Combo Amp or Separate Head?

[ConnemaraGuitar]

Hi, folks. I just finished my first tube amp, a Deluxe Tweed. I originally planned to make a separate head case for the amp, and play it through a closed, ported cabinet with a 12" Celestion speaker.

The I saw a configuration (cannot find it for the life of me) that incorporated the amp with a closed cabinet speaker. I like this idea. However...

Based on folks' experience, will a tube amp last longer if separated from the speaker? Stated differently, will the vibrations from the speaker reduce the lifespan of tubes? I'm probably splitting hairs here, but am curious all the same!

Thanks!

[theatomicjeff]

I'm on the fence.

Combo = easier transport vs. moving a cab + head.

Combo = eventual rattle from vibration.

[tom]

for me it's more of a sound issue. heads and cabs always sound bigger and fuller to me.

[John Price]

I love using the head version! I can match it up to any cab that I want! Plus it helps to divide the weight up when transferring it around!
Not to say that I don't have a small combo for the smaller/outdoor gigs but my first choice is always the head and 2x12 cab.

[LearnedHand]

Stated differently, will the vibrations from the speaker reduce the lifespan of tubes? I'm probably splitting hairs here, but am curious all the same!


Congratulations on making your own tube amp! The debate between head/cab and combo has been going on and on and on. I have heard the microphonics can occur in a combo that can wear the tubes out faster. However, if everything is design right in the combo, those microphonics can accentuate the tone coming from the amp. Some of the greatest amps are combos. Some of the greatest amps are heads w/ cabs. You are going to have to go with your ear. One thing to consider is to build it as a combo and build an extension closed back cabinet, then you can A/B for yourself the two and decide.