Session 400 speaker choices

[David Jørgensen]

Ongoing amp woes!

So, I found a Session 400 head in great condition (and for a GREAT price). However, Im struggling to find an appropriate speaker for it, impedance and wattage is a bit confusing.

The 400 has a 4ohm, 200 watts output. Can I use an 8 ohm, 200w speaker (HH 1200e), or is the impedance mismatch a problem?

Also, can I use lower powered speakers if I dont crank the 400 - as in, I have a real nice K120 in my monarch, thats rated at 100w.

Im on a tight budget, hence the query - could i afford a new cab+speaker, Id obviously match it to the amp - however, funds are tight and Ive got gigs coming up that need decent power!

[Jerry Overstreet]

The impedance mismatch you cite here is not a problem for the 400. You may notice a slight loss in volume at the same setting, which can easily be remedied by just a tweak of the knob.

I wouldn't be concerned about using the K120. It should handle the 400 at moderate volume levels.

FYI, the original speaker for the 400 was a Peavey labeled K130 15 in. driver followed by the Peavey Black Widow 1501-4 rated at 300 to 350 W RMS. These are out of production but you can still find them in used condition from time to time.

Any of the Telonics, Eminence, TT15 neo mags designed for steel will also work fine.

[David Jørgensen]

Jerry, thanks for the succinct reply - this is exactly the info I was looking for!

Ill keep using the K120 in Monarch cab while i search for a higher rated speaker, for stressless (aside, of course, from the instrument itself ) live playing.

[Travis Bubenik]

Contact forum member Jeffrey Maxwell - I purchased a hybrid Peavey Black Widow/JBL k130 speaker from him (he built it) and have been absolutely loving it in my Session 400. Reasonable price - he can give you all the details.