..Last longer is debatable. Both are built well (build quality sides with JL) and should both last several years if used responsibly. I've had my Type-Rs for over 3 years now, operating most of their lives at over their rated 300 RMS power (quite a bit of time well in excess of that). The JL W3v2 series has been touted to handle more power than the Type-Rs, but they can't handle anywhere near the power (I would never feed a 12W3v2 500 watts, yet I'd feel confident with a Type-R with 600 watts if it were in a proper enclosure). Sound better is subjective, but I agree that the W3v2s sound better than the Type-Rs, but I doubt anyone would be dissappointed with the Type-Rs sound in a proper enclosure. Fact: Alpine SWR-1241D can be found as low as $100 + shipping with a warranty. Fact : At this price, you can buy TWO Type-Rs for the price of ONE 12W3v2 ...
Warren, you know for a fact the W3v2s can't handle that much power (at least nowhere near what the salespeople told you when you bought them.) I've seen tons of Type-Rs handle well, well in excess of their rated power on a daily basis without having any long term problems (including my own). Like I said when I got in a debate with you over a year ago, the 12W3v2 is a better speaker, the Type-R is a much better value and I still stand by that.
see how much i've changed.....
i do agree type r is better for money... i don't think its that much of a different sub, esp since you'd be paying that huge differnece in price. This is far not like opinion of the eDk, i'm positive the type r is a better buy, yet however i did have 500 watts on my w3v2s (that's the jl i think i may like the most)......