I'm pretty new to the whole sub whoofer thing...

Anyway, I had a few questions. I tried searching a bit, but didn't really find what I was looking for.

Anyway, first and foremost, the radio in my 05 XLT is just the standard CD player, non 6-disc, non mp3 player. So if I wanted to hook a sub or two up, what would the benefit be to getting a replacement head unit, as opposed to tapping into the wires for the rear speakers? Common sense would tell me there is no real advantage as far as bass goes because the sub gets the power from the amp, which comes right from the battery...sound right?

Secondly, what is the benefit of running one 10 over one 12...or two 10's over one 12. Thanks.

 

It's always better to get an aftermarket hu(head unit). You have to buy an adapter if you want to hook an amp/sub up to your stock hu. Aftermarket head units have a amp built into it so if you decide to upgrade your speakers, which I highly recommend, it will sound a lot better. Aftermarket hu offer more control over your speakers, subwoofer(s), and amp as well.

As for what kind or how many subs you want, is really up to what kind of music you listen to. I found that a good single 10 or 12 inch sub works great for rock and rap just fine. I see really no reason, other than if you're competing in meets, to buy 2 12's when a really nice 10 or a subtle 12 can get the job done.

Think out what you want and read about your products before you buy because you want to do it right the first time to save money, time, and headaches. It's all in the amp and box.

 

A new h/u will help control the new set up alot better. the stock will handle ok but not as many functions. The stock wont be as clear either.

The difference b/w 10s and 12s=surface are mainly. A 12 will move more air than a 10 but a 10 will be a lil clearer than the 12.

To answer your question fully we need to know more about the music you like...sound quality or SPL?

 

I listen to pretty much everything...mainly country and rap...weird combo I know. I just want to feel the bass is the whole thing...like the way it is now, I can hear the bass, but I want to feel it, you know.

I guess a 10" would be a good idea. I was thinking of spending around $500...not sure what that will get me, but if it's just going to get me something crappy, then I'm not going to do anything until I have some more money available for this little project.

I have some reading to do I guess. Thanks.

 

I've got one JL 12w3v3 with a JL 250/1 and I listen to primarily country and rock. The 12 works great for me, it provides enough thump to support my musical tastes, but if I want to show off and put in a rap track, it will rattle my rearview mirror out of alignment!

 

Proof that you don't need to spend a lot of money on a system to be happy.

 

I prefer 10's over 12's...like someone said earlier, the 12's move more air but dont always sound as good