polk vs alpine subwoofer

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  • h2opolo
    • Apr 2013
    • 46

    • California

    • sv211

    #1

    polk vs alpine subwoofer

    I have been trying to figure out a better subwoofer configuration.

    I have a pa1200.1 mono amp. http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...PA-1200.1.html

    it is driving two Polk Audio db1240's in a sealed box http://www.crutchfield.com/p_107DB12...40.html?tp=111

    I was thinking about switching to an alpine type R (swr 12d4) with the coils in parallel so I could supply 800W RMS at 2 ohm. Maybe even do the 2 ohm coil version to go 1 ohm and get 1000 watts to the sub.

    http://www.crutchfield.com/p_500SWR1..._12d2&skipvs=T

    The goal is to save some space in the passenger storage without compromising sound. Would anybody be able to inform me of the change in sound between these two configurations? Will the single alpine sound more powerful than the 2 polks?
  • David Analog
    • Sep 2013
    • 263

    • Dallas


    #2

    Connor,
    The Polk subs referenced are definitely entry-level, but very good as compared to typical entry-level products. The Alpine sub is a clear upgrade. Keep this in mind. Subwoofer surface area is more effective in creating acoustic output than more amplifier power or more subwoofer excursion. So in terms of pure output, two 12" subs hold the advantage over a single 12" sub. Subwoofer power handling ratings do not necessarily correspond to higher output levels.
    I'm not entirely comfortable with many amplifiers running into a 1-ohm load even though they may be rated for 1-ohm operation.
    IMO, it's not an automatic upgrade. Maybe you can keep searching for another approach. I would start with the maximum enclosure size that you can tolerate.

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    • h2opolo
      • Apr 2013
      • 46

      • California

      • sv211

      #3
      Right now the subs are in a sealed box that is pretty small. I was going to try and build a ported box. Do you think that would be a good place to start?

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      • jjackkrash
        Senior Member of PLANETNAUTIQUE
        • May 2007
        • 498

        • PacNW

        • 2021 Ski

        #4
        The box size and port tuning are huge variables in subwoofer performance, especially around port tune. I have a 10W6 in a ported Earmark box that really rocks. You have got to get the T/S parameters and the tuning frequency right, however, if you are going to DIY the box.

        https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiele/Small

        http://store.earmarkcaraudio.com/Xca...cat=282&page=1

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