Hi guys,

First stage of my Accords audio system is fitted next week. After reviewing funds, it appears I cant be as extravagent as I would've liked (too many other expenses).

So here's the setup as it currently stands.
Simple but effective middle range system which will slowly be built on. Those Great Danes arent cheap (will be saving for a system 240GT plus suitable amp to drive them).

Eclipse 3421 HU
Alpine SPS-1729 rear fill (HU powered)
Clarion VNET 450 bridged, which will power
Alpine SPR-175A front splits

Basically all the gear from my old car, dropped straight into the new one. Front doors are having custom timber baffles made to house midbass drivers, and they'll be deadened (partially) with dynamat. Tweeters being placed at about 45dg axis up on the dash.

Next stage (when funds allow) is a base model Alpine monoblock fed to a single 12" type R. I'll fire the sub rearwards but am wondering about enclosure size. What would the benefits be of using a smaller but thinner/narrower box Vs a slightly larger one? Boot space is a premium here, I still wish to retain as much practicality as possible.

[ December 25, 2003, 21:43: Message edited by: Iano ]

It sounds like a good system to start with until the upgrade bug bites

The phsical shape of your subwoofer enclosure doesn't really matter...as long as it has the right amount of internal volume...Alpine recommend a 28 ltr or 1 cu ft sealed enclosure for the Type R which should use very little boot space...I have even used type R 12's in prefab subboxes with surprisingly good results, a prefab box can be had for about $100 or so.

the type-R, like many subs, features a vented pole piece (ie: ventilation hole at the back of the magnet section). so you'll want to have 'some' room behind the sub for this, probably at least a couple inches.

perfect 'cube' shaped boxes are considered a no-no (for accoustic reasons), but i'm not convinced why it's a major problem.

otherwise, as mentioned, any shape should be fine.

Realistically, box shape is only important if you are using the speaker for midrange,

Although I do realize it can make a difference your box is absolutely huge (picture those walled SPL cars). (actually, box shape can have an impact on SPL, but I would only worry about if the box is only for competing at SPL comps)