Hiwatt is ported, so that makes some sense. I use two separate cabs off the same head. Mesa V30 loaded deep closed back 2x12 and a DRZ green/cream loaded 2x12 oval open back. It makes for a great mix together. Now if I play through just one of them, I don't like the sound. Spoiled. Don't do it kids. Will ruin you forever.
@@katsavidiz Maybe it would sound better with different EQ on the amp? I didn't hear them say they adjusted for each cab, so whichever one they did adjust for was off to a head start.
slimjw ; Maybe we're alone on that one, but I also prefered the Greenbacks. In fact, I thought it was the best sounding cabinet on every example. Sometimes even miles ahead of the others. What I liked about it was the fact that it sounded more agressive to me. In my book 'fizzy' is something else. And about that bass..., most of the time it's the first thing that's being eq'ed out, or else you'll piss off the bass player. Greenbacks for me.
As a guitarist, every dream of ours is to achieve a better and tasty tone! Really grateful for the information, and always a pleasure to see the collab with Rhett
I have that mesa cab (except with the slant back top); it has been my secret weapon forever, and I still love it BUT I just fell in love with that 65w Celestion loaded Marshall cab. I really want one. Maybe because my playing style has changed a little. I would love to know more about those 65w Celestion speakers. I'd like to try them in my Mesa cab. Would appreciate if anyone can help me identify them better.
I agree on most of these. I wonder if the Hiwatt only really shines with a Hiwatt amp. That guitar cabinet with a DR103 head is the basis for David Gilmore's sound and his tone is magic so I dunno.
I think the problem with the Hiwatt (as suggested) is that it's more matched to the Hiwatt amps, but also that because of its high power, the massive headroom never really pushed the speakers, making them sound more muddled because they weren't getting the push the other, lower powered speakers were. You could hear it in the Mesa to some extent too, especially on the Marshall amp. I know it's probably not factually correct, but that's how it felt on the speakers I was hearing through.
This is an essential video, and does a great job of illustrating one of the most overlooked aspects of guitar tone. If you have a combo amp or two, try using it as a cabinet for other amps. This is a great way to multiply your gear options without spending money. Just make sure the impedance of the speaker(s) matches whatever amp is being used (4 ohm, 8 ohm, 16 ohm).
Jeff Ainsley I modified my fender pro 185 reverb for this exact reason to accept a 1/4” input. The amp is great for cleans but pales in comparison to my 5150 head for distorted tones
Does anyone else have this? It's weird, to my ears the first notes after they switch amp really suck and then after like 3 seconds I start liking it. I guess I'm overwhelmed by the differences at first but then I immediately get used to the different qualities and I can appreciate each one of them. The Marshalls and Mesa are winners, the Hiwatt was a bit dead in this specific setting. I think it's not for this kind of straight ahead rock n roll sound but it's more of a platform for more complex sounds (I'm thinking Gilmour or Hackett who both used them with incredible results)
Totally agree. And I notice this at home as well even switching through different OD pedals. You get zeroed in on a tone and then upon dialing up something different there is a lag until your ears and brain adjust.
Totally agree. That being said though, I'm partial to the two Marshall Cabs. I didn't really like the Hiwatt at all and the Mesa was kinda there but the extra low end I didn't really care for. If I was to use that I'd eq it out anyway so what's the point lol. The first one and the last cab, man they were both great, it'd depend on the song/part but you couldn't really go wrong with either of them. The first one sounded more classic to me and the last one a bit more of a modern sound.
@Rick Beato Watching your head movements while Rhett is playing his solo pieces 5:57 to 8:08 is priceless. You were totally immersed in the playing and your true love of music showed every run. Great video. Sometimes what you don't say IS just as important as what you do.
The first two cabs were my favorites, definitely. Marshall with greenbacks are the sound of rock n' roll and the mesa had a nice bottom-end with a decent high mid presence but less treble, which is a standard for V30s.
I used to have a 100watt Soldano Lucky 13, which is an absolute monster of an amp and when I can shopped for it a straight mesa 4x12 sounded shockingly better than anything else I tried. despite it being absurdly heavy and more expensive it was worth it, nothing else even came close.
Glad to see the Park is getting quality time! One major thing that needs to be spoken about in reference to speaker cabs is condition and age of the speakers. Depending upon how 'broken in" a set are will make a huge difference in the overall quality of tone as well as the "vintage" ( year they were manufactured) because more modern cones are manufactured differently and do not sound the same as their older versions. Also each and every box will have its own inherent resonances and tone response just due to the quality of wood so not every old Marshall 4x12 will sound stellar. I surmised that the 65 watters Rick loaded into the JCM800 box were nicely broken in and the cab has a nice overall resonance. Of course your own results will always vary!
It’s so subjective, and down to taste. I loved the low-watt greenbacks. It could be subject to change if I was listening on earbuds, cans, stereo speakers, laptop speakers...
