tone of the signal using various controls, such as EQ settings, gain, and effects.
3. Output to the Cabinet: The amplified audio signal from the amplifier head is then sent to the speaker cabinet through a speaker cable. The cable is connected to the amplifier's speaker output jack, and the other end is plugged into the cabinet's input.
4. Speaker Transduction: Inside the cabinet are one or more specialised guitar speakers. These speakers are designed with a cone made of paper, plastic, or other materials that can rapidly vibrate back and forth in response to the electrical signal's fluctuations.
5. Sound Wave Generation: As the electrical signal fluctuates, it causes the speaker's cone to move in and out. This movement creates pressure variations in the air (sound waves) that correspond to the audio signal's waveform.
6. Sound Projection: The generated sound waves radiate outwards from the front of the speaker cabinet. The cabinet's design, including its shape and speaker placement, affects the dispersion and directionality of the sound. Guitarists often position the cabinet on stage to ensure the best projection of sound towards their intended audience.
7. Audible Sound: The sound waves the speakers produce are what we hear as the amplified guitar sound. The characteristics of the cabinet, such as the type and number of speakers, the cabinet's size, and the speaker's wattage and impedance, influence the tonal qualities and volume of the sound.
8. Microphone and Amplification (Optional): In live performance or recording settings, a microphone may be placed in front of the speaker cabinet to capture the sound for amplification through a PA system or recording equipment. This allows for further control over the sound and facilitates mixing in larger venues or studio recordings.

In essence, a guitar speaker cabinet functions as a transducer, converting the electrical signal from the amplifier head into mechanical vibrations of the speaker cone, producing audible sound waves. The design and components of the cabinet, along with the amplifier settings and the guitar itself, collectively contribute to the final tone and character of the amplified guitar sound. 

Which artists use a guitar speaker cabinet?

Many artists across various music genres use guitar speaker cabinets as a fundamental part of their amplification setups. These cabinets are commonly used in rock, blues, metal, jazz, country, and other styles of music. It's important to note that specific artists may prefer different cabinet brands, sizes, and speaker configurations to achieve their desired tones. Here are a few well-known artists who have used guitar speaker cabinets:

1. Jimi Hendrix: The legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix often used Marshall speaker cabinets, particularly the 4x12" models, as part of his iconic setup. His use of Marshall cabinets and amplifiers significantly shaped the sound of classic rock and psychedelia.
2. Angus Young (AC/DC): Angus Young of AC/DC is known for his high-energy guitar playing. He typically uses a Marshall amplifier stack with 4x12" cabinets. This setup contributes to the band's powerful and crunchy sound.
3. Eddie Van Halen: The late Eddie Van Halen was famous for his innovative guitar techniques and tone. He often used cabinets loaded with Celestion speakers and worked with companies like Peavey and EVH to design his signature amplifier and cabinet setups.
4. Eric Clapton: The "Slowhand" Eric Clapton has used a variety of guitar speaker cabinets throughout his career. He's known for using various Fender amplifiers, cabinets, and other brands to achieve different tones for blues and rock styles.
5. Metallica: Metallica's lead guitarist Kirk Hammett and rhythm guitarist James Hetfield have used Mesa/Boogie cabinets, among other brands. Often paired with high-gain amplifiers, these cabinets contribute to Metallica's heavy and aggressive sound.
6. B.B. King: The late B.B. King, a blues legend, used various amplifier and cabinet setups over the years. His classic sound often involved using Fender amplifiers and cabinets, such as the Fender Twin Reverb.
7. John Mayer: Contemporary blues and rock artist John Mayer is known for using custom PRS amplifiers and cabinets as part of his signature tone.
8. Stevie Ray Vaughan: The late Stevie Ray Vaughan is revered for his powerful blues guitar playing. He used Fender amplifiers and cabinets, including the Fender Vibroverb, contributing to his distinctive tone.
9. Keith Richards (The Rolling Stones): Keith Richards has used various guitar speaker cabinets, including models from Marshall and other brands. His classic rock sound is closely associated with the use of iconic cabinets.
10. Joe Bonamassa: Blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa often uses various vintage and boutique amplifiers and cabinets to achieve his versatile tones.

These are just a few examples, and countless other artists in various genres use guitar speaker cabinets as part of their signature sound. The choice of cabinet, amplifier, and guitar plays a crucial role in shaping an artist's unique tone and style.

What types of guitar speaker cabinets are there? 

Guitar speaker cabinets come in various types, each with its characteristics and intended uses. The choice of cabinet type can significantly influence the tone and projection of the guitar. Here are some common types of guitar speaker cabinets:

                  Open-Back Cabinets:

• Open-back cabinets have an opening or vent on the back of the cabinet, allowing sound to escape from the front and back.
• They often have a more airy and spacious sound, with less low-end emphasis.
• Open-back cabinets are favoured for clean and chimey tones and for achieving a sense of depth and room ambience.
  
