(2) REV8 vs. (4) JL Audio M770-ETXv2 on the tower

[a0128]

Which solution would yield the best sound? (2) REV8 or (4) JL Audio M770-ETXv2 powered by a JL M500/3. The four JL's would be configured in parallel would pull 100 watts @ 2 ohms from the amp. The REV8's would pull 75 watts @ 4 ohms from the amp. Any feedback is appreciated.

[MLA]

If you are looking at sound quality, a coaxial is the way to go. If you want wake range projection, then go with the HLCD. Which ever you choose, you need an amp thats going to supply more power to them. I would also reconsider an amp thats going to drive both a sub and tower speakers.

[nyryan2001]

128- not trying to be a downer here but you can expect real feedback from me. thats not a lot of power for the speakers which ever way you go. Both are great choices, but thats a lot of money to spend to fizzile them out with less than stellar performance from weak powering.

225w ea should be your goal for the Rev8s.

150-175w each for the JLs.

power them approx 10-15% over their RMS to account for the 30%? power drop when you go from 14v with the engine running to 12v. keeps them powered up where they were designed to perform.

Take it form someone who is on his 8th? tower setup. If you are going to invest the money in quality gear, do it right and it'll sound great and you'll enjoy for years to come. Cut corners powering them and its frustrating and you continue to revisit and band-aid.

There are a lot of solid Class D amp options out there to get your tower watts up into these numbers ^^^ without breaking the bank if you want to discuss that.

[David Analog]

No way is the JL Audio XD500/3 enough power to drive either of the two speaker scenarios, nor a single pair of Wetsounds Icon8s. All tower speakers have a challenging role and need considerably more power than an in-boat speaker.
The JL Audio XD700/5 bridged into the 3-channel mode is perfect for a single pair of Rev8s. As tested, that would be 2 X 200 watts with a 12.5 volt supply, across the entire bandwidth, with all channels driven. That would compare to 2 X 300 watts taken under more liberal standards.

[a0128]

Thanks to everyone for their feedback. Here is what I have planned: JL Audio XD400/4 powering (4) JL Audio MX650 coaxial in-boats, JL Audio XD700/5 powering (2) REV8's on the tower (bridged @ 200 watts per speaker) and a JL Audio TW3 PowerWedge 10" sub (300 watts @ 2 ohms) located under the flip up observer's seat. While not a system worthy of a "G" class boat, it should do great in my Pro Air Nautique. Thanks again for everyone's input.