Best Empty 1×12 Cabinet

Best Empty 1×12 Cabinet. An empty 1×12 cabinet is a great way to add versatility to your guitar setup. You can use it with a variety of different speakers.

Hi. Ian here and welcome to this article!

Are you a guitar player looking for the best empty 1×12 speaker cabinet? If so, you’re in the right place!

In this article, I’m going to share with you my top picks for the best empty 1×12 speaker cabinets on the market from the following companies:

Orange
Marshall
Mesa Boogie
Monoprice
Avatar

I’ve also included a buyer’s guide to help you choose the right cabinet for your needs.

Here are my top picks for the best empty 1×12 speaker cabinets:

Orange PPC112C
Marshall MX112A
Mesa Boogie Recto Slant Cab
Monoprice Stage Right 1×12 Cabinet
Avatar 1×12 Guitar Cabinet

When choosing an empty 1×12 speaker cabinet, here are a few things you might want to keep in mind:

Wood type: The type of wood used to construct the cabinet can have a big impact on the sound quality. Some popular woods for speaker cabinets include birch plywood, mahogany, and pine.

Cabinet Construction

The construction of the cabinet is also important. Look for a cabinet that is well-built and sturdy.

Speaker baffle: The speaker baffle is the board that the speaker is mounted on. Look for a baffle that is made from a thick, sturdy material.
Speaker size: Of course, you need to make sure that the cabinet can accommodate the size of the speaker you want to use. Most 1×12 cabinets can accommodate speakers up to 12 inches in diameter.

Budget: Empty 1×12 amp speaker cabinets can range in price from around £100/$100 to £500/$500. Set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.

Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you’re ready to start shopping for an empty 1×12 amp speaker cabinet.

Here are a few resources to help you get started:

Company websites: The best place to start your search is on the websites of the companies listed above. You can browse their selection of cabinets and read reviews from other customers.

Guitar and bass equipment websites: Several websites specialize in guitar and bass equipment. You can find a wide selection of empty 1×12 amp speaker cabinets on these websites.

Music stores: You can also find empty 1×12 amp speaker cabinets at most music stores. This is a great way to try out different cabinets and get advice from a salesperson.

I hope this article will help you choose the best empty 1×12 amp speaker cabinet for your needs.

**Happy playing!

Ian

Understanding 1×12 Cabinets

Get the Lowdown on 1×12 Guitar Cabinets

Are you a guitarist looking to upgrade your rig with a new 1×12 cabinet? A 1×12 (one twelve-inch speaker) cabinet can provide awesome tone in a compact and portable size. This guide will give you the key facts on 1×12 cabs so you can decide if one is right for your needs.

What is a 1×12 Guitar Cabinet?

• A 1×12 cabinet contains one twelve-inch speaker inside an enclosed wooden cabinet.
• 1×12 cabs are a popular choice for electric guitarists who need portability and convenience without sacrificing tone.
• The single twelve-inch speaker provides full and balanced sound in a lightweight package.
• 1×12 cabinets are a great pairing with low-wattage amp heads for small to medium gigs.

Benefits of a 1×12 Guitar Cab

• Portability – Weighing around 30-40 lbs, a 1×12 cab is easy to transport compared to 2×12 or 4×12 cabs.
• Great tone – A quality 12-inch speaker can produce a wide frequency range and dynamic sound.
• Lower cost – Single speakers cost less than multi-speaker cabinets.
• Easy pairing – A 1×12 cab works well with smaller tube amp heads.

What to Look for in a 1×12 Cab

• Speaker choice – Popular speakers include Celestion Greenbacks, Eminence Swamp Thangs, and Jensen Jet Series. Choose a speaker suited to your musical genre.
• Power handling – Make sure the speaker power rating matches your amp wattage. Look for at least 30 watts.
• Impedance – Match the cab’s impedance to your amp, typically 4 or 8 ohms.
• Size/weight – Consider the cab dimensions and weight if you’ll transport it often.
• Durability – Welded or finger-jointed Baltic birch plywood makes a robust cab.

