Hello!

I have a complete system with everything powered using a two channel amp for my single 10in in a slanted truck cab box along with a 4 channel powering my 6x9's and 6.5's in front.

I need to do away with that big box in the back so I am thinking of using the very bottom to build some sort of box/rack for the amps/sub.

I currently have my two amps sitting under a section of mdf with two supports, its carpeted as well. My question is if anyone has taken it upon themselves to build what I am going to attempt to fab?

Any tips would be great!

Sort of silicone/epoxy to use? Poly fill? Best way to cut the round 10in hole?

Best mounting points? Porting location? Depth required behind a subs magnet?

Thanks!

VtwinPower

 

VtwinPower,

A quick search through this board will yield lots of examples of exactly what you are describing. You can also find images and the installation instructions for our subwoofer system on our website, which should also give you some ideas and guidance - MINI Cooper Model 1100S Subwoofer System . That's the R56 version, but the R50/3 version is identical except for the shape of the false floor.

Sounds like this would be your first enclosure project. I would caution that if you are interested in sound quality (rather than just quantity) the box building process isn't nearly as simple as it might appear. Contrary to what the majority of folks seem to believe (and even what most equipment manufacturers want you to believe), subwoofers and enclosures aren't simply interchangeable. The size of the enclosure and the interior volume of the vehicle have very real and very significant impacts on the frequency and power response of the finished system - and each needs to be considered in the design equations if you want good results.

Simply building a box that fits and putting in a sub that you like will get you bass but it is not a good recipe for high fidelity sound. If you really want good results I'd recommend you get a decent beginner's book like Vance Dickason's "Loudspeaker Design Cookbook".

Best of luck with your project!

 

Integral Audio,

I have been toying with the idea of getting some subs for my MCS '09 hardtop and I have found two out of the box systems that I like, your 1100S system or the JL audio stealthbox. I've done a search for both systems on youtube and have only found 1 video showcasing the JL system (with no sound sample). The JL system (2 8''s) is also a bit more expensive and without an AMP. Is there anyway I could see a video or hear your system perform before I choose? I wouldn't be doing the install myself since I am very busy but I have a good shop that has been doing all of my upgrades.

 

gothmdoc,

I'd be happy to provide you with a sound clip if it would be helpful, but it won't. You can't tell what one sound system will sound like by listening to it on another sound system - all you will hear will be the system you are listening to it on. It would be like trying to hear what my voice sounds like by having you read this message aloud - it just won't work.

Since you can't hear them in advance, to put your mind at ease when purchasing our products we offer our no-questions-asked money-back satisfaction guarantee. Try it, if you don't like it send it back for a refund (we can afford to do that because nobody ever does!).

When comparing our system to the JL system (for the 2nd gen MINIs), here are the things I'd focus on:

1) Sound Quality vs. Quantity: The two 8w7's in the JL have a higher Fs and are in a higher Q enclosure than our 1100S Subwoofer. The result is a much higher system Fb (resonant frequency of the total system), giving the JL system a big peak in response in the 50Hz range. Our system is optimized for flat frequency response - sound quality. Unless you like to damage your ears you'll never need more volume than what the 1100S delivers, but for some folks too much is never enough and I understand that.

2) Appearance and Weight: The JL "Stealthbox" isn't exactly stealth. It takes up more than twice the space of our 1100S. You can no longer put anything smaller than a breadbox in the boot because it will fall through the JL's "grille" and damage the subs. With our system there is minimal loss of space and the boot remains fully functional. Our system weighs in at less than 30 lbs for everything. All together the JL system weighs close to 80 lbs!! An extra 50 lbs mounted behind the axle does make a difference. Our system can be removed in under 30 seconds to reclaim the space - the JL would take you closer to an hour.

3) Price: Our total system is $899 w/Free shipping - that includes EVERYTHING you need, right down to the last wiring connector and screw. The JL system is $1299, plus $699 for the cheapest JL HD amp (any other amp will not look right given the amp rack location). Plus you'll need to source a wiring kit. Purchasing all of the specialty wiring and connectors in our wiring kit (no cutting of factory wires) would run you over $100. And you'll need to add shipping - another $70. Grand total for the JL Stealthbox: $2168. Even with the discounts JL is currently offering you're still looking at more than $2000, not including installation.

 

Ok, I am sold... but before I buy, got any coupon/referral codes for this bad boy? I live in a building with 3 other mini owners all of which whom do not have subs installed