A bass cabinet – also known as a bass speaker cabinet – is the core component of any bass setup. It reproduces the bass sound and is available in both active and passive versions. The common speaker sizes are defined by their cone diameter, typically ranging from 8 to 15 inches, and each size offers a distinct tonal character: crisp highs, punchy mids, or deep, powerful lows that deliver serious impact. Modern bass cabinets often use neodymium magnets and lightweight cabinet materials to reduce overall weight and make transport easier.
Main speaker sizes at a glance:
The speaker size has a major influence on the sound: smaller speakers provide fast response and clear highs, while larger ones deliver deep, punchy lows. Many bassists combine a cabinet with multiple 10" speakers with an additional enclosure that features a 12" or 15" driver. Most modern bass cabinets also include a built-in tweeter with a crossover to enhance the high-frequency range for a more modern, hi-fi tone.
When choosing the right bass cabinet for your amp head, two specifications matter most: power handling (watts) and impedance (ohms). The latter describes the electrical resistance of the speakers in the cabinet and must always match the amplifier’s output impedance. Example: if you want to use an 8-ohm bass cabinet, make sure your amp head has a matching 8-ohm output.
Note: The total impedance of all connected bass cabinets should never differ from the manufacturer’s specifications – neither higher nor lower. For detailed information, refer to your amp’s user manual or consult our technical experts at the service center.
Among the most popular series are Fender Rumble Bass Cabinets, the legendary Ampeg SVT 8x10, and the Hartke HyDrive Cabinets with aluminum/paper cones. Players who prefer heavier tones often go for Orange or the extremely robust Darkglass Cabinets rated up to 1000 W. If portability is your priority, the Markbass Standard and Markbass Traveler series are top choices for compact and lightweight setups.