Looking to find the best guitar cabinets to take your sound to the next level? We've been there, searching for that perfect cabinet to deliver killer tone and volume. In this guide, we'll help you find the top guitar cabinets available today.
Guitar cabinets are essential for shaping your rig's overall sound. They affect tone, volume, and performance quality. We’ll walk you through the different guitar cab sizes, explore open and closed-back designs, and highlight the best guitar cab options for 2024.
When choosing a cabinet, think about size, design, and materials. Smaller cabinets are easier to carry around, while larger ones give you a fuller sound. Ready to enhance your tone and performance? Let's dive into our top picks!
Quick Summary of the Best Guitar Cabinets
- Marshall 1960A Guitar Cabinet - Best Overall
- Orange PPC412-A Guitar Cabinet - Best Guitar Cab for Metal
- Mesa Boogie 4x12 Rectifier Guitar Cabinet - Best for Heavy Genres
- Fender Tone Master FR-12 Guitar Cabinet - Best for Digital Modelers
- Orange PPC108 Guitar Speaker Cabinet - Best Small Guitar Cabinet
- Orange Amps PPC212OB Open Back Guitar Cabinet - Best 2x12 Guitar Cabinet
- Marshall Origin 160-Watt Guitar Cabinet - Best 2x12 Cabinet for Metal
- Friedman Runt 112 Guitar Cabinet - Best 1x12 Guitar Cabinet
- EVH 5150III 1 x 12 Guitar Extension Cabinet - Best for Compact Size
- Fender Hot Rod Deluxe 112 Guitar Cabinet - Best Budget 1x12 Guitar Cabinet
What is a Guitar Cabinet?
A guitar cabinet is essential in any electric guitar setup. This box-like device houses speakers. The job of the cabinet is to project the sound coming from your amp.
You'll often find cabinets paired with amplifiers. The amp processes the guitar's signal and sends it to the cabinet. Then, the speakers in the cabinet blast out the amplified sound.
The main parts of a guitar cabinet include the speakers, enclosure, and sometimes controls. The speakers are the heart of the cabinet. They determine most of the sound quality.
The enclosure holds the speakers. Its design and materials affect the tone. We might find cabinets made from wood, which can influence resonance.
Some cabinets also feature controls. These might adjust volume or tone directly on the cabinet. However, many players use cabinets without these controls, relying on their amps for tweaking sound.
Matching the right cabinet with the right amp is crucial for getting the best sound and avoiding equipment damage. Make sure the amp's power output fits the cabinet's capacity.
Cabinets come in many sizes and types, so you can choose one that fits your sound needs. From small practice cabs to huge stage rigs, there's a perfect cabinet out there for everyone.
Best Guitar Cabinets
Here are the best guitar cabinets for your rig. Let's dive in and check out our top picks!
Marshall 1960A Guitar Cabinet
This Marshall 1960A delivers high-quality sound and performance, making it perfect for serious guitar players.
Pros
- Strong, clear sound
- Durable build for road use
- Great flexibility in mono/stereo
Cons
- Heavy to transport
- Takes up space
- Can be pricey
This cabinet fits any rig well. The sound is loud and clear, which really helps us stand out on stage. Plus, it looks cool.
When we use it in the studio, it impresses us with its pure and tight sound. The speakers handle a lot of power without losing quality, making it ideal for recording.
We also love how easy it is to switch between mono and stereo. This feature makes it simple to match with different amps and setups. For touring, this rugged build means it can handle a lot of wear and tear.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Configuration: 4 x 12
- Speakers: Celestion G12T-75
- Power Handling: 300W
- Impedance: Mono 4/16 ohms, Stereo 8 ohms per side
- Mono/Stereo: Switchable
- Cabinet Type: Angled
- Open/Closed Back: Closed
- Inputs: 2 x 1/4 inch
- Construction Material: Birch plywood
Orange PPC412-A Guitar Cabinet
This cabinet is great for those seeking rich and powerful sound.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Sturdy build
- Unique design
Cons
- Heavy to transport
- High price point
- Not suited for small stages
The Orange PPC412-A offers fantastic sound quality thanks to its four Celestion Vintage 30 speakers. The tone is rich and full, making it perfect for any serious guitarist.