I loved the Hiwatt for the Since I've Been Loving You part for some reason. Both clean and dirty. For everything else I preferred the Marshall with the 65w Celestions or the Mesa.
It seems to me like the Hiwatt has a much stronger mid-range than the other two, granted it does has less high end. I think it would probably sit better in a band mix
Rick Beato, doing the work the rest of us only could dream we could do. Thank you! I’ve never had such a great comparison between these cabs. Makes me wonder why I always liked some cabs over others.
Loved the Mesa cab. I wasn't expecting the high end rolloff on the Hiwatt. The Park head has a ton of character. Loved the raspy bite on the breakup. Another great video, guys!
i never thought i’d say these words in my lifetime: i liked the 75 watts the best...... omg... what’s next?? will i become a Maroon 5 fan next ??? What’s happening to me...!!!😱😉 Great video!! Loved it!!
Jeez, what a revealing shootout ! Unbelievable how much better the Mesa is.. Clear and concise with a wider frequency response.. Seems like no contest ! Thanks guys.. Lary
Another great video. These are so instructive. Every time, I found myself loving the Mesa. The Hiwatt sounded like there was a rug in front of the speakers.
Great topic. It’s amazing how many players ignore speakers and cabs in their search for their sound, when they are two of the biggest factors in a guitar tone.
Interesting thing was my perception of tone changed a bit on multiple listens. Important - preferences can vary. Also ,there is not one combo that sounds better in every style or situation. That said,my preferences for each song demo: Jet- Vintage Celestion speakers with Marshall cab Acdc - Celestion Marshall again (SG with Marshall Like Angus Young ) Solo -Hiwatt (really let the individual notes breathe ) ACDC - Same preference as for other ACDC Led Zep- Celestion Marshall Soundgarden- Mesa (Low end vital for that tune's drop D) Now to be fair, my preferences appear to lined up with the amps the songs were originally done on . So obviously those combos would sound more "right" Had they been done on different ones the preferences would be affected. 🌟Good video and concept
Great video ! Thanks to both of you. I guess speakers 3 and 4 would sound fine if not compared to anything else. But I like 1 and 2 a lot more because they sound better in the high frequencies. A slight preference for the Mesa (#2).
People seem to be really hating on the Hiwatt. My first thought was "what a perfect speaker cabinet to get some amazing 70's Rush and Yes type guitar tones" Expand your horizons guys, experiment with more sounds and you might come up with riffs you wouldn't have otherwise.
I'm not sure they're really hating on it, just a matter of personal taste. I think with more distortion, the Hiwatt would smooth things out, and sound great, while the Mesa would be too edgy. Unquestionably, great tones have been played through Hiwatts.
The whole time I was really digging the Marshall cab with the 65w speakers, I’m glad my ear is agreeing with you guys! I honestly liked the hi on the more melodic sounding elements, but there’s nothing wrong with having a specific cab that’s good for a specific thing 🤘🏼🤘🏼
Great video! I’ve spent a lot of time A/B cabs and also thought the Fayne speakers are way too nasally. They are great with a very bright amp though. I have a couple Friedman 412’s that sound incredible. One has 4x GB and the other has 2x V30 (bottom) and 2x GB top. I think you’d enjoy both.
I have the mesa 4x12 straight and this just confirmed I made the right choice, good part is that the low end is easier to EQ out than in If It's not to taste and the mid and highs has a distinct roar to It :)
Funny that some people consider that a "clean" tone. Less distorted, sure, but there wasn't an actual clean tone used in the entire video, which is a shame.
Greenbacks all day, love the midrange in them especially for classic/hard rock and probably would be best live in a mix. Mesa was good also, just a little scooped for me though. Can see why blokes use 2 greenbacks and 2 V 30’s in a 4x12.
when the notes go higher; Rick's eyebrows do too. cool hair dude. you're awesome. great ear and analysis. what a wealth of musical knowledge and techniques you give us. thank you muchly.
Love the 65 watt marshall cab, I had one and I kick myself for selling it. It's even more ballsy with the matching JCM 800 head. Runner up is the Mesa cabinet. I'd be interested to hear one loaded with Altecs and also JBL D120Fs.
The V30 speakers have H type magnet (bigger sounding) Greenbacks and 65's have M type magnet (less low end, more midrange focus). The Fanes are a different type of speaker. Cabinet measures and features, plus speaker specs create different sonic scenarios. Great video. Thanks!!
The Hiwatt was consistently ick. Kinda muddy and flabby, at least compared to the others. I really liked the Mesa and both the Marshalls, with the vintage having a slight edge. I preferred the Marshall amp over the Park. Definitely can hear a difference between all of those setups!
Thought the HiWatt lost out on every take, except when the solos kicked in, then it seemed to fill out all the single note stuff in just the right way. So, that’s sorted, I need two cabs!
