Celestion Greenback Shootout

Celestion's Greenback speakers is possibly the most iconic of all guitar speakers, at least for rock. In this video we wanted to show the modern range, their subtle differences and give a brief history of where the greenback came from and what it is about.
The speakers we used are the Heritage series M, H 55Hz and H 75Hz, classic series M greenback and EVH signature. In the talking sections we go through the different aspects of each speaker and what situations we find they work well.
There is quite a lot of talking in this video, mostly down to our love of the speakers, but if you just want to hear them please feel free to hit the time stamps.
Clean 0:24, History of the greenback 4:25, Dirty 13:38, Lead 17:05, More talking 22:02, Bluesy jam 28:13, Metal 34:43
As always we love to hear what you think, your experiences and any recommendations.... Also if you like what you hear then please subscribe to the channel and hit the notification button to see our new videos.
www.zillacabs.com/
Gear used:
Zilla Fatbaby 1x12 (closed back)
PRS Mira
Fender Strat (Eric Johnson)
Mesa Royal Atlantic
Laney VC15

[@silviopimentel7247]

That's gotta be the best I've watched in terms of understanding it. I have the M but now understand the nuances of it all. Thanks guys. I always liked the darker tones but in this detailed effort I can hear the difference. I always disliked Marshall and fender (hiwat and vox) are my likings but I sold the hiwat & vox for a badcat and vintage smaller Chicago based amps (Harmony, tweed fenders, Silverstone, ampeg & badcat) but needing new speakers so this really helped. I was thinking fanes or EV's but hard to get here in Canada. This was great help thanks guys.

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks mate we really appreciate it. We've actually just relaunched the channel so we'll be putting a lot of new stuff up. I hope you like it.

[@jaychen2000metal]

I've realized that mostly under high gain is when i can choose a speaker because they seems to sound similar clean but under gain, you can say "that one is zappy sounding, etc"

[@padgreen]

As you say, like one, like them all. Exactly! Great video.

[@ZillaCabs]

haha it sounds like a cop out but I really do, I'd be happy gigging any of these.

[@rozhkovmusic]

Finally somebody made this important comparison properly. Thank you guys!)

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks Vadim, that's really kind of you, I'm glad you like it.

[@timcat8382]

This is a very useful comparison. Thank you.

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks, I'm glad you found it helpful

[@jeffroCO]

I liked the classic G12M the best. Sounded sweeter and really pleasing to my ears. The Heritage G12H 55 was a close second. Nice shootout.

[@qua7771]

Agree. The EVH was similar, but less bright. The other two sounded more like creambacks to me.

[@FantasticF113]

@@qua7771 The EVH is a great choice. It's less bright at lower volume, but really starts to sing when it's cranked!

[@qua7771]

@@FantasticF113 I have four G12M classic greenbacks now. To me it is not a big enough difference to justify the cost of swapping. They are pretty expensive for a set.

[@FantasticF113]

@@qua7771 I have two G12M classic in my cab! I think it's the best all round 12" Celestion speaker 👍

[@qua7771]

@@FantasticF113 I have 2 V-30's, and 2 G12H-75's combined in another cab that sounds amazing. I'm not particularly fond of either speaker, but together, wow. Very balanced, and vintage sounding. I thopught I would get similar results from combining the V-type with the G12M, but this combo didn't work out for me. They had an upper mid spike that I found annoying, so I went with all G12M in it.

[@enriquekikzdelapazbichain1126]

Guys i love your videos so much! Im always happy to see when you guys upload something! Keep it up :D

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks mate that is really kind of you.

[@Alexhangman]

I have 1960BX cab with two G12M upper speakers and G12H (55Hz)+G12H (75Hz) lower. Sounds amazing.

[@antonioalbares]

You guys make great videos! they are al amazing to be honest. I love my G12M but got a Orange AD30 and a Marshall Plexi and you helped me make a decision. Heritage 55Hz it is for me! I have tried several boutique speakers, fancy alnico speakers but I am confident when I say this, I am a Greenback guy, through and through. Beautiful tones (to my ears at least)

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks mate, that's very kind of you. They stopped making the 55Hz H a while back but there are still some around, they will sound great with those amps. Thanks for watching.

[@andrewanderson3746]

Thanks so much for doing this comparison. You helped me choose the G12H (55) for that singing midrange which just cuts in a very musical way.

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks Andrew, I'm glad it was useful to you. I love that speaker too, you were lucky to get one as they stopped making them a few years back.

[@satchrules101]

@@ZillaCabs Hi killer channel and great playing! I have the G12 H 55Hz 30 watt .. ur opinion on paring it with the G12 M green back 75Hz in a 2/12 cab ?

[@vinnyrogers1499]

Delicious sounding speakers.All of them.

[@ZillaCabs]

thanks mate, glad you like them.

[@satchrules101]

@@ZillaCabs Hi . I am still curious if it’s s as good combination with the greenback M 75Hz with the heritage 30 watt green back 55Hz ? Do Hz have to be the same? Thanks

[@JBASH2011]

Thank you. Awesome demo as usual (Use Studio cans or monitors people!).Incoming ramble as I've been doing this for years (changing/trying all kinds of speakers) I've owned all of these as well as some old stuff from the 70s. I think the thing that always strikes me the most is the hard /quick /edge on the attack of the H30 75HZ-current or old. This is also the same with the 70th Anniversary. The attack on all the G12Ms, and the H30 55HZ, is always a bit rounder and has a little give- the 20 watters a bit more than the 55HZ H30 and the 12M25 RI. The 12M25 to me sounds more like the Blackback speakers I've owned. It's more pokey, a little less compressed/more crunchy crispy, and has a bit more high end content. I currently use a mix of a recent UK 12M25RI, and UK 12M20EVH in my 2x12, but I've run the gamut of creams, greens, and other Celestions in pairs and mixes. I think for a 1x12, through a Marshall type amp, whether buckers or single coils it's damned hard to beat a H30 55HZ. G12Ms just don't quite pack the punch all by themselves. I've been thinking about picking up another 1 or 2 x 55HZ, and this vid isn't helping. It's a great sound with a Marshall- With a NMV it's instant Page/Gibbons type tones. With a MV 2203/4 it's classic Judas Priest. Thanks again for the great demo, discussion and playing!

