Looking to have my cake and eat it too: High Output and SQ with a small footprint

TooPoor

Junior Member
10
0
NE
I'm pretty much completely new to car audio, but not to 'audio'. I like to think I have very large, very awesome custom built speakers in my 'theater room'. But when it comes to the massive amount of car audio variables, I am lost. Here's my situation, just looking for recommendations:

- 2010 Toyota Highlander + 1 year old male child and his Recaro seat

- Enclosure must take up the least amount of space possible (I realize how is an issue)

- Need to maintain spare

- SQ over SPL

- NO extra batteries

- Budget: I'd like to stay under $5k for sub/amp/enclosure/install

- Music: Everything from EDM/Trap to Hardcore

So many possibilities (maybe?)... I'm just looking for some direction, not a definitive answer. I like the idea of a single 12" that can dig deep and still be tight/fast, but I also would love something that could match my home theater sub (18" sealed, 4000RMS ~108db@20Hz) Hence the thread title //content.invisioncic.com/y282845/emoticons/biggrin.gif.d71a5d36fcbab170f2364c9f2e3946cb.gif

 
This would fill that bill nicely. --> http://www.caraudio.com/forums/subwoofer-classifieds/616042-lnib-tc-sounds-audiomobile-evo-r-12-d4.html

The EVO-R or "Type R" series of high-performance subwoofers were specifically developed to deliver stellar sound-quality ('SQ') plus true, "World-Class," High-Definition SPL ( HD SPL ) in the smallest enclosure possible, and do it at unprecedented price points.

 

Ideal for "forced-beta" small, sealed applications, the EVO-R is equally adept in VENTED, and or SPL "competition" type of ported box (often tuned above the recommended 30 Hz. for optimal Sound Quality) systems. In either application, the EVO-R will outperform virtually all other high-performance subs (due in part to their extremely powerful motors and lower Qts), costing upwards of twice as much.

 

In addition, at less then 7-inches of mounting depth (for the EVO-R 2312), the EVO-R drivers will often "fit" in applications, where other, more expensive, long-excursion subwoofers, simply will not work (as you need to add an additional inch of rear clearance behind the back-plate, to accommodate for the vent exhaust).

This means that for many applications, the EVO-R (and the MASS series as well) are often the only solution where one sub must move the air of "two," and do it in a an installation with limited depth.

 

Though the EVO-R has a similar linear-excursion envelope ("X-MAX") as the highly-regarded MASS series, it also has a slightly lower 'Q' and a much longer "overhung" VC motor, featuring 25% larger magnet structure. As a result of this more powerful motor, even SMALLER types of enclosures are possible, OR more potential SPL OUTPUT, with greater usable excursion.

 

In addition, to take advantage of the proliferation of the new generation of high- output, mono "Class D" amplifiers (and their inherent low-impedance capability), the EVO-R series subwoofers were designed to handle long-term power of well over 1,200 watts, into 2 ohm loads (or less) and still maintain excellent sound quality.

 
5k is more than enough for what your looking for... a HO alt, and a single agm upfront can give you some nice power while not having to have extra batteries.
now the thing that will break the bank is the install prices you can get around you. people might hate on me for this but a jl 12w6v3 since they like small boxes and a jl 1200/1 will be awesome together. of course set gains to around 800w and youd be good to go. a custom ported box by @CSCStang will give you the output you desire and excellent build quality.
 
Thanks guys. I'm still debating between sealed/ported as I did when having my HT sub built. I've noticed a lot of decent ~$500 subs out there and have been researching the following:

- HDC3.112/HDC412

- DD 12" (DD3500? These get expensive and I believe they need a big enclosure?)

- JL 12W7

- IDMAX 12 V4

- SSA ICON/XCON

- Everything else (RE Audio, Tantric, Sundown, Fi, etc)

 
what is the max amount of space you are willing to give up? actual numerical measurements please. if a ported box is built properly it can sounds just as good as a sealed but with more output. alot of subs mentioned belong in ported boxes, sure sesaled work but for their true potential a ported is better.

 
I'll get actual numbers. I just was gifted this vehicle so I don't have much info on it's dimensions. I won't argue the merits of a ported option, but when I think ported, I think larger surface area. Is it possible to do a couple 12"s under the rear seats maybe? Once again, just getting into this. I thought finding a subwoofer for a 6000sq/ft room would be tough... I think this beats it.

 
An underseat box is most likely going to leave you wanting.

I'm sure you're aware that most music you listen to doesn't have subsonics like HT does. But the cabin gains to be had in a vehicle are awesome for sub bass. 108dB @ 20hz shouldn't be all that difficult depending. We have guys doing 160+ in the 20's.

 
Thanks guys. I'm still debating between sealed/ported as I did when having my HT sub built. I've noticed a lot of decent ~$500 subs out there and have been researching the following:
- HDC3.112/HDC412

- DD 12" (DD3500? These get expensive and I believe they need a big enclosure?)

- JL 12W7

- IDMAX 12 V4

- SSA ICON/XCON

- Everything else (RE Audio, Tantric, Sundown, Fi, etc)
You have the budget to use passive radiator(s) which would be a big space savings plus the benefit of extra output and low extension of ported.

 
I should've mentioned that I'm not looking for anything @ ~20Hz as I am aware that music doesn't play go that low. I simply was using that stat as a reference to what my home sub is capable of...

 
Are you doing all of this yourself or paying a shop?

- Use the first bits of your budget to upgrade the underhood battery. Seems as if it's a Group 24. An XS Power d2400 should drop right in and this should bump your power capabilities to ~ 2,000w or so.

- Get some good cable and do the "big 3" and enough to do your power run. KNUconcepts is good and they have the install accessories as well. Welding cable is also an option.

Subs.. there are sooooo many good ones. For an output oriented sub that stays linear... you might want to include the Sundown X's or Zv.4's into the mix as well. Small box friendly and fantastic low end extension. You'll want at least 1k to get the output you're looking for. Igf you want to get nuts... get the Z and 2k and wang out.

 
All good stuff! I don't have a hard budget, but am trying to figure out where to 'not skimp' (i.e. sub/amp/install). So far it seems like the install is going to be the most challenging (and maybe most expensive) as there are great subs and amps out there, but it all comes down to enclosures/install. Keep the ideas coming and I'm going to find a decent installer up here in New Hampshire!

 
Activity
No one is currently typing a reply...
Old Thread: Please note, there have been no replies in this thread for over 3 years!
Content in this thread may no longer be relevant.
Perhaps it would be better to start a new thread instead.

About this thread

TooPoor

Junior Member
Thread starter
TooPoor
Joined
Location
NE
Start date
Participants
Who Replied
Replies
27
Views
1,723
Last reply date
Last reply from
jco1385
IMG_20260516_193114554_HDR.jpg

sherbanater

    May 16, 2026
  • 0
  • 0
IMG_20260516_192955471_HDR.jpg

sherbanater

    May 16, 2026
  • 0
  • 0

New threads

Top