Get the Versatility of a 1×12 Cabinet

A 1×12 guitar cabinet presents an affordable way to enhance your tone and gain portability. With the right speaker and construction, a 1×12 can keep up with larger cabs while weighing half as much. If you play smaller venues or need an easy load-in, a quality 1×12 deserves a spot on your wish list!

Importance of an Empty Cabinet

Why You Need an Empty Guitar Cabinet

So you finally bought that sweet new amp head, but what good is it without a speaker cabinet? While you may be tempted to plug into just anything, getting an empty cabinet and custom-loading it with speakers is key for dialing in your ideal tone.

Benefits of an Empty Guitar Cab

• Customization – You can hand-pick the exact speakers you want. Mix and match speakers for unique tones.
• Upgradeability – An empty cab lets you swap speakers down the road without replacing the entire cab.
• Affordability – Buying an empty cab and speakers separately can cost less than a loaded cabinet.
• Versatility – Blend speaker sizes and power ratings to suit different amps and venues.

What to Look for in an Empty Cabinet

• Cabinet construction – Look for Baltic birch or solid pine. Jointed corners are more durable than butt joints.
• Size – Common configurations are 1×12, 2×12, and 4×12. The smaller, the more portable.
• Ports – Closed-back cabs offer punchy lows while open-back cabs provide expansive highs.
• Impedance – Select an impedance (4O, 8O, etc) to match your amp’s output.
• Wattage – Ensure the cabinet is rated for your amp’s wattage.

Choosing Speakers for Your Empty Cab

Consider these factors when selecting speakers:

• Power handling – Choose speakers that can handle your amp’s rated wattage.
• Size – Larger speakers (12”/15”) push more air for bass, while 10” speakers emphasize mids and highs.
• Impedance – Match the impedance of all installed speakers to the cab’s impedance.
• Sensitivity – Higher sensitivity speakers require less power for the same volume.
• Brand – Celestion, Jensen, Eminence, and WGS all make great guitar speakers.

Get the Tones You Crave

Don’t compromise your tone with a pre-loaded cab. Grab an empty cabinet and customize your sound with your ideal speaker complement. An open cab paired with your amp head will let your unique style shine through!

Top 5 Best Empty 1×12 Cabinets

Top 5 Empty 1×12 Guitar Cabinets for Custom Loading

Ready to build your rig with an empty 1×12 guitar cabinet? A single 12-inch speaker cabinet allows you to craft your ideal tone while retaining portability. Check out these top-rated empty 1×12 cabs perfect for loading with your choice of speaker.

Orange PPC112C

• Iconic Orange construction with finger-jointed Baltic birch ply
• Closed back for focused low-end punch
• Designed for 12″ speakers rated up to 60 watts
• 8-ohm impedance, versatile for most amp heads
• Classic Orange styling and durability

Marshall MX112A

• Affordable Marshall empty cab with vinyl covering
• Angled baffle puts the sound right at ear level
• Rugged plywood construction
• 8-ohm impedance matches most 1×12″ speakers
• Iconic Marshall script logo and gold piping

Mesa/Boogie 1×12 Recto Slant Cab

• Slanted design enhances projection
• Signature Mesa Black Shadow grille cloth
• Finger-jointed Baltic birch construction
• Optimized for guitar and bass speakers up to 150 watts
• Sleek and sturdy build for years of use

Monoprice Stage Right 1×12 Cabinet

• Budget-friendly empty 1×12 cabinet
• Birch ply construction with durable black textured finish
• Closed-back design emphasizes low-end
• 8-ohm impedance suits most electric guitars
• Great starter cab for practice and jamming

Avatar 1×12 Guitar Cabinet

• Designed to handle 150-watt 12″ speakers
• Premium void-free plywood construction
• Neutral open-back design
• Converts to closed-back with optional rear panel
• Customizable cosmetics like Tolex and grille cloth

Get Custom Tones from an Empty 1×12

Now that you’ve seen some excellent empty 1×12 cabs, it’s time to choose one and load in your favourite speaker for the tone you’ve always wanted. A customized 1×12 cabinet offers flexibility and a portable tone perfect for gigging guitarists.

