HELP! Subwoofer Upgrade: JL 3v3 vs. IDQv.3 vs. Alpine Type-R

[2Swift]

The 'Product Review' forum seems to be designated for the poster's review of an item (even though I saw a number of posts actually seeking input), so I'm hoping this is the proper place to post this; sorry in advance if it's not.

Even though I'm pretty happy w/ the system I recently installed overall, I decided that a sub upgrade is already in order. After doing some research, I've narrowed down my options to the following: 10" JL 3v3 (500 RMS), 10" IDQv.3 (500 RMS), and a 10" Alpine Type-R (2010 or 2011 series).

My current setup in my 2001 Civic (2 dr) is as follows:

Headunit: CDA-9866 + Imprint Audio Processor (PXA-H100)

Amp: PDX-5 (75W RMS x 4 + 300W RMS x 1)

Speakers: Alpine Type-R 6.5" Comps (SPR-60C) + Type-R 6x9s (SPR-69)

Wiring: Kicker ZCK44

Sub: Loaded Ported 8" Alpine Type-R (SBR-S83V)

I originally chose the 8" preenclosed Type-R for simplicity's sake - it came in a box meeting Alpine's specs, and was proportionally rated to the PDX-5's mono channel (300 RMS vs. 300 RMS). With that being said however, several reputable sources (including JL) emphasized that the JL 10w3v3 is rated at 500 RMS max, and that 300-400 continuous W is supposedly considered "ideal." Similarly, several sources (including Image Dynamics) emphasized the efficiency of the IDQ series, claiming that it still produces exceptional output (without risking damage) if continuously pushed at 70% of it's rated RMS. Type-R subs on the other hand are notoriously power-hungry plain and simple, so I'm not even sure if it's a plausible option; or is it? Note: I made a point of mentioning the 2010 model because it's rated at 500 RMS as opposed to 600 (not sure if that makes a significant difference).

In the end, I'm looking for something that will integrate best w/ the rest of the setup (minus the subwoofer, ofc). Keep in mind that I primarily listen to hard rock/alternative, and am aiming for SQ > SPL, but still want the bass to be pronounced (this is what my current sub is lacking, especially relative to alternative music).

Lastly, my rock > rap music preference has always made me lean towards 10" vs. 12" subs. However, because the 10 and 12" versions of these subs are rated equally, does anyone suggest upgrading the additional 2"?

EDIT: It's also worth mentioning that the PDX-5's mono channel bench-tested closer to 400 RMS by Alpine before being shipped.

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[destined2race 10+ year member]

well, technically this should probably be in the subwoofers forum, not wiring and electrical. anyways tho, alot of people dont like JL on here because of there "retail" prices. But if you can score a great deal, the w3 is a good sounding subwoofer. Id stay away from the type R for your needs, and either go with the IDQ or the w3. The idq's are great sounding subs too. So to me it would be narrowed down to which you get the better price on, can you get it local with warranty, or what integrates better in with the rest of your system (if you have JL comps or sumn, some people like to keep it all one brand)

 

[TaylorFade 10+ year member]

IDQ hands down. Best sounding sub I've ever owned. And I've owned a lot of f'n subs. Including JL.

And the difference between a 10" and a 12" is pretty pronounced. I'd say go with the 12 if you have the room. It's much better (and easier) to turn a sub down than to overdrive it trying to get more. And the minimal price difference justifies going as big as you care to.

 

[2Swift]

IDQ hands down. Best sounding sub I've ever owned. And I've owned a lot of f'n subs. Including JL.
And the difference between a 10" and a 12" is pretty pronounced. I'd say go with the 12 if you have the room. It's much better (and easier) to turn a sub down than to overdrive it trying to get more. And the minimal price difference justifies going as big as you care to.

Nice, you've actually owned one. My biggest problem has been finding a way to hear the differences between the subs for myself.

In the case of a 12" IDQ, would you suggest a sealed enclosure?