[@ratrodguitarsgear4646]

G12 EVH - Best sound & tone. Great video. Cheers.

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks Marty

[@alanst.4417]

Hi guys. I've been waiting a long time for this one, because I really love the heritage series, so thanks a lot for taking the time to put this together. Quite surprisingly I seem to like the classic greenback most overall for its clarity and definition and for leads, it's clearly the creamy and beautiful H heritage 55 Hz. Overall I was expecting to like rather the M heritage or H 75 hz, which I usually tend to. Maybe it's up to the amp and guitar or I've been just fooling myself until now :-) Can't really hear a difference between the EVH and the M heritage through YT. Btw i put down some time stamps for better orientation and direct back to back comparison. Rock on!

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks Alan. We have a video coming out for the heritage series speakers next month. It is quite similar to this but without the EVH and classic M, and with the G12-65. The M heritage does come across as a bit darker here, I would love to use that one in an amp with EL85s, I think it will really come to life there, where as the brightness of the classic M seemed to work well here I thought. A fair few people have been saying the EVH and M heritage sound very similar, I think youtube may have a little something to do with that because I find them to sound surprisingly different (to say on paper they are as close as you can get).. Thanks as always for watching and taking time to comment, it's always nice to hear from you.

[@alanst.4417]

Zilla Cabs that's great news, looking forward to that one, especially with the EL84s! Btw I always appreciate your effort to answer in a very honest and informative way.

[@bluesful]

I was under the impression that the EVH and 20W Heritage M are actually the same speaker.

[@slvrization]

Thank you so much for the comparison. EVH is the best to me here.

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks for watching. I would normally say the H55Hz but I've really been getting in to the EVH lately too..

[@gaetanclybouw]

Great video, u just can not go wrong with the Classics, I have them stock in my ac30, would never change for anything else

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks. Its a great speaker, especially in an ac30. Thanks for watching.

[@artysanmobile]

Very nice demo. The clean picking is so much more revealing to me. Heritage 55 [***] and Classic 75 [**] each have the strong mid character that I find most adaptable in a single driver cabinet.

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks Peter, that is very kind of you. They are too very nice speakers for sure, possibly my favourite too of the bunch.

[@alanst.4417]

Time stamps Clean: EVH 0:25 H Heritage 55 Hz 0:58 H Heritage 75 Hz 1:31 M Heritage 2:04 M Classic 2:37 Distortion chords: EVH 13:39 H Heritage 55 Hz 14:21 H Heritage 75 Hz 15:02 M Heritage 15:44 M Classic 16:25 Lead: EVH 17:06 H Heritage 55 Hz 18:05 H Heritage 75 Hz 19:02 M Heritage 20:00 M Classic 20:58

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks Alan, I can be a bit too lazy to do that ;)

[@alanst.4417]

Zilla Cabs not at all, glad to help a little :-)

[@JimijaymesProductions]

I liked all of them except the h heritage 75 which I thought would be my favourite... The evh sounded great, had everything that I hear in my head with a g12m.

[@donjohnson7550]

Hero!!!

[@rikosimmo]

H heritage 55hz and evh all day

[@Stevexperiences]

Nice video ! 1 - Greenback M classic 25 w (warm but nice presence and woody tone all styles played) 2 - EVH (warm but less presence than classic 25) 3 - Heritage 20 and 30 75Hz (a little bit harsh than M classic) 4 - Heritage 30 55Hz more moderne, but sligthy glassy tone and harsh.

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed the video. Always great to hear other peoples take on the videos.

[@aruraru6644]

The Heritage G12M is my favourite. Well balanced sound.

[@ZillaCabs]

It's a great speker, not sure why they stopped making it.

[@marcospintor1333]

@@ZillaCabs I read that it was because the M heritage is the exact same speaker as the EVH. Is that true? I believe it because they sound extremely similar in this video

[@thompson4620]

That EVH was pretty nice sounding!

[@ZillaCabs]

The EVH is a really cool sounding speaker, it's surprisingly versatile too. Thanks for watching.

[@chrisriffs]

The classic series G12M 25 watt is my favorite. Mad for a 1x12 and 4x12 with those speakers

[@ZillaCabs]

It is a great speaker, I think a lot of people assume the other models are better because the greenback is classed as standard now, but I think it holds up really well against the other greenbacks.

[@edguyrocks5865]

the G12m classic and heritage are both awesome to me.

[@ZillaCabs]

They are nice speakers, I think the M greenback often gets a little written off but I don't mind that extra bit of brightness it has. Thanks for watching.

[@MrWilly2204]

Man, listening back on this, the EVH Greenback sounds very balanced and even. I like it a lot.

[@ZillaCabs]

I really liked that one a lot too, its a great speaker. A lot of people say it is the same as the 67 greenback but I actually think it is a tad brighter... somewhere between the 67 M and the classic series M. Thanks for watching.

[@HiHello-ku1fl]

@@ZillaCabs I wonder what mixing the EVH and heritage greenback would do? I always thought these two were the same speaker with different label but I can hear they are a little different. I think I might prefer the EVH a little not sure though. It's close and they are both great. Also trying to fugure out if I like the G12H 30 better with the 55HZ cone or the 75HZ. Leaning a little to the 75HZ. Mixing those might be cool too. Slightly different mids....might make a nice blend.