  Closed-Back Cabinets:

• Closed-back cabinets are fully sealed, with no openings on the back. All sound is projected from the front of the cabinet.
• They typically produce a tighter low-end response and enhanced projection of midrange frequencies.
• Closed-back cabinets are commonly used for rock, metal, and heavier styles of music, as they provide a focused and punchy sound.
  
  Semi-Open Back Cabinets:

• Semi-open back cabinets combine elements of both open-back and closed-back designs. They have a partial opening or vent on the back.
• These cabinets compromise between the characteristics of open and closed-back cabinets, providing a balance of low-end warmth and midrange punch.
  
  Isolation Cabinets:

• Isolation cabinets are designed to reduce the volume of a guitar amplifier while still allowing for authentic tube amplifier tones.
• They are often used for recording or playing when loud volumes are not feasible. Isolation cabinets use internal baffling to capture and direct sound away from the guitarist.
  
  Slant Cabinets:

• Slant cabinets have a tilted top panel, which angles the speakers upward toward the player.
• They are commonly used in large stage setups to help the guitarist hear their sound better, especially when standing in front of the cabinet.
  
  Straight Cabinets:

• Straight cabinets have a flat top panel and project sound straight ahead.
• They are often preferred for their aesthetic simplicity and may be used when a slanted cabinet is unnecessary.
  
  Micro Cabinets:

• Micro cabinets are compact and lightweight cabinets, often with smaller speaker sizes (e.g., 1x8" or 1x10").
• They are suitable for practice, studio recording, or situations where portability is crucial.
  
  Multi-Speaker Cabinets:

• Cabinets can have different speaker configurations, such as 1x12", 2x12", or 4x12".
• Multi-speaker cabinets offer varying tonal characteristics, with larger configurations typically providing more volume and a fuller sound.
  
  Vintage Cabinets:

• Vintage-style cabinets are designed to replicate the look and sound of classic amplifier cabinets from the past, often using vintage-style speakers and materials.
  
  Custom and Boutique Cabinets:

• Many boutique and custom builders offer unique and specialised guitar speaker cabinets with high-quality components, craftsmanship, and custom features to meet specific tonal preferences.

The guitar speaker cabinet type choice depends on the guitarist's playing style, tonal goals, and specific musical requirements. It's common for guitarists to experiment with different cabinet types to find the one that best complements their playing and sound preferences.

What are the best guitar speaker cabinet brands in Australia?

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the reputation and availability of guitar speaker cabinet brands can vary by region, and there may have been changes or new developments since then. In Australia, several brands are well-regarded for their guitar speaker cabinets, including those you mentioned. Here's an overview of these brands:

1. KEMPER: Kemper is known for its innovative Profiling Amp technology, which lets guitarists digitally capture and replicate the sound of various amplifiers and cabinets. While Kemper is more renowned for its amplifier profiling technology, it also offers a range of Kemper Kabinet products designed to complement their profiling amps.
2. LINE 6: Line 6 is recognised for its modelling amplifiers and effects processors. The Line 6 Powercab series offers a range of speaker cabinets designed to pair with Line 6 modelling products, providing a versatile platform for emulating different amplifier and speaker combinations.
3. MARSHALL: Marshall is among the most iconic and respected names in the guitar amplifier and cabinet industry. Marshall cabinets, particularly the 4x12" models, are widely used by rock and metal guitarists. In Australia, you can find a variety of Marshall speaker cabinets available through authorised dealers.
4. ORANGE: Orange Amplifiers is known for its distinctive, high-quality amplifiers and speaker cabinets. Orange cabinets are revered for their unique sound and aesthetics. In Australia, you should be able to find Orange speaker cabinets in various configurations and sizes.
5. VOX: Vox is well-regarded for its classic amplifier designs and speaker cabinets. Vox cabinets, often used with Vox AC series amplifiers, deliver the iconic British tone associated with bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. You can typically find Vox cabinets at music stores in Australia.

When evaluating which brand is the "best" for you, it largely depends on your preferences, playing style, and the specific sound you seek. Consider factors like the type of music you play, your budget, and whether you're looking for a particular tonal character or speaker configuration. Additionally, trying out different cabinets in person is essential to determine which one best suits your needs and complements your amplifier.

Remember that the availability of specific models and brands may vary by location and over time, so it's a good idea to check with local music stores or online retailers in Australia to see which brands and models are currently available. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations from fellow guitarists can help you make an informed decision.

If you're looking for a guitar speaker cabinet, even on a tight budget, buy online today or get in touch with the friendly Coleman's Music team and our stores in Melbourne CBD, with fast online Guitar Combo Amp shipping all over Australia or give us a call on (03) 9799 5400 with any questions, we're always happy to help! 

What kinds of settings do guitar speaker cabinets have?