@@rogerdat7807 Whoops. I guess what I meant is that I usually liked the greenbacks better than the cab with the 65W which Rhett and Rick both seemed to prefer. To each his own, I guess.
Long time mesa guy here. On stage, I'd probably prefer (except for the schelp) the mesa's grunt, but damn the 65watt marshall cab just sang thru the mic. very balanced. Wish I could a/b the amps a bit so I could pick out the differences better. Great vid, guys. Great idea.
@@ragingchimera8021 thats why I said "slip right into a mix" not cut right through. theres a use for both sounds, in my opinion. not every song is an AC/DC cover.
If you want to get heav: Mesa. I did liked the Hiwatt personally because I like nasal tones; but the first Marshall was great as well. Of course it depends on what you want to play and what you like to hear after all
Excellent technique for comparing equipment! You guys provided a real homegeneous basis for the comparissons you made. I also subscribe your opinions...the 65W x 4 Celestion Marshall cabinet stood above the others... 👍
I loved the sound of the Mesa cab with the V30's... but perhaps to be in the the room is where it affects the playing style and feel.. so many comparisons - it's all in the taste . great vid guys.
I think I'm slowly becoming allergic to Vintage 30 upper mids, the ringing note on Rock and Roll was downright annoying through the Mesa cab. Whereas I loved the Greenback reissue biting fizz, it's not as focused.
Huge difference. My preference in every clip was the first Marshall with 25 watt greenbacks, then the 65 watt Celestions, followed by the Mesa cab for some. But that one (and the Hiwatt cab throughout) sounded like the were recorded behind 5 mattresses and a pile of towels in most of the clips. Great clip!
Thanks for yet another informative video Rick. Each of the four cabs certainly does have a different sound to the others. This is why all amplifiers have tone controls for treble, middle, and bass. Could you do a test which involves adjusting the amp settings in order to try and get the same sound from different cabs?
I had always assumed that most of what I heard as the Mesa sound was the amp. Listening to this makes me think that's only 60% of it and the cab is dong the rest. Edit: now I come to think of it, there is a famous player (who's name escapes me) who uses a Marshall but prefers the sound of Mesa cabs and puts it down partly to the beefier construction.
Great video, as always! The Greenbacks sounded more round and balanced to my ear, with the Mesa following behind very close. The 3rd position would be for the other Marshall... I guess that the Hiwatt is also a great cab, but maybe for other rock genre, not classic or hard rock. But what truly has blown my mind away is the royer 122v, pure cream!
It's amazing to see so many people who aren't Mesa fans giving the recto cab credit. I'm a Mesa fan and am thinking I might try a good Marshall cab! At least to save my back.
Great shootout and really informative (listen through great headphones!!). I overall think I liked the Mesa slightly ahead of the vintage 65 Marshall but it was close. And those two amps both, while different, rock incredibly.
Man, I lOVE my ET-65"s speakers. I have two Marshall 1969 4x12 greenbacks in them that sound nothing like these cabs do but, thats using my 1970 Marshall 100W Super Lead head with them..... Jimi ALL the Band of Gypsies/Woodstock tones for days and REAL too!!! But as I said, the 65 w cab was my 62 year old ears fav as well!!! Shalom from NW Montana USA!
Back in the pre dialed-in housd-sounds of the '60's, big touring bands playing our San Jose Pavilion using banks of HiWatt amps (Chicago was notable) really stood out. Clean, high-fidelity at REALlY LOUD volumes from the stage to the back of the hall...
I guess I'm in the minority in feeling like the hiwatt was the only one that sounded good out of them all. It just sounded much less harsh and warmer to my ears than the others. I'm a "combo amp guy" though and probably just have a natural inclination to lean away from cabinet sounds to start with.
Pre-1980 Celestions all the way for the Marshall sound. That vintage cab sounded like it was made for rock guitar. Johan Segeborn demonstrated this about a year back, it has something to do with a change in the way they constructed speaker cones I think. Sweet
I still can't get my engineer head around this "what sounds guitarrier" or "I want to throw cables in the open back over sound quality" concepts of instrument amps/speakers, and mostly not the "they are not designed for music listening" off your mp3 or any other source. In my head it would be like both amp and speaker tries to be within 3dB over the audible spectrum and we EQ out what we don't need there. Loved the Mesa, poor Hiwatt didn't impress...
There's a reason why Mesa cabs are so highly vaunted. I didn't care for the Hi Watt too much but it was the best for the Zep tune and sounded right at home there. Especially for the cleaned up part
I loved the Hiwatt on leads - the darker tone of the cab smoothed everything out, though for Rhythm, I actually liked the sound of the 65 watt Celestions....the midrange was really in your face, which IMO is what you want from a Marshall Plexi. I would love to see Rick demo some old Mesa Boogie stuff with Altec speakers if you can still find them!