[@FantasticF113]

Everyone here has a preference on their favourite speaker and that's cool. I'm stating the obvious, but they all sound very similar. However, each one also has a unique 'voice' that's generally pleasing - I think that's why Greenback's have remained so popular for so long. Celestion got the Greenback recipe right very early. Over the years they've tweaked it a little, but it's still the same. For me what's important is the consistent sound quality in Celestion speakers. I do have a favourite, but I'd be happy with any of these in my speaker cabinet.

[@ZillaCabs]

It's a variation on a theme for sure, and I'd be happy with any of them too. Thanks for watching.

[@bladerunner12]

Every few months I keep coming back to this video. The M Heritage and the EVH sound extremely similar to my ears, moreso than the rest of them. The M Classic is brighter, the H Heritage 55Hz sounds like the M Classic but just with more of it. Brighter drivers would be fine depending on the amp or cab, I guess if I had a darker amp/cab I'd go for these but with something extremely present like a Plexi I'd go for the rounder/warmer M Heritage or EVH. The H Heritage 75Hz is the only I would not want in my cab, it has a high end that I would call harsh.

[@rockinroy]

your best combo i recommend here is clearly the heritage 75hz 30 watt with the heritage 55hz 30 watt. this would be the best combo period. fantastic gutiar playing and demo and video.

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks mate that is really kind of you, I'm glad you like it.... I like that mix as it is very subtle, nice in the studio as it is two ever so slightly different sounds. Thanks for watching.

[@austinfailz]

I have G12M-25 (recent ones made in UK) in X pattern with 2 G12H-30 Heritage 75hz in one of my cabs, and with 2 G12H-30 Heritage 55hz in another one of my cabs. I like that combo a lot.

[@fernandolopes2544]

That boogie sounds killer , no one actually saying that lol. I did not expect to see a boogie in a greenback video but the amp behaved so well with all speakers. Loved the 55hz h30 leads, so in the face and at the same creamy. Amazing

[@jgabora]

The G12-EVH sounded the best.

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks mate, I'm glad you like it.... that speaker has really grown on me.

[@davebird534]

I have to say I agree with Jeff, Timmy the mid-range just sounded smoother sweeter and Fuller in the right frequencies that you want to hear for guitar. And my second favorite was the same as Jeff's the heritage 30 55 Hertz cone.

[@robertw1871]

G12M classic for me…. Just has that clarity and pop

[@ZillaCabs]

I know what you mean, its a great speaker.

[@dlock5794]

Awesome thx

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks

[@Frankentoane]

Damnnn, i just sold my 4x12 cab with those greenback G12H 30s. Now i miss it

[@ZillaCabs]

The heritage H's?

[@Frankentoane]

@@ZillaCabs yess, the heritage 55hz!

[@RG-yz8ov]

​@@Frankentoane 🤦 I have 1 with a alnico blue, my other cab is 1x12 alnico cream which is so far my favourite speaker ever they are both paired with marshalls

[@jameskavanagh4300]

I thought the evh/G12M20 would be right up my alley, but they sound so small compared to the heritage G12H30 55hz, I really liked that one

[@ZillaCabs]

The 55Hz H is one of my favourite speakers but it may just be the amp sounds/mic placement that you're not liking on the M, it does tend to be a bold sounding speaker. If you get the chance to play one give it a shot.

[@vicferrari89]

I liked the Greenback G12M 25W Classic Series best. The EVH sounded great. The G12M Heritage 20W sounded great. I could be happy with any of them demoed here to be honest. GREAT DEMO!

[@qua7771]

I was hesitant when I purchased mine due to the price, but if you can afford them it is definitely worth it. Speaker swaps really transform the amp. No regrets here.

[@ZillaCabs]

What amp/cab did you put them in?

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks mate, I'm glad you found it useful.

[@patrickcomandre6873]

Thank you guys for this Video on the Greenbacks, I find that the G12H pierces well in the Mix for the Leads (maybe the 100Db of output?), The G12M have a sound rendering with more compression the sound is tighter. Bravo for the realization of your Cabs Close Open, we feel well a work neat by passionate carpenter musicians. Keep going we love Zilla's work! Patrick France La Cadiere d'azur 5 Ha! ... If you have a link for the Solo Lead tutorial I would be very happy to work on it ... is it a composition or a band title?

[@JoeSage55]

G12H Greenback, 55Hz, 30Watts sounds best to my ears clean and dirty. Nice comparison. Thanks.

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks Joe, that is my favourite too.

[@Nghilifa]

My fave as well.

[@davebird534]

I have two pre rolla 1970 paulsonic g12m 25 watt celestions. And I have to say these things sound absolutely sweet in my 68 pine big box fender bassman cabinet. I also have some 1966 vox/celestion silver alnicos original paulsonic cones also in a late sixties big Box pine fender bassman bassman cabinet. I run them both semi-open. And I leave about a 5-inch space in the middle of the cabinet centered with the speaker magnets. I use either Maple or Baltic Birtch for the material on the back of the cab. the secret to this cabinet is the the wood divider that bolts between the two speakers effectively canceling out standing waves. That's the big problem that Marshall 4- 12 have. I also Port the bottom of the bafflel 2 inches all the way across the bottom just like a Dr z extension speaker cabinet. Both speaker cabinets are more lively and 3D sounding when even a bigger bass sound and punch Anna Marshall 4-;12 !!! In the mid-range is completely full and fought in the high end as clear but not overly bright because of the pine construction of the cabinet. I run a 50 w 1987 Marshall plexi through the greenback g12m fender cab, can a 62 vox AC 30 top boost through the 66 vox Celestion alnico cab. and I can tell you it sounds far better than using the speakers in the combo amp of the vox. They make such a huge difference having the right speaker and cabinet I'n making your amplifier truly sound great . And I just think a semi open back cabinet sounds better you get the best of both worlds.

[@NINEWALKING]

Strange you have not mentioned anything about the Pulsonic cone story. How it got lost. With factory went the plans and the knowledge how to make those. I’ve always found it fascinating that such thing is possible at all. Though people who worked on it would remember how they use to make them. Now do not get me wrong new Greenback speakers sound good as it gets nowadays for the type of the sound the represent but they are no where near to the pre Rola Pulsonic originals from second part of 60’s to very early 70’s. Well lucky there is a Johan’s channel, he is the keeper of the torch.

