Sensitivity thoughts

[iceman1575]

As you all know, I run the EV ELX118P pro audio subs. Well, after some research, I've come to the conclusion that these subs could put out a little bit more to keep up with the top cabinets. (They are only rated to about 125dB max SPL, while the tops are 132dB). No T/S parameters available for the woofers (EVS-18K) I looked at the passive model (same woofer, no amp) and determined the woofer has a sensitivity of 96 dB 1W/1m. Took a look around, and found on PE, the B&C 18PS76, about the same power rating (600w cont 2400w peak), with a sensitivity of 99dB 1W/1m.

In a nutshell (throwing warranties and stuff out the window) would it be worth swapping the EVS woofer out for the B&C for a real noticeable difference? Being as there are no T/S param's out for the EVS woofers, and I'm trying to see if this would be an easier way to get a little more output out of these vs. another pair of 18's. Thoughts?

[Thaiboxing101]

You should contact EV and request the T/S parameters. Make sure you have the very driver model #, not just the cabinet item #. If they can give you the specs and you have a qualified acoustic engineer design you a cabinet for your specific application, it would be almost guaranteed to outperform the 99dB/1w-1m subwoofer you refered to (in your current cabinet.....for your goal. There is likely to be A frequency at which the substitute driver might be more sensitive....but not over the entire intended bandwidth of the enclosure.

[kingsuv]

While efficiency is a nice number to look at, it isn't then hard line end all to picking a driver. While you may have good results swapping drivers, i would suggest looking at a detail comparison of the 2. Also keep in mind, if you are replacing a bad one, to replace them as pairs. This will save you the headache later