Agree, that solo was just beautiful on the Hiwatt. Full and warm. And the Celestion Marshall hit well on others. Though Mesa was best on Spoonman. Of course I would admit that the original equipment correlation prob influenced preferences on these songs.
I guess I like the "fizz." Greenbacks for me all day. Hiwatt sounded like it had a cold.
Good description on the Hiwatt!
loool
Hiwatt is ported, so that makes some sense. I use two separate cabs off the same head. Mesa V30 loaded deep closed back 2x12 and a DRZ green/cream loaded 2x12 oval open back. It makes for a great mix together. Now if I play through just one of them, I don't like the sound. Spoiled. Don't do it kids. Will ruin you forever.
@@katsavidiz Maybe it would sound better with different EQ on the amp? I didn't hear them say they adjusted for each cab, so whichever one they did adjust for was off to a head start.
slimjw ; Maybe we're alone on that one, but I also prefered the Greenbacks. In fact, I thought it was the best sounding cabinet on every example. Sometimes even miles ahead of the others.
What I liked about it was the fact that it sounded more agressive to me. In my book 'fizzy' is something else. And about that bass..., most of the time it's the first thing that's being eq'ed out, or else you'll piss off the bass player.
Greenbacks for me.
Rick: “Ok, Rhett, here’s how this video is gonna go. The guy NOT playing guitar will become a human bobble-head. Ok? “
Rhett: “Gotcha Rick!”
Holy crap!!
I fast-forwarded through the video and stopped 7 or 8 times. EVERY SINGLE TIME I stopped, one of them was bobbing his head.
:D
😂😂😂
Every time Rick says, "Let's check it out," I have a Johan Segeborn flashback. Actually, this pretty much IS a Johan video. Check him out!
Bradley Rossiter I was thinking the same. Rick has the full on bobble going when Rhett is playing Zepplin. Up down side to side. I almost fell over.
It's so strange how he looks like a living wii character.
As a guitarist, every dream of ours is to achieve a better and tasty tone! Really grateful for the information, and always a pleasure to see the collab with Rhett
I agree. As someone who doesn’t have ready access to all the equipment combinations it’s really helpful to hear these comparisons.
@@jamesgoddard2321 Ahh definitely man. I know there are many of us who really need these informative videos!
Mmmmmmmmm.... tone
I love this stuff. Good to see the “wallpaper” being put to such good use!
That mesa sounds huge, damn!
I liked it best too.
Agree!!! 💗💗💗
Mesa kills. Fucking rumbles your soul.
Mesa knows how to construct a massive sounding cab, I have a recto 2x12 verticle cab for my TC100 and it sounds AMAZEBALLS with my PRS HXDA 100 too!
I have that mesa cab (except with the slant back top); it has been my secret weapon forever, and I still love it BUT I just fell in love with that 65w Celestion loaded Marshall cab. I really want one. Maybe because my playing style has changed a little. I would love to know more about those 65w Celestion speakers. I'd like to try them in my Mesa cab. Would appreciate if anyone can help me identify them better.
Marshall + LP
02:52 Marshall-GB
03:15 Mesa-V30
03:38 Hiwatt-Fanes
04:01 Marshall-G1265
Marshall + SG
04:35 Marshall-GB
04:53 Mesa-V30
05:10 Hiwatt-Fanes
05:27 Marshall-G1265
Marshall + LP +tape delay
05:53 Marshall-GB
06:32 Mesa-V30
07:09 Hiwatt-Fanes
07:48 Marshall-G1265
Park + SG
08:26 Marshall-GB
08:44 Mesa-V30
09:01 Hiwatt-Fanes
09:19 Marshall-G1265
Park + LP
09:40 Marshall-GB
10:04 Mesa-V30
10:27 Hiwatt-Fanes
10:53 Marshall-G1265
Park + SG
11:26 Marshall-GB
11:36 Mesa-V30
11:45 Hiwatt-Fanes
11:55 Marshall-G1265
The Hiwatt was my least favorite. I think the Mesa sounded the best, great high end, the low end isn't boomy at all.
I agree on most of these. I wonder if the Hiwatt only really shines with a Hiwatt amp. That guitar cabinet with a DR103 head is the basis for David Gilmore's sound and his tone is magic so I dunno.
@@ScutMonkey I think you're right. The cab is designed for the head powering it. David Gilmore has amazing tone.
Love the screen name 😂 do ya still need help with your trusses 😂
@@MrUltraworld he didn't say what Fanes...Gilmour used Fane Crescendo's which are different than the standard Purple Fanes
I think the problem with the Hiwatt (as suggested) is that it's more matched to the Hiwatt amps, but also that because of its high power, the massive headroom never really pushed the speakers, making them sound more muddled because they weren't getting the push the other, lower powered speakers were. You could hear it in the Mesa to some extent too, especially on the Marshall amp. I know it's probably not factually correct, but that's how it felt on the speakers I was hearing through.