[@hgostos]

Fantastic and timely video. Thank you a bunch!!!! However, I'm confused as at 23:09 the dialogue seems to suggest that the EVH is different to the G12M Heritage (75). My understanding is that it is the same speaker with different labels. They sound identical in the clips too (example: 13:39 and 15:43). Can you clarify please? Thanks!

[@ZillaCabs]

I think a lot of the signs are that they are the same, they use a specific cone which I don't think is used on other speakers, but there is definitely a different doping used on the speaker, the changes are subtle but I have found the two speakers to record different. I didn't want to get too bogged down in finer details but the classic series M greenback has what I would call a fairly detailed top end, I don't like saying spikey as it suggests it is harsh, which I don't think it is. I can hear a certain amount of this in the EVH which I don't get in the heritage M. I hope this helps. Thanks for watching.

[@highgainmaster7856]

@@ZillaCabs which one do you prefer?

[@qua7771]

@@highgainmaster7856 The G12M sounds brighter to me. I guess it depends on what you want to get more from your amp.

[@markn4526]

Another interesting comparison and great playing. I like both the Heritage (55 &75) and the Classic M the best. In band situation with 2 guitar players, you need to define your position in the mix. For example, the Heritage 55 would be Malcom Young and the 75 would be Angus. The Classic M is sort of hybrid between the 2 H's...at least to my ears. My favorite speaker is the Classic M.

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks Mark. I think you make some good points there..... all these speakers have to heard in the context of the mix. The EVH and M heritage can sound a bit smoother but in a band mix I think with the wrong amo they can be a bit too dark.... taht said I love them both. Thanks for watching.

[@markn4526]

@@ZillaCabs Yes. The G12-65's seem to always cut thru well in the band mix. At least from my experience.

[@lukasbelinski1268]

nice review great stuff.the only thing is whats number 1 on someones list on this video a person uses a different amp thing change but still good

[@ZillaCabs]

That's true, all these videos are just for a little taster, once you get in the room with your rig then it is different. Also we keep eq settings all the same which you'd never do in a real life situation. Thanks for watching.

[@JayBeBerg]

The EVH is my favourite of the contemporary greenbacks. It's been said that it's only a rebadged Heritage M but to my ears it sounds different. The H 55hz sounds great mixed with others but in my experience it's too stiff and clanky on it's own, at least in a 4x12 live in the room. (The Celestion IR is excellent)

[@ZillaCabs]

Hi Jannew, I;ve recorded the EVH and heritage M numerous times and you're right they do sound different. I get a lot of stick for saying that but I'm glad you noticed that too.

[@MrCshmn]

Celestion are on record stating they are the exact same speakers. They are actually rated at 25w also. The 20w is just written for “historical” purposes.

[@AI-qz8sl]

Im so glad you can increase the playback speed on this video.

[@komimakojaketu5071]

After your video I am convinced (I have suspected this) I am totally a G12M guy. The G12Ms are THE sound of Rock and Roll. I found both the EVH and Heritage G12Ms to be the closest of what I like to hear from a guitar speaker. I can say the opposite for the H30s: there's a certain 'hardness' and treble 'spike' I don't like. The Classic G12M sounds great but kind of halfway house between the M and H Heritages. Thank you Zilla Cabs.

[@ZillaCabs]

Yeah greenbacks do rock. Yeah I hear what you are saying about the H's, I quite like that but I totally hear what you are saying, and again I agree that the M greenback stood up really well, a sort of mid way between the heritage M and heritage H. Thanks for watching and for the well thought out comment.

[@edguyrocks5865]

totally agree.

[@kurtc7290]

Man I could not agree more... I am not digging my 2x12 cab currently (G12H30 and a 25watt Greenback)... Clean sounds are great but pushing with a Marshall SV20 head and it get harsh - too harsh. My take at the first 3 sound runs was that I was totally digging the 20 watt greenback (heritage) and the EVH was a close second. This had me thinking that possibly they would pair well together???. Today I took another listen and the last "jam" take as it were totally had me rethinking that the EVH is actually the best balanced over the G12M 20 watt heritage (which was good too). For me (mostly a rhythm player/singer with mostly modest lead work) I feel the other speakers take/compete with the frequency for vocals and are more of a soloist minded tool. Now I am thinking of getting 2 1X12 cabs and buying an evh and a heritage??? who knows??? one thing for certain is that I am selling my 2x12 eventually and going the 1x12 route. Thanks for the video is was really informational for me.

[@RG-yz8ov]

​​@@kurtc7290how did you go? I have the marshall sv20h aswell had the g12h30 55hz in a closed Back cab wasn't quite right(good in 2x12 with blue), then put an alnico cream in an open back cab with the sv20h sounds just right to me. I've had the g12h30 55hz in a box hooked upto a looper and solid state amp in the shed playing for almost 1000hrs, I'll be interested to see if I can hear a change. I'm told they have a long break in time🤷. I thought the g12h30 55hz was good when I bought it but that cream just flogs my other speakers

[@kurtc7290]

