tuning for that sweet spl

how do u tune for the best highest speaker db levels

The best way to get the clearest and most powerful sound from any speakers is to match the amps RMS output to twice the speakers RMS rating, usually the peak handling. Then, run the amp at half gain, that way the amp is at a god level, and the speakers have clear + powerful sound b/c the amp is giving them their constant rated RMS wattage, while its not being over worked because its only at half gain. But you do have to conisder that if you turn the amps up to loud you can easliy blow out the speakers.

Eh, you're supposed to adjust your gain according to your preamp voltage. Don't use it as a volume knob.

To tune your system for the best SPL you have to tell us what equipment your using and what type of box and size it is. I'll tell you right now, from my experience the best SPL seems to come from a vented box. Also, if tuned right, it'll have great SQ too.

just 2 add my 2 cents...most hardcore competitors find the resonant frequency of their vehicle.

To do that you will need a sub, amp, spl meter, test tone cd. and a pen and paper to record your readings.

which ever sub you are using to find your resonant frequency, put in a seal box. A sealed box usually has a flat response. Turn off all bass enhancers, set EQ's so it gives you a flat response, etc....

If you are crunched for cash, u can go to radio shack and pick up one of their meters...should be around 42 bucks with tax and all. You can take it back for what ever reason and get your money back. Check with them for return policy. Anywayz moving on....

Pop in your test tone cd. (i used a test tone that read from 20hz-80 i believe) it went from 20-21-22-etc....

You can have your volume set low and work your meter accordingly, since it only reads up to 126db i believe. So you dont have to crank your system to do this test.. You can have it really low. long as u are getting a reading with those tones.

Anyways, start recording your reading from the meter. note your spl on your sheet of paper...the test tone your car peaks at before it starts to drop is your resonant frequency. Which is the frequency that gets the loudest in your car. For me, mine was 49hz.

So when u go to build your box, you should build your box to peak around your resonant frequency. Now i have heard you are suppose to tune your box 1/8 , 1/4 of an octave below tuning. I gotta go throw some old folders and i can be exact about it. cant remember off the top of my head. But anyways, my box ended up needing to be tuned to 46hz so it would peak with the 49hz tuning. You can hit me up on aol (Primetime186) or send me a email ([email protected]) if you have anymore questions. Good luck with your system

oh and another thing i used my meter for before i took it back and got my cash back, was to set my amp settings.. People think if they turn up the gains on their amp all the way, it will get you louder. That can actually cause problems. Your amp to overheat and die. Well, i picked a test tone. Anyone of them. Put the cd on repeat so it constantly keeps playing that same tone. stick the meter somewhere and make sure u dont move it. and basically set my gains that way. so u can see where its actually getting the loudest at and u dont have to guess. But thats just the way i done things.