What are the advantages/disadvantages of using 2 10's vs just one 10. Is it just the volume? Will the sound quality be better with two than with one? Will it be the same? I think I'm going to use the new JL w7 so if using two subwoofers only yields a louder effect, then I'd like to save that extra $400.

 

If you're looking to save cash, one sub will do you fine. Aside from just being louder, you can wire two subs to be stereo, as well. Normally, the left and right channels get mixed and the sub-bass frequencies of that signal are pushed through a single sub. You can skip the mixing and get a more accurate sound with two subs wired stereo through a 2-channel amp (or two mono amps if you have room). Occassionally, the left and right channels might cancel each other out (almost the same as phasing, except it occurs digitally rather than analogously) at points in a song when they're mixed, so two stereo subs could sound a whole lot different than one sub with the same exact song.

All in all, the differences aren't that much, and if you're looking to save 400 greens, a single sub will have you cruising in style with a grin on your face in no time.

 

eww... stereo subs...

 

The new Dolby 10.2 Standard uses stereo subs, they are placed in the front spread apart. I think the guys at dolby know a hell of a lot more about audio than anyone here, so I am gonna go with them on this and say that stereo subs are better.

 

That's because 1 or 2 new movies has 2 bass tracks. Every other movie in history, along with 99.99999% of all recorded music uses mono bass tracks. Except for some jazz and most classical music, nothing records bass in stereo... and even if it did, you're crazy if you think you'll hear a difference when you put 2 subs 5" apart in the back of your car.

The only practical advantage to having 2 subs is the 6dB gain.