New bass on my 196

[78LS2]

Well, the leaking heater ruined my two old JLs in a sealed box, so I had no choice but to replace them. I didn't really want to put another big box in the bow, so I decided to go with a free air JL 10" on the bulkhead next to the driver's feet. I had never used a free air sub, and was quite skeptical. However, after putting it in I must admit that it hits quite hard. In fact, it is much louder and just as deep as the two previous 10s (although they were "sealed" inside the bow).

I did have to shore-up the bulkhead/wall a bit, as the sub is quite heavy. But other than that, it was a simple install.

Anyway, anybody looking to put some good bass on a 196 and not take up any room, I would highly recommend the JL 10.

[greatwhitenorth]

RE: New bass on my 196

Was this hooked up to the stock 196 stereo? If so could you explain the steps involved. Does this sub have its own amp? I have a 2004 196 ltd. and would like to put a sub exactly where you did. Thanks.

[EarmarkMarine]

Couldn't agree more. JL is definitely the best in the free-air class. For anyone considering a free-air or whose boat dictates a free-air, there are a few guidelines to follow to ensure it performs to potential.

A free-air needs an infinite baffle so a compartment volume of at least several cubic feet is essential. If you cram the compartment too tight with vests and stuff the performance will suffer. The environment does not have to be perfectly airtight, but tight front to rear isolation is critical in the immediate proximity of the woofer. If the mounting panel is flexible you have to reinforce it so that it is both rigid and secure.

GWN
Passive subs require a separate amplifier. Of the self-powered and enclosed subwoofers the Infinity may be the only one worth considering. I'd go with an independent amp and sub.

David E.M.

[sodbuster88]

I would love to see some pics of install and especially how to reinforce the bulkhead. I am currently running a 10" Momo in a custom box in my 2004 196, but am a bit unhappy with the punch.