Its 18-ply birch plywood shell makes it very sturdy. You can feel the quality as soon as you touch it. The unique "skid" design really helps to improve bass response and sound projection.
Moving this cabinet is tough due to its weight. It's also quite an investment. But if you need high-quality sound for larger venues, it's worth every penny.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Configuration: 4x12
- Speakers: 4 x Celestion Vintage 30
- Power Handling: 240 Watts
- Impedance: 16 ohm mono
- Mono/Stereo: Mono
- Cabinet Type: Angled
- Open/Closed Back: Closed
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4"
- Construction Material: 18mm high-density Baltic birch plywood
Mesa Boogie 4x12 Rectifier Guitar Cabinet
If you want booming low end, this cabinet has it in spades.
Pros
- Powerful low-end response
- Sturdy build quality
- Great for heavy genres
Cons
- Heavy to carry
- Takes up a lot of space
- On the pricier side
The Mesa Boogie Rectifier guitar cabinet shakes the room with its awesome low end. Playing with it feels like an experience in itself. The sound is rich, full, and exactly what you need for heavy music.
Sadly, it's quite heavy, making it a pain to move around. You'll need help or an extra strong back. Its size can also be an issue if you’re tight on space.
Price is another factor to consider. It's an investment, but for serious musicians, it's worth every penny.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Configuration: 4x12
- Speakers: Custom Celestion Vintage 30
- Power Handling: 240 watts
- Impedance: 8 ohms mono, 4 ohms stereo
- Mono/Stereo: Switchable
- Cabinet Type: Slant
- Open/Closed Back: Closed
- Inputs: 2 x 1/4"
- Construction Material: Marine-grade Baltic Birch
Fender Tone Master FR-12 Guitar Cabinet
Fender Tone Master FR-12 gives you a powerful, high-quality sound experience for any gig.
Pros
- Powerful 1,000-watt amplifier
- Lightweight and portable
- Top-mounted control section
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited customer reviews available
- Designed mainly for digital modelers
The Fender Tone Master FR-12 stands out with its 1,000-watt power. It handles most gigs effortlessly and offers a strong and clear sound.
Everyone will appreciate the lightweight black-Tolex plywood enclosure. Moving and setting up this cab is a breeze, making it perfect for gigging musicians.
We found the tilt-back legs to be incredibly useful. You can direct the sound right where you need it, making live performances much more flexible.
This cab's clear, full-range sound pairs well with various modelers. Whether used with a Fender modeler or another brand, it performs consistently and impressively.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Configuration: 1 x 12" Powered Speaker Cabinet
- Speakers: 1 x 12" driver with 1" high-frequency driver
- Power Handling: 1,000 watts
- Impedance: 8 ohms (mono)
- Mono/Stereo: Mono
- Cabinet Type: Full-range, flat-response
- Open/Closed Back: Closed
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4"
- Construction Material: Black-Tolex plywood
Orange PPC108 Guitar Speaker Cabinet
The perfect speaker cab for small spaces with punchy, clear tone and standout design.
Pros
- Compact and portable
- Classic Orange tones
- Rugged construction
Cons
- Not very loud
- Noisy at high volumes
- Limited low-end response
We’ve been using the Orange PPC108 Speaker Cabinet for our practice sessions. Its compact size makes it easy to transport and set up. This little cabinet delivers a surprisingly punchy tone.
The rugged build ensures it can handle being moved around. Plus, it has the iconic Orange look, drawing attention wherever you place it.
