Albert Lee on Eric Clapton & MM Amps

In the November 2004 issue of "The ToneQuest Report" (www.tonequest.com), Albert Lee had the following to say about using Music Man amplifiers while playing in Eric Clapton's band:"When I joined Eric (Clapton), he was using the Music Man amps with the 130 heads and he had the brilliant idea of using open back cabinets that from the front looked like 4 x 12's, but were actually 2 x 12's mounted in a 4 x 12 cabinet diagonally. It was like having a Twin with a box that was twice as big.
It was Eric's idea to cut a new baffle for just 2 x 12's mounted diagonally in that big 4 x 12 cabinet. I still use them - I've got three of those amps including one of Eric's and they sound fantastic. I just love the resonance of the open back and the overall sound. I am told that the speakers don't operate as efficiently as they do with a closed back. Of course, I'm turning around a bit, because in England I've been using a Fender Tonemaster amp with 4 x 12's and a closed back, and I've gotten quite accustomed to it. It sounds pretty good. It might be interesting to hear what it sounds like with an open back as well."
As a footnote, Albert Lee holds the record for being Eric Clapton's guitar sideman longer than any other person!
Steve

So , size DOES matter? (albeit only cosmetically)