@@RG-yz8ov I ended up selling my Marshall sv20 and picked up a Friedman pt v2. The studio is a good amp but too loud to get the drive I was hoping for…an attenuation didn’t really help just presented different challenges. Anyway, I did sell my g12h30. I kept my 2x12 cabinet and did buy 2 speakers(creamback 65watt and a heritage 20 watt greenback). I have them mixed together and actually accidentally tore the old greenback 25 watt I had in there removing it. It’s a very small tear in the outer diaphragm that I am sure I can repair. I think the g12h30 is just too much louder than these greenback types. I think the 25 greenback, the 20 heritage (if you can find one) and the the creamback are all really close in voicing. I think if you like one, you probably like them all. I would like to get a 2 112 stack some day, then I could really tell the difference between them. It all gets crazy when you really go down these rabbit holes .. but I know this… I do not like Celestion H sized speakers on most of not all sound files and shootouts when compared to an M sized magnet. I’ll never buy an H type again. Plus look at the sensitivity… a speak with 100db sensitivity will sound almost twice as loud as a speak with 97db… maybe why I really didn’t dig it. The greenback heritage 20 pairs well with the 25 watt version (I tore my greenback when I tried to switch the position with the heritage 20… then I bought the creamback and figured I’d fix it eventually)and pairs well with the creamback…. I think at the moment I prefer the the greenback 25 and the heritage 20 a tad better than the creamback. The creamback is a bit darker maybe less lively or present-but not in a bad way… may be better for louder and to handle harsh highs? Well good luck

[@rocriner2784]

I have a Marshall valve half-stack with 4 Celestion G12E-60 speakers. The speakers are well broken in at this point. I am however getting way more modern of a tone than I was hoping for. The highs are sort of crackly - almost too much that it sounds unbalanced. I want a hollow, warm, 70’s tone. Similar to early ACDC albums and zeppelin. Would I benefit to swap my speakers out to G12M greenbacks?

[@RabidChasebot]

The H heritage 55hz sounds soooo much different than the rest. It really sounded like it was alive compared to the rest. Not that any of them sound bad but it was just such a massive standout and I wouldn't want anything else.

[@heythere6983]

I like it a lot too. Compared to the 75hz , the 75hz sounds pretty scooped . The 55 sounds very solid and round . Iv always trying to dial in a tad more clarity in the midrange and you just can’t do it with scooped Speakers , even if it’s midrangey and scooped. The only problem I would think is it might be too present and piercing on the ears because of how hard and in your face it may be in real life. Perception is tricky because o alway year and agree that creamback 65s sound too muffled and dark compared to other speakers yet when you listen to a 55hz or any other of these speakers and then compare it to the creamback 65 , the 65 sounds way brighter in its higher end. But compare the creamback 65 to other speakers and it sounds very dark,So if the creamback 65 is way brighter and more sizzly than these , how dark do these really sound in real life ?

[@ZillaCabs]

It is one of my favourite speakers for sure, I love it. Thanks for watching.

[@richard66754]

I have two 4x12 cabs loaded with the classic g12m, and they sound fine to my ears. If you really want to step up your speaker game, look into the Weber versions of these speakers.

[@ZillaCabs]

Weber make some really cool speakers, trouble is they are impossible to get over here.

[@georgefromgreece4119]

H Heritage 55 and 75 Hz. Maximum clarity, nice tonality.

[@ZillaCabs]

It's a great mix.

[@OlafBathoorn]

G12M classic sounds the best to me, the EVH very close. great demo and comparison

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks Olaf. I know what you mean, I love the classic series M... always nice when you prefer the cheapest piece of gear in the video ;)

[@Blues.Fusion]

I have a bias towards the 55hz. This video just confirmed it.

[@ZillaCabs]

haha me too, it's one of my favourite speakers.

[@lekmusic]

Strat Evh 28:15 G12h30-55 29:15 G12h30-75 29:56 G12m Heritage 30:48 G12m25 Classic 31:43 Evh - amp not as loud?

[@Demonuts]

Evh and G12m Heritage are the same. So yes, something with the amp volume

[@jaycee30865]

Less efficient speaker than the others.

[@jaycee30865]

@@Demonuts oh I see. Definitely had amp set different because g12m and evh are same speaker for sure.

[@ZillaCabs]

Amp settings were the same, the EVH and M heritage have subtle differences. A lot of people say they are the same but they record different. If that is down to differences in years I'm not sure but these speakers were made in a similar period. All amp settings, and mic placements were the same.

[@austinfailz]

I really wish the Heritage/EVH G12M-20 was around 97-98db, so it would pair with other speakers (like the H30). I guess you could place two of them on top of a 412 with two H30s on bottom.

[@tasdemro]

my favorites 1-g12h 75 2-g12m classic 25

[@Artress357]

Not really available now, but I would have liked to have heard the G12C from the Hendrix sig and the vintage modern series.

[@ZillaCabs]

Hi Adam, I'm trying to hunt some down, I will definitely get a video up once I do. Got some of the G12L coming in too.

[@Artress357]

@@ZillaCabs Look on mojotone's website. They call them Watch Towers, and they are relabeled G12C speakers, but keep it a secret 😉

[@runxzze123]

Awesome Awesome Awesome again guys. Would you do a comparison between the anniversary g12h and the g12evh, a lot of people have mixed views on which one is better. The evh 4x12 comes with the G12evh and the 2x12 with the g12h Annihilations. Very curios to see how they sound. Thanks.

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks Scott. I think that would be a cool comparison, those two speakers do come up a fair bit so it would be quite useful I think.

[@runxzze123]

Zilla Cabs thanks I agree. Maybe throw in the heritage g12hs as well if u want.

[@perlan77]

G12-EVH and G12M-20 are one and the same. The difference in sound is simply due to individual speakers, as would be the case comparing two EVH’s. But spec and frequency curve are identical for the EVH and G12m20. Even Celestion has said they’re identical beside color and logo

[@ZillaCabs]

People say that a lot but when you record them separately like for like they sound quite different. I have heard people say Celestion have said they are the same (although I know half a dozen guys at Celestion and none have said that to me) but it clearly isn;t the case when you listen to the two side by side. I have recorded them both many times and know the speakers very well and there are clear audible difference way past differences in individual speakers.

[@TasmanGuitarsAmps]

maaan that solo on h30 55hz...

[@enriquekikzdelapazbichain1126]

Any chance we get to see the eminence cv75 on a zilla video?

[@ZillaCabs]

I'm working on getting some Eminence speakers in, they are on the list for sure!