For small gigs and practice sessions, the PPC108 shines. It might lack the power of larger cabs but makes up with its unique sound and portability. Just plug it in and you’re ready to rock.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Configuration: 1x8"
- Speakers: 8" Custom-designed
- Power Handling: 20W
- Impedance: 8 ohms
- Mono/Stereo: Mono
- Cabinet Type: Closed-back
- Open/Closed Back: Closed
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4"
- Construction Material: Birch plywood
Orange Amps PPC212OB Open Back Guitar Cabinet
A top-notch choice for guitarists who want excellent tone and great build quality.
Pros
- Impressive sound quality
- Robust construction
- Vintage design
Cons
- Heavyweight
- Pricey
- Limited to certain music styles
We recently checked out the Orange Amps PPC212OB and we were quite impressed. The birch ply construction ensures it’s tough, while the design gives it a classic look.
This cabinet is perfect for cleaner tones. We’re talking about that iconic Orange tone that brings out the best in your music. Its split rear panel makes the sound feel more open and three-dimensional.
If you pair it with a quality head, you’ll notice the fantastic clarity. Though it’s on the heavier side, for high-quality sound, it’s worth every ounce.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Configuration: 2 x 12″
- Speakers: Celestion Vintage 30
- Power Handling: 120 Watts
- Impedance: 16 Ohms
- Mono/Stereo: Mono
- Cabinet Type: Straight
- Open/Closed Back: Open Back
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4″
- Construction Material: 18mm Birch Ply
This cab’s sturdy build and premium speakers mean you get top-tier sounds.
Marshall Origin 160-Watt Guitar Cabinet
This cabinet is a solid choice if you value great sound and vintage looks.
Pros
- Strong build quality
- Powerful sound
- Classic design
Cons
- No cover included
- Uses particle board
- Speakers could be better
We love the Marshall Origin 160-Watt Cabinet for its vintage styling and solid build. With two Celestion Seventy-80 speakers, this cabinet delivers strong, clear tones that suit many genres. The angled design makes it great for tight spaces or loud gigs.
This cabinet handles 150 watts, which gives you plenty of power. We've found it pairs well with various heads, making it quite versatile. The classic black color and Marshall logo add to the appeal, making it look as good as it sounds.
If you're after a cabinet that offers both style and substance, you can't go wrong with this one. Just know that it doesn't come with a cover or corner protectors, so you might want to buy those separately. Still, for the price and quality, it's hard to beat.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Configuration: 2 x 12"
- Speakers: Celestion Seventy-80
- Power Handling: 150W
- Impedance: 16 Ohms
- Mono/Stereo: Mono
- Cabinet Type: Angled
- Open/Closed Back: Closed Back
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4"
- Construction Material: Particle Board
Friedman Runt 112 Guitar Cabinet
The Friedman Runt 112 delivers the vintage tone and roadworthy build we all crave.
Pros
- Amazing vintage tone
- Durable construction
- Excellent low-end response
Cons
- Heavier than many cabinets
- Pricey for beginners
- Limited to front ports
The Friedman Runt 112 pairs perfectly with your Runt amp head. The 12" Celestion G12M 65 Creamback speaker delivers smooth vintage-like tones. It boasts impressive low-end response thanks to front ports.
Despite its weight, the Baltic birch build ensures durability. It might be pricey, but the sound quality is unmatched. If you seek a strong, road-ready cabinet, this one's a winner.
We used this with a Friedman Runt-20, and the sound was stellar. It's good for home recording and live gigs. The rich tone and punchy bass notes make it a favorite.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Configuration: 1 x 12" Guitar Cabinet
- Speakers: 1 Celestion G12M 65 Creamback
- Power Handling: 65 watts
- Impedance: 16 ohms
- Mono/Stereo: Mono
- Cabinet Type: Straight
- Open/Closed Back: Closed
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4"
- Construction Material: Baltic birch
EVH 5150III 1 x 12 Guitar Extension Cabinet
This cabinet delivers big tone in a compact package.
Pros
- Compact size
- Durable build
- Great tone
Cons
- Limited to 30 watts
- Single speaker
- Heavy for its size
The EVH 5150III 1 x 12-inch cabinet is a solid choice for both practice and smaller gigs. Its single 12-inch Celestion G12H speaker packs a punch. The sturdy birch plywood ensures it can handle some bumps and scrapes.