Factors to Consider When Buying an Empty 1×12 Cabinet

Choosing the Best Empty 1×12 Guitar Cabinet: Key Buying Factors

Ready to build your guitar tone with an empty 1×12 cabinet? Keep these key factors in mind when shopping for an empty 1×12 cab to get the most versatility and value.

Size and Weight

• A 1×12 cabinet with a 12″ speaker offers an ideal balance of portability and full tone.
• Consider the empty cab’s dimensions and weight for transporting to gigs.
• 1×12 cabs typically weigh 30-40 lbs empty. Make sure you can carry it!

Cabinet Construction

• High-quality plywood like birch or pine makes the cab rigid and resonant.
• Finger-jointed corners are stronger than butt joints.
• Quality glue and assembly are crucial for structural integrity at high volumes.

Speaker Power Handling

• Select a cab rated for the power handling you need.
• Look for at least 60 watts to accommodate most 12″ speakers.
• Higher power handling allows you to use the cab with a variety of amps.

Impedance

• Impedance (4O, 8O, etc) must match your amp and speaker for safe operation.
• Most 1×12 cabs are 8 ohms, offering compatibility with a wide range of gear.

Open or Closed Back

• Open-back cabs project clear and expansive highs.
• Closed-back cabs boost low-end response. Consider your tonal needs.

Budget

• Quality empty cabs run £100/$100-£300/$300. Spend more for sturdier build quality.
• You’ll also need to buy a speaker, so factor that into your total budget.

Get the Right Empty 1×12 for Your Needs

Keep this advice in mind when researching empty 1×12 guitar cabs. Choosing the right cab will allow you to customize and upgrade your rig for years to come. Now get out there and unleash your tone!

Material Quality

Why Material Quality Matters for Empty Guitar Cabs

When selecting an empty guitar cabinet, one of the most important factors to consider is the material quality. This greatly impacts the cab’s durability, resonance, and tone. Follow these tips for choosing a cab made of quality materials.

Opt for Plywood Construction

• High-grade plywood like birch or Baltic birch is ideal for cabinet building.
• Plywood is lightweight yet strong, resonant, and resistant to warping.
• Look for void-free plywood with multiple laminated layers for rigidity.
• Stay away from lower-grade particle board or MDF—they lack tone and durability.

Seek Quality Assembly

• The cabinet should be assembled using high-quality wood glues and mounting hardware.
• Durable joint construction like finger joints is better than simple butt joints.
• Examine the interior bracing and dampening treatments that enhance resonance.
• Sturdy construction ensures the cab doesn’t buzz or deteriorate at high volumes.

Consider Thickness and Weight

• Thicker plywood makes for a more robust and roadworthy cab.
• Look for cabs with 3/4” or thicker plywood wherever possible.
• Heavier cabs around 40 lbs produce a fuller tone and stand up to abuse.
• Lightweight cabs sacrifice durability—not ideal for gigging musicians.

Don’t Skimp on Durability

• High-grade steel speaker mounting screws prevent blowouts.
• Durable textured coatings protect the wood and provide great looks.
• Metal corner protectors and bumpers shield from gigging damage.
• Sturdy cabinet handles make carrying easier and safer.

Choose a Quality Empty Cab for Lifelong Use

Follow these tips when evaluating empty guitar cabs, and you’ll end up with a cabinet that sounds phenomenal and lasts for years. Never compromise on cabinet materials and construction—it’s the foundation of your tone!

Size and Weight

How Size and Weight Impact Empty Guitar Cab Selection

When choosing an empty guitar cabinet, two of the most practical considerations are size and weight. The cab’s dimensions and heft affect tone, portability, durability, and more. Keep these guidelines in mind.

Standard Cabinet Configurations

• 1×12 cabs (one 12″ speaker) offer the lightest weight and portability.
• 2×12 cabs provide additional speaker surface area and tonal complexity.
• 4×12 cabs are iconic for huge sound but very heavy.