[@MrWilly2204]

The H30 55hz sounds head and shoulders better than the others, imho.

[@ZillaCabs]

Even though I love the others, the 55Hz H heritage is probably my favourite.

[@JammyGit]

@@ZillaCabs The 55 is my favourite too, but I think that the "bass cone" tag puts a lot of guitarists off from getting one.....as it probably would have me if I hadn't taken the time to listen to it. As soon as I did, I whipped out the 70th Anniversary and swapped it for the 55. Best thing I ever did to my 1x12 cab. Excellent comparison video guys 👍

[@minibucker]

@@ZillaCabs 55Hz seems brighter then the 75Hz🤔 75Hz is bigger and more 70’s rock style. All great! Would be cool to cross EvH and H55hz in a 4x12

[@satchrules101]

Hi I have a 2/12 and trying to choose if I should use a G12 Green back with the G12 H 55Hz ? Do u recommend?

[@kellyhengy3292]

Do you know if there is a speaker that has the same cone as the 55 hertz in a heavy magnet, small watt, 75 hertz speaker?

[@ZillaCabs]

Hi Kelly, thanks for watching. It is the cone itself that brings the bass resonance down, so the only real difference between the two H heritage speakers should be the cone, as far as I am aware.

[@lovingpeace9715]

As a single speaker I like the G12M Classic but how is it in a 4x12? I wonder if the EVH would win over the G12M classic in a 4x12 cab ?

[@ZillaCabs]

That sounds like a good video to do. I like the slightly brighter, more lively sound of the classic M whcih is what I quite like in 4x12s too, but I do have a 4x12 loaded with the EVH speakers and that sounds great.

[@KirillKonyaev]

Hmmm, I found G12EVH sounding best to my ears. Wonder how would it sound paired with V30!

[@-EndlessNameless-]

Ive just mixed Greenback G12 M's (which are apparently the same speaker as the EVH ones) in my 4x12 with with V30's and it sounds amazing! Before that I had G12T-75's mixed with V30's in an X shape pattern, that was good also, but I wont be going back to that combo after using Greenbacks.

[@KirillKonyaev]

@@-EndlessNameless- Dude nice!

[@highgainmaster7856]

@@-EndlessNameless- which greenback g12m 20 watt heritage?

[@dominikpohli2381]

can you make a speaker comparison on celestion greenback 25 watt vs WGS green beret 25 watt

[@ZillaCabs]

working on it mate ;) stay tuned

[@-LSTR-]

How would a 10" and a 12" Greenback sound together in one cab?

[@rockinroy]

the heritage 75hz 30 watt combined with the heritage 55 hz 30 watt equals perfection in my book. i would not use a fender unless you install the evh pickup or something like that. fantastic guitar playing and video.

[@ZillaCabs]

I like that mix too, subtle difference adds a bit more space to the sound. Thanks for watching.

[@MustangStevie7]

I have a 1960AHW with 4 30w 55hz, while it sounds awesome and fat and full, it does lack a touch of clarity, so I have some 25w 75hz and might swap 2 of them, probably top left and bottom right I reckon it should have a very nice balance, but wondering would there be any probs being 2 different hz and different wattage

[@stiffrichard2816]

As long as they're the same efficiency rating you're good.

[@jaychen2000metal]

Would you agree the H 30w has the strongest bass under high gain? (75hz)

[@ZillaCabs]

We've used the H heritage speakers 55 and 75Hz in higher gain settings before, going all the way up to really quite high gain sometimes and I personally think they cope really well.... even better than a lot of speakers aimed at high gain sounds.

[@MrGroovergeorge]

Sometimes I wonder if the speakers didn’t so much suit the music being played but were rather responsible for helping create it and guiding or In that direction. Me sic seemed to get even heavier by the time the v30 was released.

[@ZillaCabs]

oh yeah totally, or at least the guitar/amp/speaker chain played a massive part in how music sounded, now a lot of us chase those old sounds.

[@hexrockstar]

13:40 15:44 16:25

[@davidsalzman6677]

H stands for Heavy (as in magnet weight)

[@KM-302]

I don't hear the typical greenback tone in the evh. Too fizzy. H55 sounds very open and all round very clear.. All sound great, particularly driven.

[@davidbuzzin426]

🎸1st place....G12M - 25 & 2nd place....GH12 - 55HZ 🔊

[@ZillaCabs]

thanks for watching.

[@fechart]

13:48 EVH 16:26 regular GB

[@ZillaCabs]

Thanks

[@vox1966]

The best is g12 c used in Hendrix cabinets

[@brightfalls6788]

(For personal reference) Clean MH: 2:05 M: 2:37 Dirt MH: 15:43 M: 16:25 Strat MH: 30:47 M: 31:42

[@qua7771]

I would like to hear your opinion. I'm on the fence with these.

[@brightfalls6788]

@@qua7771 I know I'm 5 months late with the response here, but... I've found the 20 watt heritage Greenback quite harsh and crackly, which wouldn't be a problem if they weren't so lacking in the bass response also. In a 4x12 configuration through a bass heavy amp they'd probably do great though. However, the 75hz H 30W Greenback sounds absolutely fantastic through almost any amp. In the demos it sounds kinda dark and muddy for some reason, but I've found in real life it gives me the vintage greenback tone better than the actual "authentic" 20 watt one. Wouldn't recommend the 55hz H 30W though. Somehow it actually has less "thump" than the 75hz version and is very fizzy and unpleasant in the treble. Probably the safest way to go is just with a standard 25 watt M Greenback. They seem to have the best of both worlds between the H and M reissues. They're more present than the H30 and have more bass than the heritage M, also they're cheaper and made in England again.

[@qua7771]

@@brightfalls6788 It's never too late for gear talk. At the time I asked I had a 2x12 cab to fill, and went with G12M-25's. The amp is a Ceriatone KK. Another speaker I had considered is the Webber 1225 pre-Rola.