This cabinet makes transporting your gear much easier. Its size and weight are ideal for someone who moves their setup often. Despite its compact nature, the sound quality isn't compromised.
Perfect for achieving that classic Van Halen tone, this cab impresses in many ways. The EVH 5150III cab proves you don't need a massive rig for massive sound.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Configuration: 1 x 12"
- Speakers: 1 x 12" Celestion G12H
- Power Handling: 30 watts
- Impedance: 16 ohms
- Mono/Stereo: Mono
- Cabinet Type: Straight
- Open/Closed Back: Closed
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4"
- Construction Material: Birch Plywood
Fender Hot Rod Deluxe 112 Guitar Cabinet
This cabinet adds punch and clarity to your sound, making it a solid choice.
Pros
- Quality Celestion speaker
- Tight and focused sound
- Solid construction
Cons
- Limited volume control
- Bulky size
- Heavy
We found the Fender Hot Rod Deluxe 112 to deliver a rich, powerful sound. With its Celestion G12P-80 speaker, it brings out more bass response and stage presence. It's great for filling a room with music.
This cabinet excels in durability and style. The closed-back design really makes a difference. It enhances the punch and low-end resonance, making your guitar sound fuller.
Be prepared for its weight and size, though. It's not the easiest to move around, but it’s solid. If you're looking for a reliable and great-sounding extension cab, this is a good choice.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Configuration: 1 x 12"
- Speakers: Celestion G12P-80
- Power Handling: 80W
- Impedance: 8 ohms
- Mono/Stereo: Mono
- Cabinet Type: Extension Cabinet
- Open/Closed Back: Closed
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4"
- Construction Material: Solid Wood
Different Guitar Cab Sizes
Choosing the right guitar cabinet size is key. It can shape your sound and match different venues and playing styles. Each size has its own unique sound.
1x12 Guitar Cabs
1x12 guitar cabs are compact and lightweight, making them great for small gigs, practice sessions, and home studios. They deliver clear, focused sound with enough volume for smaller spaces. This size is perfect if you need something portable without sacrificing tone.
Recommended model:
These models are known for their durability and sound quality. A 1x12 cab works well in many settings, making it a versatile choice for a lot of players.
2x12 Guitar Cabs
2x12 guitar cabs strike a great balance between size and sound. They fit well in medium-sized venues and suit various music styles. These cabs offer more projection and depth than 1x12s. They are still relatively portable while providing robust sound.
Recommended model:
- Mesa/Boogie Rectifier 2x12
With a 2x12, you get versatility and impressive sound output. It's a favorite for players needing both power and portability.
4x12 Guitar Cabs
4x12 guitar cabs are powerhouses. They provide strong, full sound and are prominent on stage.
These cabs are designed for large venues and genres needing high volume and projection. They deliver deep, rich tones with unparalleled presence.
Recommended models are:
A 4x12 is ideal for serious performers. It gives you the ability to fill a large room with powerful, dynamic sound.
Open Back vs. Closed Back Guitar Cabinets: Which is Better?
When it comes to guitar cabinets, we often hear terms like open back and closed back.
Open back cabinets have an open rear. They offer a more airy and natural sound. These cabinets spread sound evenly and are great for small venues. Sound is less directional, making it feel like it's all around you.
Closed back cabinets, on the other hand, have a sealed rear. They produce a tighter, more focused sound. With these, you get more punch and bass response. They're perfect for rock and metal genres.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Open Back Cabinets:
Advantages:
- Natural sound: Matches well with clean tones.
- Wide spread: Great for filling a room.
Disadvantages:
- Less bass: Might not cut through heavy music.
- Feedback risk: Higher in loud settings.
Closed Back Cabinets:
Advantages:
- Strong bass: Gives a powerful punch.
- Focused sound: Cuts through a mix effectively.
Disadvantages:
- Directional: Might not fill a room evenly.