This is an essential video, and does a great job of illustrating one of the most overlooked aspects of guitar tone. If you have a combo amp or two, try using it as a cabinet for other amps. This is a great way to multiply your gear options without spending money. Just make sure the impedance of the speaker(s) matches whatever amp is being used (4 ohm, 8 ohm, 16 ohm).
Jeff Ainsley I modified my fender pro 185 reverb for this exact reason to accept a 1/4” input. The amp is great for cleans but pales in comparison to my 5150 head for distorted tones
Does anyone else have this? It's weird, to my ears the first notes after they switch amp really suck and then after like 3 seconds I start liking it. I guess I'm overwhelmed by the differences at first but then I immediately get used to the different qualities and I can appreciate each one of them. The Marshalls and Mesa are winners, the Hiwatt was a bit dead in this specific setting. I think it's not for this kind of straight ahead rock n roll sound but it's more of a platform for more complex sounds (I'm thinking Gilmour or Hackett who both used them with incredible results)
Totally agree. And I notice this at home as well even switching through different OD pedals. You get zeroed in on a tone and then upon dialing up something different there is a lag until your ears and brain adjust.
Totally agree. That being said though, I'm partial to the two Marshall Cabs. I didn't really like the Hiwatt at all and the Mesa was kinda there but the extra low end I didn't really care for. If I was to use that I'd eq it out anyway so what's the point lol. The first one and the last cab, man they were both great, it'd depend on the song/part but you couldn't really go wrong with either of them. The first one sounded more classic to me and the last one a bit more of a modern sound.
No offence, but that’s like a damn essay for me to read
FlyingDorritoChip it’s 100 words. Hardly an essay 🤣
That’s ear fatigue lol you’ve probably spent hours looking for an amp/speaker you want and it’s taxing.
I used headphones, the Mesa had THE best full sound, high/low/mid all perfectly blending. Just perfect. I love Mesas.
@Rick Beato Watching your head movements while Rhett is playing his solo pieces 5:57 to 8:08 is priceless. You were totally immersed in the playing and your true love of music showed every run. Great video. Sometimes what you don't say IS just as important as what you do.
The first two cabs were my favorites, definitely. Marshall with greenbacks are the sound of rock n' roll and the mesa had a nice bottom-end with a decent high mid presence but less treble, which is a standard for V30s.
I’m surprised the Mesa was consistently my favourite.
I'm not. My mesa 1/12 combo is awesome. Even cleans up better than a delux reverb
Same here, with the Hiwatt as a close second
I used to have a 100watt Soldano Lucky 13, which is an absolute monster of an amp and when I can shopped for it a straight mesa 4x12 sounded shockingly better than anything else I tried. despite it being absurdly heavy and more expensive it was worth it, nothing else even came close.
Me too, it sounds awesome!
Glad to see the Park is getting quality time! One major thing that needs to be spoken about in reference to speaker cabs is condition and age of the speakers. Depending upon how 'broken in" a set are will make a huge difference in the overall quality of tone as well as the "vintage" ( year they were manufactured) because more modern cones are manufactured differently and do not sound the same as their older versions. Also each and every box will have its own inherent resonances and tone response just due to the quality of wood so not every old Marshall 4x12 will sound stellar. I surmised that the 65 watters Rick loaded into the JCM800 box were nicely broken in and the cab has a nice overall resonance. Of course your own results will always vary!
It’s so subjective, and down to taste. I loved the low-watt greenbacks. It could be subject to change if I was listening on earbuds, cans, stereo speakers, laptop speakers...
I'm listening on bluetooth cans from my phone, and I heard it the same way.
For me the classic Marshall head and the Marshall Basketweave cab is the winner! What a sound!
cracks me up how Mr. Beato shakes his head while the guy solos, and then goes into nodding when he hits the rhythm riff...
All of those cabs sounded great but for me personally you can’t beat the greenback/Marshall combo. Also, both of those amps are crazy good!
For some reason I'm digging those 65 watt Celestions.
Since they were used on Back in Black is it any wonder they sounded awesome..
Me too. And the Marshall amp. The Park sounded just a tad less bright, less 'sear'.
this has been one of the best videos you have done!! super helpful
I loved the Hiwatt for the Since I've Been Loving You part for some reason. Both clean and dirty. For everything else I preferred the Marshall with the 65w Celestions or the Mesa.
Exact same
The Hiwatt Vintage tone is Astonishing, i love it!!!
It's super muddy to me. The others are more present, the first two very much so.
@@bnjmnwst Agreed, sounds like there is a blanket over the cab.
It seems to me like the Hiwatt has a much stronger mid-range than the other two, granted it does has less high end. I think it would probably sit better in a band mix
i would love to hear the hiwatt cab with a trebly amp or a treble Booster!
Rick Beato, doing the work the rest of us only could dream we could do. Thank you! I’ve never had such a great comparison between these cabs. Makes me wonder why I always liked some cabs over others.
