Subwoofer enclosure size

[Yello_Pro5]

Hi,

I attached a picture describing the enclosures I have used before (# 1 and 2) and the one I think to build (#3).

The sub I'm talking about is a Pioneer TW-W31C 12" (150W, 400W max.). It is powered by a Kenwood KAC-606 amp bridged at 150W (if I recall correctly).

Now, I really like the way the enclosure #2 sounded but I don't want to use it anymore since I need trunk space. The #1 enclosure didn't sound as good (probably too small).

Pioneer recommends a 2.0 (+- 10%) cubic feet sealed enclosure. For the moment, I plan on doing it sealed and going with the recommendation. The question is how will it sounds compared to the enclosure #2? I really liked it because the bass was "smoother" then with the other that was too "punchy". Should I port it anyway? or stick with the recommendation?

Also, I know enclosures are typically made of 3/4" MDF. However I have some 5/8" plywood laying around, any reason not to use it?

Thank you

 

[macklum]

You can use the Plywood ,but add internal braceing to the panels . You can add some polyester fill to the box ,this will trick the woofer ,making the encloseur seem larger . I use 1pound /cubic foot of air space . This is about a 10% increase in box size .

 

[Yello_Pro5]

Thank you.

I've heard about that polyester fill before. Can anyone explain why it "increase" the volume of the box?

 

[dantinne]

It slows down the air moving within the box... so that increases time that it takes for the air to get to the box wall... as if the box were a bit larger.