2 12" vs Single 12"

s.abushaikha

CarAudio.com Regular
Just received my Alpine R2-W12D4, but I have the opportunity to get another for a steal. Putting a 4 cubic ft net box in my trunk is possible but may look slightly out of place and very heavy. But if the difference is worth it, I would consider it. Im currently mocking a box up with cardboard to see how it would look. Just worried with the weight, I don't want it too heavy due to other plans with the car.

Coming from two 10" budget subs in a prefab would the single 12 in a custom ported be sufficient, or is the output of 2 worth the extension. I heard that it helps with distortion. But later on with a DSP would a single 12 be enough? What are your thoughts?

The single would be in a 2.25net at 33hz with a slot port. While the dual 12"s would be in a 4net at 33hz deciding between a large slot port or two aeroports, still learning how to calculate aeroports and understand them, (they save more box space than the slot port).
 
Obviously two 12s will be louder. You'll need to double the power, so a high output alternator may be in the mix in addition to a bigger amp and enclosure.
According to WinISD the single 12 will be louder lower while my sub is very peaky, loud at the 40's. I just love the look of two. But if one truly is sufficient and in a proper enclosure then I should be alright right?


Would I need double the power if I'm running parallel? And I heard the Lexus handles 2000watts just fine if thats even needed.

SQ wise how big is the difference in distortion, can someone kind of explain how that would sound. If so could this be corrected with a dsp later on?
 
According to WinISD the single 12 will be louder lower while my sub is very peaky, loud at the 40's. I just love the look of two. But if one truly is sufficient and in a proper enclosure then I should be alright right?
One TypeR 12 is plenty for a good setup but two is better. IMO if you have the opportunity to get 2 I would go sealed. Smaller box, less weight, easier build, moderate peaks. Can you model sealed in WinISD?
 
One TypeR 12 is plenty for a good setup but two is better. IMO if you have the opportunity to get 2 I would go sealed. Smaller box, less weight, easier build, moderate peaks. Can you model sealed in WinISD?
Yeah, I did a ton less output, almost 10-12db quieter in the sub-bass range around the low 30s. Then again I've never heard a proper sealed enclosure before. But I see on youtube some setups be tearing cars apart
 
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Yes, I do notice in the deeper notes that my sealed subs are quiter but it is only in Bass tracks where I hear those special notes. Outside of Bass tracks I have never noticed that lack of bass.
Well due to the fact I mainly listen to Rap & R&B which is why I feel ported is best. Although I do love the way sealed enclosures are easily styled in trunks. But its not like my car is a show car anyway.
 
Well due to the fact I mainly listen to Rap & R&B which is why I feel ported is best. Although I do love the way sealed enclosures are easily styled in trunks. But its not like my car is a show car anyway.
I'd port for Rap. I don't know why winISD thinks 1 sub will be louder than 2, I'd guess it has to do with the load at a given voltage. You may need to adjust 3-6 db to correct for the error in winISD.

2 subs will give you more output and less distortion. The cons being the additional power requirement and the additional space requirement.
 
I think due to clean look, price, and weight one sub might be best. Its not like I use my trunk anyway. But I think it would be enough and its a big step up from my current setup. The extra money could go to a DSP which is a whole other rollercoaster in figuring out how to make it work with the factory amp.
 
But I think it would be enough and its a big step up from my current setup
I had an old 12" DB Drive Platinum that I had been holding forever and finally sold it. It was in a 1 cube ported that sounded great in the 300-600 watts I would put it through. Well, the buyer had a 2500w Massive Audio Edge that I set up for him. Holy crap that sub was hitting harder than I ever heard! Flexing his Malibu's roof as if it was mounted on it and rattling all the junk on his center console. So yes, one 12" will suffice.
 
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I think due to clean look, price, and weight one sub might be best. Its not like I use my trunk anyway. But I think it would be enough and its a big step up from my current setup. The extra money could go to a DSP which is a whole other rollercoaster in figuring out how to make it work with the factory amp.
I used 2 - 12" subs in my trunk. I sacrificed my trunk, because I can fold down my rear seats if I have to do any rare hauling. I get more bass when I need it with the two. Your plan will work if you like the sound....... You can always add another later if you feel the need.
 

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s.abushaikha

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