Loved the Mesa cab. I wasn't expecting the high end rolloff on the Hiwatt. The Park head has a ton of character. Loved the raspy bite on the breakup. Another great video, guys!
i never thought i’d say these words in my lifetime: i liked the 75 watts the best...... omg... what’s next?? will i become a Maroon 5 fan next ??? What’s happening to me...!!!😱😉
Great video!! Loved it!!
Haha! I want to get you to my studio to make a video like this one Doug.
Jeez, what a revealing shootout ! Unbelievable how much better the Mesa is.. Clear and concise with a wider frequency response.. Seems like no contest ! Thanks guys.. Lary
Another great video. These are so instructive. Every time, I found myself loving the Mesa. The Hiwatt sounded like there was a rug in front of the speakers.
Great topic. It’s amazing how many players ignore speakers and cabs in their search for their sound, when they are two of the biggest factors in a guitar tone.
"Hi, I'm Rich Biatch." - RUclips CC algorithm
Awesome!!!!
Hah! You noticed that too!
Same thing for me. Ha ha!
Saw that and knew this would be the top comment. Lol
RUclips auto captions has failed at “Rick Beato” 100% of the time (Brick Piano?) but this new one is my favorite.
Man, I've been sleeping on those Mesa cabinets...I need one!
no, you don't, stop spending money you don't have! :D
The small 1x12 mesa cabs are amazing, great sound and kinda portable, they look weird with a big valve amp over them though
You made them all sound great
Too heavy, too loud for your gigs. Maybe a 2x12?
I vote 2x12's! Love my Orange Tiny Terror on 2 horizontal Orange 2x12's, stacked vertical. (One is open back, one closed, for ultimate tones.) 😏
Interesting thing was my perception of tone changed a bit on multiple listens.
Important - preferences can vary.
Also ,there is not one combo that sounds better in every style or situation.
That said,my preferences for each song demo:
Jet- Vintage Celestion speakers with Marshall cab
Acdc - Celestion Marshall again
(SG with Marshall Like Angus Young )
Solo -Hiwatt (really let the individual notes breathe )
ACDC - Same preference as for other ACDC
Led Zep- Celestion Marshall
Soundgarden- Mesa (Low end vital for that tune's drop D)
Now to be fair, my preferences appear to lined up with the amps the songs were originally done on . So obviously those combos would sound more "right"
Had they been done on different ones the preferences would be affected.
🌟Good video and concept
Great video ! Thanks to both of you. I guess speakers 3 and 4 would sound fine if not compared to anything else. But I like 1 and 2 a lot more because they sound better in the high frequencies. A slight preference for the Mesa (#2).
Never realized how much I love greenbacks.
People seem to be really hating on the Hiwatt.
My first thought was "what a perfect speaker cabinet to get some amazing 70's Rush and Yes type guitar tones"
Expand your horizons guys, experiment with more sounds and you might come up with riffs you wouldn't have otherwise.
Exactly! I loved the tone, but I'd blend it with the greenbacks!
Hiwatt my favorite in some ways.
rwaggs81 The Hiwatt was warmest.
Amen, brother. I liked it best too. Maybe because I don't usually deal with high frequencies that well.
I'm not sure they're really hating on it, just a matter of personal taste. I think with more distortion, the Hiwatt would smooth things out, and sound great, while the Mesa would be too edgy. Unquestionably, great tones have been played through Hiwatts.
Love when this kinda thing is done so well. Good job man!
The whole time I was really digging the Marshall cab with the 65w speakers, I’m glad my ear is agreeing with you guys! I honestly liked the hi on the more melodic sounding elements, but there’s nothing wrong with having a specific cab that’s good for a specific thing 🤘🏼🤘🏼
I love the sound of that goshdern mesa every time!
So...the auto-generated captions display your name as “Rich Biatch”... just thought you should know.
Just saw that myself in the video preview 🤣
@@cramerfan04 didn't know you were a die antwoord fan Rick!
Great video! I’ve spent a lot of time A/B cabs and also thought the Fayne speakers are way too nasally. They are great with a very bright amp though. I have a couple Friedman 412’s that sound incredible. One has 4x GB and the other has 2x V30 (bottom) and 2x GB top. I think you’d enjoy both.
I have the mesa 4x12 straight and this just confirmed I made the right choice, good part is that the low end is easier to EQ out than in If It's not to taste and the mid and highs has a distinct roar to It :)
6:30 that clean tone is perfect.
I said exactly the same thing as soon as I heard it
Funny that some people consider that a "clean" tone. Less distorted, sure, but there wasn't an actual clean tone used in the entire video, which is a shame.
Greenbacks all day, love the midrange in them especially for classic/hard rock and probably would be best live in a mix. Mesa was good also, just a little scooped for me though. Can see why blokes use 2 greenbacks and 2 V 30’s in a 4x12.