Guitar speaker cabinets themselves don't typically have settings in the same way that amplifiers or effects pedals do. Instead, the settings and controls for shaping your guitar's sound primarily come from the amplifier head or the amp modeller you're using. However, there are a few factors related to the cabinet itself that can indirectly affect your guitar tone:

1. Speaker Configuration: This refers to the number and size of speakers in the cabinet, such as 1x12", 2x12", 4x12", etc. Different configurations can produce varying tonal characteristics, with larger cabinets often providing more volume and low-end response.
2. Speaker Type: The type of speakers used in the cabinet can significantly impact your tone. Various speaker brands and models have distinct tonal qualities. For example, Celestion, Eminence, Jensen, and others each offer different speaker options with unique sonic characteristics.
3. Cabinet Material: The type of wood or material used to construct the cabinet can affect resonance and tonal qualities. Common materials include plywood, MDF (medium-density fiberboard), and solid wood. Each has its sonic properties.
4. Porting or Venting: Some cabinets, especially open-back and semi-open-back designs, may have vents or openings on the back to alter the cabinet's resonance and low-end response. Closed-back cabinets, on the other hand, are fully sealed.
5. Speaker Wiring and Impedance: While not a "setting" per se, how the speakers are wired inside the cabinet can affect the cabinet's overall impedance. Matching the cabinet's impedance with your amplifier's requirements is crucial to ensure proper operation.
6. Microphone Placement: In a studio or live sound situation, the placement of microphones in front of the cabinet can also affect the tone. The mic's position relative to the speaker's cone and cabinet can yield different tonal qualities.

While these factors aren't adjustable settings like those found on an amplifier or pedal, they are aspects of the guitar speaker cabinet that you can consider when shaping your overall guitar tone. However, the primary tone-shaping controls and settings are typically found on your signal chain's amplifier, amp modeller, or effects pedals. These settings include:

1. Gain/Drive: Controls the level of distortion or overdrive in your guitar signal.
2. Equalisation (EQ): Adjust the bass, midrange, and treble frequencies to shape your tone.
3. Volume: Sets the overall output level of your amplifier.
4. Reverb and Effects: If your amplifier has built-in effects, you can adjust parameters like reverb, delay, chorus, and more.
5. Master Volume: Some amplifiers have a separate master volume control that allows you to control the overall loudness while keeping the gain or distortion level consistent.
6. Channel Switching: Multi-channel amplifiers allow you to switch between different preamp voicings or gain levels.
7. Presence and Resonance: These controls can affect your amplifier's overall "presence" and low-end response.
8. Cabinet Simulation: You can simulate different cabinet types and speaker combinations in digital modelling amplifiers or amp modellers.

It's essential to experiment with these settings on your amplifier or modelling unit, along with your choice of guitar and pedal effects, to create the desired guitar tone for your music. 

Are guitar speaker cabinets good value? 

Whether a guitar speaker cabinet represents good value depends on several factors, including your needs, budget, and preferences. Here are some considerations to help you determine if a guitar speaker cabinet is a good value for you:

1. Musical Goals: Consider your musical goals and playing style. Investing in a high-quality guitar speaker cabinet can be a wise decision if you're a professional musician who frequently performs live or records in a studio. A reliable cabinet is essential for achieving the desired tone and projection.
2. Budget: Your budget plays a significant role in determining value. High-quality, reputable speaker cabinets can be expensive, especially from well-known brands. However, there are also more budget-friendly options available that can still deliver satisfactory performance.
3. Tonal Requirements: Think about the specific tonal qualities you're looking for. Different cabinets, with varying speaker configurations and materials, can produce different tones. It can be considered good value if a particular cabinet aligns with your tonal preferences.
4. Build Quality: Consider the construction and build quality of the cabinet. High-quality cabinets are often more durable and less prone to wear and tear. A well-built cabinet can provide long-term value by lasting for many years.
5. Brand Reputation: Reputable brands often provide better customer support, warranty coverage, and consistent quality control. While products from established brands may be more expensive, they can offer better long-term value and peace of mind.
6. Matching with Amplifier: Ensure that the cabinet you choose is compatible with your amplifier in terms of impedance and power handling. Mismatching can lead to poor performance or damage to your equipment.
7. Usage Frequency: Consider how often you'll use the cabinet. Investing in a high-quality cabinet may be justified if you're a professional gigging musician or a recording artist. For occasional use or practice, a more budget-friendly option may suffice.
8. Alternative Solutions: In some cases, alternative solutions like amp modellers or cab simulators can provide cost-effective ways to achieve a variety of tones without the need for traditional speaker cabinets.

Ultimately, the value of a guitar speaker cabinet is a subjective judgment based on your individual needs and circumstances. What may be a good value for one guitarist may not be the same for another. Do your research, try out different cabinets if possible, and consider how well a particular cabinet aligns with your musical goals and budget before deciding. Reading reviews, seeking recommendations, and consulting with fellow musicians can provide valuable insights into finding the right cabinet for your needs.

Where do I buy a guitar speaker cabinet in the Melbourne CBD or online in Sydney, Brisbane, Hobart, Canberra, Adelaide or anywhere else in Australia?

If you're looking for a guitar speaker cabinet, even on a tight budget, buy online today or get in touch with the friendly Coleman's Music team and our stores in Melbourne CBD, with fast online Guitar Combo Amp shipping all over Australia or give us a call on (03) 9799 5400 with any questions, we're always happy to help!