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Old 05-14-2013, 04:35 AM   #3
ft_sjo
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Depends on several factors, mainly around driver efficiency and enclosure design. Assuming the latter will be optimal for the particular sub, perceived loudness of a sub can vary by a factor of 400% or more with the same power depending on efficiency.

Back in the old days it was all about high efficiency drivers, low xmax and large/ideal enclosures. I've still got some 15" subs which are 94dB efficient, and are only rated at 300W RMS but will be louder than the modern day equivalent which will have maybe 20mm xmax, only 86dB efficienct and burning up 1kw or so.

Bottom line is.. pick a sub and get an appropriate amp for it. Don't under-power a sub and this will most likely lead you down a bad path of clipping and the impending doom of burnt voice coilsl
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