For sure, hard to beat the creaminess of the Mesa, but have that mid presence of the greenbacks as well
when the notes go higher; Rick's eyebrows do too. cool hair dude. you're awesome. great ear and analysis. what a wealth of musical knowledge and techniques you give us. thank you muchly.
Finally a gear video that's worth watching and provides very valuable information! Great content guys!
Love the 65 watt marshall cab, I had one and I kick myself for selling it. It's even more ballsy with the matching JCM 800 head. Runner up is the Mesa cabinet. I'd be interested to hear one loaded with Altecs and also JBL D120Fs.
I'm so glad they used "Since I been loving you". Probably my favorite Zeppelin song.
His playing is better than jimmies drunk licks
@@cornstar1253 hahahaha... Yes and no.
Yeah ,the rhodes and drums make the song.
The SRTS version in my top 10
Richmond Tiger hi fellow Tiger.
The V30 speakers have H type magnet (bigger sounding) Greenbacks and 65's have M type magnet (less low end, more midrange focus). The Fanes are a different type of speaker. Cabinet measures and features, plus speaker specs create different sonic scenarios. Great video. Thanks!!
I kept picking #4. Guess 3 years studying under Mr. Beato has developed my ear. Thank you both for all you do.
The Hiwatt was consistently ick. Kinda muddy and flabby, at least compared to the others. I really liked the Mesa and both the Marshalls, with the vintage having a slight edge. I preferred the Marshall amp over the Park. Definitely can hear a difference between all of those setups!
Thought the HiWatt lost out on every take, except when the solos kicked in, then it seemed to fill out all the single note stuff in just the right way. So, that’s sorted, I need two cabs!
Everything through the mesa cab or the Marshall with the vintage speakers is excellent...IMHO...great stuff all around from both your channels!!
Fun to see and hear you guys working so hard.
Funny, I thought the greenbacks sounded better than the Celestions every time for the Marshall cabs. My second choice was usually the Messa cab.
@@rogerdat7807 Whoops. I guess what I meant is that I usually liked the greenbacks better than the cab with the 65W which Rhett and Rick both seemed to prefer. To each his own, I guess.
The Hiwatt and the last Marshall cab are what speaks to me.
Long time mesa guy here. On stage, I'd probably prefer (except for the schelp) the mesa's grunt, but damn the 65watt marshall cab just sang thru the mic. very balanced. Wish I could a/b the amps a bit so I could pick out the differences better. Great vid, guys. Great idea.
Love what you guys do. The Marshall sounds the best with the mesa coming in second.
Just got this notif after watching URM academys video on cabs
the Hiwatt cab sounded so good, and I assume it would slip right into mix perfectly
It wasn't super muddy for you? It was too dark for me.
@@bnjmnwst it had some bass. i thought it would be good more for a mix or for rhythm guitar than lead.
Too muddy to cut through a mix.
You must be the only one who thought that, because I thought it sounded crap compared to the others. No comparison.
@@ragingchimera8021 thats why I said "slip right into a mix" not cut right through. theres a use for both sounds, in my opinion. not every song is an AC/DC cover.
Awesome video!! I’m a drummer by trade tho I don’t play much now, but I Love these types of clips. Exceptional work by both of you.
I really liked the fanes...something about how it opens up from gentle to aggressive in the low mids ...with the LP. Amazing sound
The Hiwatt just sounded off with both heads. I preferred the 65 watters in almost every case.
Testament to how good Jimmy Page is right here. Great playing by Rick’s friend.
If you want to get heav: Mesa. I did liked the Hiwatt personally because I like nasal tones; but the first Marshall was great as well. Of course it depends on what you want to play and what you like to hear after all
Liked the Marshall cab with greenbacks the best. Both amps sound great. Great video!
i actually really like the Hiwatt cab!
Would be Great a video of a Jimi Hendrix Marshall Tone!!!
Excellent technique for comparing equipment!
You guys provided a real homegeneous basis for the comparissons you made.
I also subscribe your opinions...the 65W x 4 Celestion Marshall cabinet stood above the others... 👍
I think the Hiwatt would sound better in a mix and not step over vocals
The Marshall's sounded the best to me. The Mesa and Hi-Watt sounded like they were muffling the sound.
I loved the sound of the Mesa cab with the V30's... but perhaps to be in the the room is where it affects the playing style and feel.. so many comparisons - it's all in the taste . great vid guys.
Love this vid, I believe Marshall will always be my favorite but that Mesa, and the order that you picked is the order that I liked best as well
I think I'm slowly becoming allergic to Vintage 30 upper mids, the ringing note on Rock and Roll was downright annoying through the Mesa cab. Whereas I loved the Greenback reissue biting fizz, it's not as focused.
I spent the whole time watching Rick when Rhett was playing.
Another outstanding video. Thank you so much.
