Box size vs. frequency response

[hardballer7 0]

Does the size of the box affect how well a subwoofer reproduces different frequencies? For example: if one sub's box is at the upper end of the manufacturer's recommended volume and another's box is at the lower end....both boxes tuned to the same frequency....how will they respond differently? will there even be an audible difference assuming the same power is being used? will the output differ? it may sound like a rudimentary question, but you won't know until you ask...thx

[shizzzon 461]

Well, let's say for music you was comparing a box tuned to 32hz small and large.

Theoretically, using the small box would prevent the low end from being as loud as the larger box for the low end range. However, it's not necessarily true because i have 2 12s in a total of 4.0 NET which should be in 5.0 NET and they just destroy the low end.

I'm comparing this to a single 15" install i had in a LARGE box, 7.9 cubes NET tuned even lower and the low end response from both to the ear are practically equal.

A larger box may be more efficient but also can sound more muddy, less pronounced.

IT's best to stick with optimal box recommendations as those sizes should give you good quality on top of good output without choosing one over the other.

[JimJ 11]

I haven't played around with different sized ported alignments much, but I always prefer larger-than-recommended sealed enclosures than smaller ones. I'll trade off power handling for low end extension and efficiency anytime, I don't need to dump a lot of power into a driver.

[hardballer7 0]

I only ask because the plan in an 18" Fi BL in the back of my dodge magnum. I was thinking around 8.5-9ft^3 @ 32Hz but if I don't want to sacrifice my entire cargo area, 6.5-7.5ft^3 (also at 32hz) is the best option for me. I was just curious if I would be disappointed in the 30-35 Hz range.