I am looking to build a new box. What program(*) have you used? What do you like about them? What don't you like about them?

WIN isd works well

x2

WinISD doesnt calculate in car response, the cars resonant freq, etc etc..

dont rely on it 100%

To figure port lengths sure its a great tool, but just that a tool and a toolbox shouldnt just have one tool in it...

Dont always trust online calculators either.. Nothing beats pure brain power.

but math is hard... especially whenever your only on a intro to algebra level...

:P :P :P :P

Many subs come with 'ideal box dimensions', but as stated, in car response varies greatly. The BEST thing to do is come up with a design from software or the sub manufacturer, then compare that to another member'* setup. Particularly a similar one.

The SAFEST thing to do is find a setup you like th sound of, and copy it.

Thanks for all the feedback. I don't know about doing the math. I'm doing good if I can balance my checkbook.

Technically, it'* not really math, but practical experience. Unless someone has a known 'bonneville interior acoustic offset' number, it'* never pure math. The width of the Bonneville will lend itself to a generally better sound than a narrower body, so go with your gut, and you'll be ok.

Or really have some fun, and build a FEW boxes. Find out what you like.

The best setup ive found is to have them pointing at the rear deck and loading off of it. Also rememeber for the optimum loading effect, you should get them only a few inches away from the rear deck. IF you have your spec sheet from the speaker, you can start with those deminsions and build a box that is a little smaller for more output or you can go with something a little smaller to get deeper bass. If you can find the Vas Fs and Qts of the speaker and give it to me i can help you figure it out, i have the formulas in a book.

Smaller enclosures lose low end not gain it, first of all.. If you want deep bass and I mean bone jarring window flexing bass a small enclosure isnt going to do it plain and simple..

When you go smaller you gain effieciency but take a huge hit in the low end department.

Works both ways in sealed and ported.

In sealed you want the QTS to be around .707 if possible


Manufactures spec boxes are often not designed with you in mind but more on the general public. And are ofter used to keep the sub safe.