Huge difference. My preference in every clip was the first Marshall with 25 watt greenbacks, then the 65 watt Celestions, followed by the Mesa cab for some. But that one (and the Hiwatt cab throughout) sounded like the were recorded behind 5 mattresses and a pile of towels in most of the clips. Great clip!
I like the faces of the person not playing while the other person is playing.
I was surprised I loved the Mesa the best and really didn’t like the HiWatt at all.
I agree, I didn't really like the HiWatt either
@@demagmusic Mesa > All Amps
I have to agree, with you guys. The Marshall with the vintage celestions was my fav.
Thanks for yet another informative video Rick. Each of the four cabs certainly does have a different sound to the others. This is why all amplifiers have tone controls for treble, middle, and bass. Could you do a test which involves adjusting the amp settings in order to try and get the same sound from different cabs?
Vintage 65 was definitely the smoothest.
I had always assumed that most of what I heard as the Mesa sound was the amp. Listening to this makes me think that's only 60% of it and the cab is dong the rest.
Edit: now I come to think of it, there is a famous player (who's name escapes me) who uses a Marshall but prefers the sound of Mesa cabs and puts it down partly to the beefier construction.
Great video, as always! The Greenbacks sounded more round and balanced to my ear, with the Mesa following behind very close. The 3rd position would be for the other Marshall... I guess that the Hiwatt is also a great cab, but maybe for other rock genre, not classic or hard rock. But what truly has blown my mind away is the royer 122v, pure cream!
It's amazing to see so many people who aren't Mesa fans giving the recto cab credit. I'm a Mesa fan and am thinking I might try a good Marshall cab! At least to save my back.
Basket weave sounded best of all of them I think
8:49 I can hear the full song in my head
Yeah try not drumming along. Impossible
If u can hear the rest of the band then im with u on that
Great shootout and really informative (listen through great headphones!!). I overall think I liked the Mesa slightly ahead of the vintage 65 Marshall but it was close. And those two amps both, while different, rock incredibly.
Man, I lOVE my ET-65"s speakers. I have two Marshall 1969 4x12 greenbacks in them that sound nothing like these cabs do but, thats using my 1970 Marshall 100W Super Lead head with them..... Jimi ALL the Band of Gypsies/Woodstock tones for days and REAL too!!! But as I said, the 65 w cab was my 62 year old ears fav as well!!! Shalom from NW Montana USA!
“Hey everybody I’m rich biatch” oh RUclips subtitles..
I might be in the in minority but I liked the Hiwatt, I like midrange I guess. Would EQ it differently for sure.
Hiwatt head and cab would blow everything away
Hey Rick... Great shoot out!!! I own a 1972 DR103 half stack and would love to put it through the Mess cabinet. Thanks!!!
Back in the pre dialed-in housd-sounds of the '60's, big touring bands playing our San Jose Pavilion using banks of HiWatt amps (Chicago was notable) really stood out. Clean, high-fidelity at REALlY LOUD volumes from the stage to the back of the hall...
MESA< There's a reason the 90's music was soo heavy. Bottom End!
Guess that's one reason I don't like '90s music...
I guess I'm in the minority in feeling like the hiwatt was the only one that sounded good out of them all. It just sounded much less harsh and warmer to my ears than the others. I'm a "combo amp guy" though and probably just have a natural inclination to lean away from cabinet sounds to start with.
The Greenbacks for me. Thanks for taking the time and putting forth the effort for all us GEEKS
Pre-1980 Celestions all the way for the Marshall sound. That vintage cab sounded like it was made for rock guitar. Johan Segeborn demonstrated this about a year back, it has something to do with a change in the way they constructed speaker cones I think. Sweet
I still can't get my engineer head around this "what sounds guitarrier" or "I want to throw cables in the open back over sound quality" concepts of instrument amps/speakers, and mostly not the "they are not designed for music listening" off your mp3 or any other source. In my head it would be like both amp and speaker tries to be within 3dB over the audible spectrum and we EQ out what we don't need there. Loved the Mesa, poor Hiwatt didn't impress...
Mesa... every time
I agree.
There's a reason why Mesa cabs are so highly vaunted. I didn't care for the Hi Watt too much but it was the best for the Zep tune and sounded right at home there. Especially for the cleaned up part
I loved the Hiwatt on leads - the darker tone of the cab smoothed everything out, though for Rhythm, I actually liked the sound of the 65 watt Celestions....the midrange was really in your face, which IMO is what you want from a Marshall Plexi. I would love to see Rick demo some old Mesa Boogie stuff with Altec speakers if you can still find them!
Agree, that solo was just beautiful on the Hiwatt.
Full and warm.
And the Celestion Marshall hit well on others.
Though Mesa was best on Spoonman.
Of course I would admit that the original equipment correlation prob influenced preferences on these songs.
The second Marshall sounds overly compressed and harsh... Anyone hear that?