Positive Grid has just released a new 140W FRFR speaker called The Spark Cab. Here’s everything you need to know…
Positive Grid made waves in the music industry with its Spark Amp, and now it is back with some new hardware: a 140W FRFR speaker called The Spark Cab.
FRFR speakers are all the rage these days. But there are already plenty of established players in the market, ranging from Line 6 to Headrush to Kemper. Does the Spark Cab have the chops to slot itself in and capture some marketshare?
Let’s dive in and find out…
Key Takeaways:
- Launch Date: Positive Grid introduced the Spark CAB on 5 October.
- Seamless Compatibility: Designed to integrate seamlessly with all Spark series practice amps.
- Versatility: Beyond the Spark series, it’s compatible with any gear boasting a line-level output.
Design and Features Breakdown
- Build: The Spark CAB boasts a durable yet lightweight design, making it a portable choice for musicians on the go.
- Sound Quality: Engineered for excellence, it delivers sound that stands out, whether you’re on stage, in the studio, or jamming at home.
- FRFR Cabinet: As a Class D powered FRFR (full range, flat response) cabinet, it ensures every nuance of your guitar tone shines through.
- Connectivity: It comes with a 3.5mm stereo input tailored for Spark smart guitar amps, including the Spark 40, MINI, and GO. Plus, a connection cable is thrown into the mix.
- Inputs & Outputs: Features stereo combo XLR/TRS inputs and a balanced XLR output for diverse connection options.
- Sound Enhancement: The Contour switch lets you emphasize low and high frequencies, ensuring a balanced sound even at low volumes. Additionally, the Ground lift switch is a real lifesaver against pesky hums or noises.
- Speaker Configuration: Houses a 10-inch woofer complemented by two high-frequency dome tweeters, offering a rich sound profile.
- Frequency Response: Delivers a comprehensive audio spectrum frequency response, ranging from 45-20,000 Hz.
- Power Hub Capabilities: With an onboard DC power output and a USB-C output, it can power a Spark series amp or mobile devices, eliminating the need for an additional power source.
Pricing and Availability
For those eager to get their hands on the Spark CAB, pre-orders will be opening soon. And here’s the icing on the cake: a special introductory offer pegs the price at USD $269. However, keep an eye out, as the official date for this offer is yet to be announced.
Final Thoughts / Analysis
As someone that has a Spark Amp, I’m not really sure how these two things will go together. I mean, sure, the Cab is an FRFR speaker like the Line 6 and Headrush.
But actually using it with a Spark Amp in a live setting or even just for practice? I just don’t see how that would work – it doesn’t even have a footswitch.
The “Spark” brand does have appeal; Positive Grid spent a lot of money marketing the Spark Amp and a lot of players do enjoy it.
But for me, it did lose its charm after a while. I just hated having to use my phone.
Ironically, this was the initial thing that attracted me to the Spark Amp but after a solid 18 months of using it, I ended up switching to the Boss Katana 100W MK2.
Why? Simple: it is a vastly superior practice and recording tool, replete with everything a modern guitarist needs. And, most importantly, it sounds freaking incredible.
So, yeah… not sure I’ll be picking one of these up.
Stay tuned for more updates and real-world user reviews to see if the Spark CAB truly lives up to the hype.