[@brightfalls6788]

@@qua7771 Greenbacks seem to make everything sound better in my opinion and I don't think they've designed a speaker to this day that beats the good ol' Greenback lol... I'm playing a Brent Hinds terror (master series plexi clone) through 2x 75hz Heritage H Greens and it sounds EXACTLY like AC/DC's Dirty Deeds album.

[@qua7771]

@@brightfalls6788 I had a 1960B cabinet loaded with V-30's that I thought was amazing until I couldn't stand them any more. I loaded two Creamback 75's combined with two V-30's and that cab sounds amazing. I'm not particularly fond of either speaker alone, but something happens when you put them together. That cabinet still doesn't sound anything like a Greenback cab. It's its own thing. After getting the Ceriatone, I knew I needed a greenback loaded cab to get the most of it.

[@motrock2]

Interesting. I am at the understanding the the EVH and Heritage G12M 20watters are both the exact same speakers? Just different labels?

[@ZillaCabs]

I keep being told that too, but they sound different. I've probably recorded half a dozen of each... probably more like a dozen EVHs.

[@motrock2]

@@ZillaCabs That is interesting. Which do you prefer. I am actually trying to nail that early EVH tone. I have the new Metropoulos MetroPlex MKII; which is that sound. Plus the Frankenstein; etc. The speakers have always been tough. I was told the EVH Celestions were the way to go. BUT; I hear the Heritage might be slightly more smoothed out on the top end?

[@looking_33]

Damn if you just hadn’t used that effect on the lead this video would be perfect. What place do pedals have in a speaker comparison?

[@ZillaCabs]

We get asked for them and I'd always give Joe artistic license. Most players will want to hear how a speaker acts in a certain situation.

[@looking_33]

@@ZillaCabs totally understand, great video really, I do get seeing how pedals affect a speaker would be a useful factor in making a decision. was just my own frustration, I don't tend to use effects much.

[@Guitarman20]

EVH is the best allrounder!

[@ZillaCabs]

I think it's a great speaker and very underrated too. Thanks for the input.

[@Official_Cyberwolf_Ledgic]

Why does Celestion not make the greenback in a higher wattage like 40 watts and up?

[@ZillaCabs]

They effectively do in the M creamback. Changing the power rating of the speaker, usually means a change in components, which makes the speaker sound different. They've brought out a few speakers before that are effectively higher powered greenbacks but just not called a 40 watt greenback. Great question by the way.

[@mattwarren7734]

Decisions decisions decisions - I'm finding the G12M creambacks in my closed back vertical SFB sound absolutely great for thick, loud, "gut punching" hi gain things but my priority is in the cleaner end of things and these speakers can be a bit too dark and thumpy for these types of tones. I like the woody G12M midrange sound that they have, however. Since the largest amp I have that sits neatly on top of my vertical SFB is rated at about 45w RMS, and I'm not really cranking the amp up all that close to its threshold of breakup anyway, would M greenbacks essentially give me the same vibe but with less low thump a bit more lively/detailed top end? I really do like the heritage G12Ms best in these clips, and can still get them from one or two places, but I'm a bit concerned about the 20w power handling. I do hear through the grapevine that these were actually rated at 25 watts each but celestion just labelled them at 20w for 'nostalgia' purposes as a lot of the early 25w G12Ms from the late '60s were still labelled 20 watts due to them using up all the old labels, however. can anyone confirm that this is true?

[@qua7771]

These can all handle more power. I don't know where Celestion comes up with their ratings. I wish I could help with the tone thing, but players are subjective about these things. Every commenter seems to have a different favorite. I switch between two cabinets, so I'm too indecisive. It's a treat, when you get a bit tired of the same old tone, to be able to swap.

[@mattwarren7734]

@@qua7771 thank you - yes, I contacted Celestion about this shortly after posting my original comment! they told me two G12M heritage or EVH are fine with a 50 watt amp. I'd guess the rating is simply a very conservative estimate. I have the G12M heritages in my cab now - I know exactly what you mean about being indecisive... they sound amazingly sweet and smooth, but I'm already thinking "would I have been better off with the classic G12Ms?" and feeling the urge to try a pair of them... But yeah, this is the type of thing you can discuss till the cows come home but ultimately nobody can offer anyone else any really solid advice because there are too many individual foibles relating to the rig, the player's ears, what the player is trying to achieve with the rig, etc...

[@qua7771]

@@mattwarren7734 Give then some break in time.

[@qua7771]

@@mattwarren7734 I Mix G12H-75's with V-30's in my 4x12 and I think it sounds amazing. The funny thing is that I'm not particularly fond of either speaker alone. They sound a bit like the Greenbacks but more mid honk. A bit of the almond brothers type tone but not too much. Some of the good aspects of each speaker without the extremes of either. They still sound good for hard rock/ metal. If I were to tame a Greenback, I would mix it with a V-type. I have A V-type still in a box, but haven't gotten around to installing it in my 2x12 the greenback cab. I'm kind of enjoying the GB's after break in for certain kinds of music. I get what you are saying about the bass response.

[@mattwarren7734]

@@qua7771 Yeah I think that H-75 and V30 would be worth my time to try for a live rig as I find the H-75 great in that it's superbly well balanced and clear across its full frequency range but that balance also means there are no definitive peaks that cut through a live mix... pairing it with a V30 would certainly fix that! Definitely gonna stick with the M heritage greenbacks and let them break in a bit before I consider switching to classics - the heritage Ms are some of the most pleasant sounding speakers I've ever used, I just suspect I may need the slightly more aggressive 'snarl' that the classics seem to have, in the long term. Like with the M-65s, I'll probably see how I get on with them at a couple of gigs first.

[@petkopeet]

I got 2 greenbacks that say "Celestion international ltd. Ipswich, England" On back. Are they made in UK or China? They dont have "made in England" anywhere.

[@ZillaCabs]

They're probably UK made but how old are they? Is the a date code on there? It should be two letters and two numbers or the other way round.

