Plug tube head into existing 2x12 combo speakers?

[chaos731]

OK, so I've got a Carvin SX200 100W combo as my main amp (2x12; switchable impedance). I'm thinking about adding a 100W tube head to my rig in my endless GAS and/or search for infinite versatility.

So the question is, can I just use the 2x12 cab speakers directly with an external tube head? Naturally, I would be matching the ohms, using an appropriate cable/extension, etc. I can't think of any particular reason why this shouldn't work, but I welcome comments, suggestions, warnings, etc.

[varador]

HAHAHAHA THIS IS HILARIOUS I _JUST_ POSTED A THREAD ASKING THE SAME DAMN QUESTION!!!! GOT G.A.S. AS WELL MATE!!!

[Vim Fuego]

Providing you know the impedance of the Carvin speakers (probably 16 ohms?) and you use the correct impedance socket/switch on the head AND you use a proper speaker cable not and instrument cable, then you'll be ok!

Also I forgot to add this:

The biggest problem will be the connection. I imagine you have a short lead from the speaker to a socket on the back of the amp. if this lead is too short to reach the socket on the head you will either need to extend it or make an extension lead with a jack socket on one end and a jack plug on the other. The speaker output from amps can be high current so you can't use an instrument lead for this (I made speaker cables using mains cable)

[chaos731]

Originally Posted by varador

HAHAHAHA THIS IS HILARIOUS I _JUST_ POSTED A THREAD ASKING THE SAME DAMN QUESTION!!!! GOT G.A.S. AS WELL MATE!!!

Yeah...I hit refresh and saw that too.

[chaos731]

Originally Posted by Vim Fuego

Providing you know the impedance of the Carvin speakers (probably 16 ohms?) and you use the correct impedance socket/switch on the head AND you use a proper speaker cable not and instrument cable, then you'll be ok!

Also I forgot to add this:

Yep...thanks. Pretty much as I suspected. I planned on getting a nice, long speaker 1/4" speaker cable too.


Any second opinions?

[chaos731]

So, I confirmed with Carvin that the SX200 2x12 can be safely and easily rigged with a tube head.
I'm going to use a splitter and an A/B (one of several from Loopmaster I've got lying about) so I don't have to keep switching cables all the time.

Now, I'm literally hours away from ordering an X100B head (in Red Jungle Bark tolex). I was on the fence about a Legacy head, but frankly, I think the X100 will be a bit more versatile (and certainly less proprietary to Vai).