Metal bassists don't often get the respect that their higher-register six-, seven- or eight-string axe-slinging bandmates receive, but being a metal bassist is no small potatoes. You've got to play just as fast with strings that are at least four times as thick, on a neck that's longer, and with an instrument that's almost invariably heavier than an electric guitar. We haven't even mentioned amplification yet: have you ever tried to lift an SVT head? And don't even think about playing through anything less than an eight-by-ten cabinet.

Never fear, those of flowing locks and heavy riffs, EBS has got your back -- in more ways than one. Their NeoLine series has always struck a sweet balance between power and portability, and for 2009, they'll be introducing the EBS NeoLine 810, a monster cab that'll have guitarists cowering with fear, but won't sacrifice your back or your backline.

The NEO-810 -- like all the NeoLine enclosures -- features two weight-saving components: a spruce plywood cabinet and neodymium drivers. The NEO-810 boast a power handling of up to 2000 W RMS at 4ohms, and is available in a 2ohm configuration upon special request. The additional of casters, recessed top handles, Neutrik Speakon connectors and a 1" neodymium tweeter still doesn't bring this svelte behemoth over 119 lbs. (compare that to an SVT 8x10, which typically tips the scales at over 160 lbs.).

The EBS NeoLine 810 was originally designed for two metal bassists: Peter Iwers of In Flames and Jonas Björler of The Haunted. Iwers is scheduled to appear at the EBS booth at the upcoming Winter NAMM show; hopefully he and Stanley Clarke throw down some sweet dual-bass madness.