[@rikosimmo]

Evh all day

[@christophershaski933]

why do you only do a little metal sample at the end? that is what I specifically am watching this for

[@ZillaCabs]

We try and make videos for a broad range of players, not just one style. If we do mostly metal everyone else complains.

[@christophershaski933]

@@ZillaCabs I mean... i didnt ask for the whole thing to be metal. Just include a high gain pass through with the other pass throughs........

[@-DILLIGAF]

Zilla Folks, did I hear you correctly that the 20w Heritage sounds DIFFERENT than the 20w EVH? I've been told they're the same exact speaker as the Heritage (with a different label) but also been told that they sound different from each other and are not the same. I'n trying to find the definitive answer. What say you?

[@ZillaCabs]

Hey, yeah we get told all the time they are exactly the same speaker..... we've probably recorded half a dozen of each and they sound different. I don't say it much because it seems to be a good way of starting an argument, but there is a clear audible difference.

[@-DILLIGAF]

@@ZillaCabs Nice thank you. I'm sitting on two of the heritage speakers but keep hearing great things about the EVH. I like earlier break up so I like low sensitivity greenbacks. Those 20s might be just the thing with the newer studio series of Marshall amplifiers. Thank you for your time and for help.

[@moonelfcosmo]

@@-DILLIGAFI have the EVH that I use with my Marshall SC20 and DSL20 and the pairings sound FANTASTIC!

[@riccardococcia]

13:47, 13:55, 34:51 15:51, 15:59, 35:40 16:32, 16:41, 35:59

[@RunningMan40510]

The original sounds the most classic 80's out of all 5. The EVH is second best. 👍👍

[@james-f1802]

The entire Heritage series is discontinued.

[@ZillaCabs]

Supposedly it is and has been for a few years, but I've bought about 250 so far this year ;) .There is a bit of a solid (not quite cult but very loyal) following for them, so Celestion do still hold a bit of stock, mostly for manufacturers I think.

[@stevencancel1727]

One of the best Greenback reissues is not represented here The mighty Celestion G12 C from the Hendricks reissue cab and 2007 425A/B cab This speaker is a greenback with a 53H1777 cone and nomex paper voice coil, cone and coil are same as used in Celestion blue alnico

[@ZillaCabs]

Yeah the G12C is a stonker, we've got a load of material on them for a video when we relaunch the channel. It really is a cracker of a speaker. This video was more for standard off the shelf greenbacks, although we were trying to get a G12C at the time. Thanks for watching.

[@stiffrichard2816]

Has anyone noticed that the metal frames on the China-made Celestions are soft and bend/warp easily when tightening the screws? They might sound good but I noticed this. Never on originals.

[@ZillaCabs]

The chassis are the same as the UK made Celestions, the parts are the same, maybe slightly different to the ones in the 70s. These days all the greenbacks are made in the UK.

[@nathanielmartinez8599]

EVH AND 20watt greenback has to be the same speaker. I can not tell them much apart.

[@ZillaCabs]

Yeah I've read numerous times that they are the same but we found clear audible differences between the two. That really surprised me.

[@marcrchz]

2:57 0:28

[@TheGgreen100]

The EVH and Heritage (they are the exact same speaker) were the best by far. Every other speaker had strange high/mid spikes but the EVH/Heritage were the most balanced and even sounding across the full frequency spectrum.

[@qua7771]

I agree, but I heard a slight difference. They may have doped the cones a little differently. Otherwise they have the same specs. I have the classics. There is definitely a high spike. It can create a lot of feedback squeal with gain.

[@ZillaCabs]

A lot of people say they are exactly the same speaker but I have recorded them both many times and they do sound different. I like them both.

[@soundsokok]

29:12. 30:46

[@KaddysJamKave]

Timestamps would be useful....

[@ZillaCabs]

you can add them if you like

[@KaddysJamKave]

@@ZillaCabs That's like an author expecting the reader to fix all their spelling mistakes...

[@OperationEndGame]

Had a pair of heritage 55hz.... i actually hated how it sounds on a closed cab 2x12, it was nauseatingly nasal....they are actually sounded better on a 1960TV cab

[@ZillaCabs]

That's odd I've never had them sound nasal before. Was it that pair that you had in the 4x12? I wonder if one of the speakers had a fault.

[@markym2793]

Maybe they were out of phase by accident. We're they wired parallel? Had that case with a jet city 2x12 cab stock wired.

[@OperationEndGame]

@@markym2793 they’re wired in series… I didnt like the nauseating mid honk of the 55hz Heritage… both speakers already have 80 hours playing time…. I actually went back to the Chinese greenies and stayed with it.

[@rwj1313]

It takes about a 10dbSPL difference to perceive something as being twice as loud. Average humans need to have about a 3dbSPL difference up or down to notice a change in volume. A 100W Marshall is NOT twice as loud as a 50W Marshall. It's just enough louder to tell that it is louder. Studio engineers and people that do live sound can hear changes less than 3dbSPL but they are the exception, not the rule. Speakers are like pizza. People should buy what they like. Some aspects of sound are subjective.

[@ZillaCabs]

Definitely, that's why we do these videos, to give a little taste in what the speaker can do in a given situation. When it comes to speakers, the sensitivity rating is measured at 1W1m so the difference is more noticable as you increase the level on the amp you'll be able to hear the difference. In the room a greenback is often noticeably quieter than a V30, it's not such a problem though.

[@sadanugraha5597]

есть китай и есть англия! нужно год всегда писать!!!

[@2368CHRIS]

Evh and g12m heritage Same Speaker Generally the evh is less money! Go figure 🤔

[@ZillaCabs]

We get told this repeatedly but I've recorded them many times and there are noticeable tonal differences. I can't see those differences being down to batches as we have compared several different production date speakers. All I can say is, even if it's magic fairy dust, they sound different which is why we include them in shootouts.