Sub in kick panel (not in a pod) - BMW Z3

[booksix]

Ok, long story short: Only current sub options for the BMW Z3 are a 6.5" sub hidden in the storage comparment between the roll hoops (behind each seat) or in the same spot with a surface mounted 8" firing straight up.

I'm not a fan of either so I took some measurements that tell me I can fit a Kicker CVT 6.5" sub (free air ok) in the kick panel (where the stock mid bass drivers are - they will be moved to the doors). I plan to do a bit of seam sealing inside the metal opening along with dynamat and poly inside.

Basically, can anyone give me any major cons to this setup? thanks!

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[TSGP]

Why not just do 8'' subs in the kick panels and do a small enclosure?

Should be plenty of room to build around the clutch in a z3

 

[booksix]

I thought about it but I really don't want to disturb the stock vibe. I'm very particular about stuff like that. I do a lot of custom stuff (relocating heater controls, vents, custom plastics, in-dash touchscreens and carputers, etc...) but I always try to do it in a way that will keep a 'factory' look. So I'm really only looking for a solution that will fit into the stock opening with very little modifications to the car and will fit under a stock (ish) grill...

I'm not looking for insane spl, just a bit of a thump and a rounded sound. I had a 10" diamond in a sealed box in my 97 F-150 and then moved to my 88 Thunderbird and this was always more than I needed.

Now, on the other hand, I did originally want 8's like you suggested but I really don't think it'll work without some kind of pod/enclosure that sticks out (no way I'm losing my dead pedal)... But of course, I'm worried that the 6.5's will sound weak. I'm so torn! I guess, worst case scenario, i could put one in and wire it up (before cutting up the door panel to move the mid bass driver) and just see what kind of thump the single puts out....

 

[TSGP]

we did the 8s in a z3 a few years ago I wish I had pics of it

Did super slim 8s and did a grille for them, wrapped in factory vinyl it looked like it was factory.

Added enough substage that you could feel a little thump with the top down and rounded out the system.

Did a set of Diamond D6 componets in it also it sounded fantastic

 

[booksix]

Dang! i'd love to see that too! You should track it down and take some shots for me!!! //content.invisioncic.com/y282845/emoticons/biggrin.gif.d71a5d36fcbab170f2364c9f2e3946cb.gif

edit: what 8's did you use?

 

[booksix]

hmmm... I suppose I could cut more sheet metal and potentially wedge a pair of 8" Pioneer shallows in each side (2.5" mount depth, I have 3") but I heard they are REALLY non-linear. I supposed I could always make up for that with some finally tuned software EQ's on my carPC...? Only other thing to consider is the lack of a perfect seal for the 'enclosure' and the small size. I don't believe the pioneer is rated for free air.

 

[booksix]

Just bumping this one up and adding:

I'm leaning away from trying to fit two 8's so; what will give better low end/thump? One shallow, 8" Pioneer or two shallow, 6.5" Kicker subs (except I'd get the 2 ohm version)...??