- Heavy: Generally bulkier and harder to move.
We need to consider our playstyle and environment. If we play clean or blues and perform in smaller spaces, open back might be our best friend. For those of us who love rock or metal and play in larger, louder venues, closed back brings the power and focus we need.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Guitar Cabinet
When choosing a guitar cabinet, several critical factors come into play. These include the size and portability of the cabinet, the speaker size and type, the impedance and wattage, and compatibility with your amplifier.
Size and Portability
Size and weight matter when picking a guitar cabinet. Smaller cabinets are easier to carry and take up less space, but they might have less sound projection.
For those frequently on the move, a lighter, smaller cabinet can be a great choice. If you mostly play in one place or have a home studio, a bigger cabinet may be worth the investment.
Portability can also influence the cabinet’s design. Check for well-placed handles and sturdy construction. Some models offer detachable wheels, making transport more manageable. Keep your needs in mind when weighing size against other features.
Speaker Size and Type
The speaker size directly affects the sound. Generally, larger speakers offer more bass and a fuller sound. Smaller speakers can produce more detailed high frequencies and are often used for a tighter, more focused tone.
Different materials like paper, hemp, or metallic alloys can change the sound. Paper cones provide a warmer, vintage tone, while metallic ones might offer a brighter, more modern sound.
It’s important to match the speaker's size and material with your playing style. A rock guitarist might prefer a 12-inch speaker with a paper cone, while a jazz player might go for a smaller, metallic option.
Impedance and Wattage
Impedance (measured in ohms) must align with your amplifier to avoid mismatches. Common impedances are 4, 8, and 16 ohms. Always check what your amp can handle before buying a cabinet.
Wattage rating indicates how much power it can handle. Match this closely with your amp’s output. For instance, an amp pushing 50 watts works best with a cabinet rated for 50 to 100 watts.
Avoid under- or over-powering the cabinet to prevent sound distortion or damage to your equipment. It’s worth spending time to understand these numbers and how they affect performance.
Compatibility with Amplifiers
Ensure the compatibility between your amp and cabinet. Aligning power ratings and technical specs is crucial. Look at the wattage and impedance ratings to make sure they match.
Check if the connecters are compatible. Some cabinets have multiple input options, increasing their flexibility with different amps.
Pay attention to the power handling and sound characteristics. The goal is to achieve a balanced sound that does not strain either the amp or the cabinet. Properly matching these will help you get the most out of your setup.
Frequently Asked Questions About Guitar Cabs
Do guitar cabinets make a difference?
Yes, they do. Guitar cabinets significantly impact the sound, tone, and volume of your guitar setup. The design, speaker type, and materials used all shape the final output. The right cabinet helps achieve your desired sound.
What is the best material for guitar cabinets?
Common materials include plywood, MDF, and solid wood. Plywood balances sound quality and durability, making it a top choice. MDF is cheaper but less durable. Solid wood offers great sound but can be very heavy and expensive.
How thick should a guitar cabinet be?
Optimal thickness for a guitar cabinet’s walls and baffle is around 3/4 inch. This thickness ensures structural integrity and good sound projection. It reduces unwanted vibrations and enhances tonal clarity.
What size guitar cab do I need?
Choosing the right size depends on your needs and playing environment. A 1x12 cab is great for home practice. A 2x12 or 4x12 is better for small gigs or large venues. Consider portability and volume requirements when choosing.
Can I mix and match different speaker brands in one cabinet?
Yes, you can mix different speaker brands in one cabinet. This can create unique tones, but it’s important to match impedance and power ratings. Experimenting with speaker combinations can be fun, just ensure compatibility for the best sound.
What is an FRFR speaker cabinet?
FRFR stands for Full Range, Flat Response. These cabinets aim to reproduce a wide range of frequencies without changing the sound. They are great for digital modeling and profiling amps, perfect for players using amp modelers and multi-effects units. Check out our top picks for the best FRFR speakers to find the perfect match for your setup.