Dimensional Considerations

• Factor in the empty cabinet’s width, height, and depth measurements.
• Ensure it will fit in your vehicle or storage areas when transporting.
• Measure the space where you’ll use the cab to ensure a proper fit.

Weight Matters

• Empty 1×12 cabs weigh between 30-45 pounds typically.
• 2x12s range from 45-70 pounds.
• 4x12s can weigh 90 pounds or more!
• Make sure you can safely lift and carry the empty cab.

Sturdier is Better

• Heavier cabs with thicker wood tend to sound better and last longer.
• Lighter budget cabs compromise durability and resonance.
• Consider a small 1×12 if you need an easily portable cab.

Tonal Impact

• Larger and heavier cabs often produce richer, fuller tones.
• But a well-made 1×12 can still sound great and be easier to transport.
• An open-back cab can project more air and feel less boxy.

Find the Right Size and Weight Balance

Consider your needs for great tone, durability, and portability when selecting an empty cab’s size and heft. Your back and ears will thank you!

How To Install A Speaker Into An Empty 1×12 Cabinet

Installing Speakers in Empty 1×12 Guitar Cabs

So you’ve got a great empty 1×12 guitar cabinet and now you’re ready to load it up with your favourite speaker for custom tones. Follow this simple guide for installing speakers in a 1×12 cab.

Gather Your Speaker and Supplies

-speaker (make sure it’s rated for the cab’s power handling)
-speaker cable
-wire strippers
-screwdriver
-speaker mounting screws (often included with cab)

Mounting the Speaker

• Unscrew and remove the rear panel of the cab
• Match the speaker impedance to the cab impedance (4 ohms, 8 ohms, etc)
• Mount the speaker to the baffle using the screw holes and mounting screws
• Alternate tightening opposing screws to evenly secure

Wiring the Speaker

• Run the speaker cable from the input jack to the speaker terminals
• Twist and tin the wire ends with solder
• Connect the positive(+) wires together and negative(-) wires together
• Add a speaker cable jack plate if desired

Re-Assemble the Cabinet

• Double-check the polarity and impedance match
• Make sure solder connections are secure
• Screw the back panel back on
• Install corner protectors, handles, or casters as needed

Testing and Use

• With the cab empty, connect to your amp and test at a low volume
• If the sound is distorted, check the polarity and connections
• Break it in at moderate levels before high-volume use
• Enjoy your custom-loaded cab!

With a few basic steps, you can install speakers in empty 1×12 cabs for the perfect tone. Now get ready to unleash your custom rig!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Unlock Your Custom Tone with an Empty 1×12 Cabinet

If you’re a guitarist who is serious about your tone, outfitting your amp with a customized single 12-inch cabinet is one of the best moves you can make. As we’ve covered in this comprehensive guide, empty 1×12 guitar cabs offer the ideal blend of affordable personalization, easily transportable size, and great sound for gigging musicians.

While multi-speaker cabinets boast impressive volume and low end, a single high-quality 12-inch speaker in a thoughtfully designed cabinet can still provide plenty of richness, projection, and character. The key is starting with a rigid, void-free plywood 1×12 cabinet built from quality materials like Baltic birch or maple. Sturdy finger-jointed construction and reinforced baffles will ensure the cabinet remains resonant and reliable even after years of use.

After selecting the perfect empty 1×12 cab foundation with suitable power handling, impedance, and open or closed-back configuration, the creative work begins. You can hand-pick your ideal speaker for your musical needs whether you crave detailed highs, beefy lows, glassy cleans, or raunchy overdrive. Take time to install the speaker properly, verifying polarity and secure mounting. Break in the speaker gently over days or weeks before pushing the amp to higher volumes.

Beyond fantastic tone, a customized 1×12 is a highly versatile piece of gear. You can swap speakers periodically as your tastes evolve. An open-back cab can be converted to a closed one if needed. With a great empty cab, you’ve got a musical tool for life. Don’t settle for the generic speakers that come with combo amps or factory cabs. Treat yourself to the signature tone you hear in your head by loading up the perfect empty 1×12 today.

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