Bigger box = better lows?

[Neckbeard]

So, i was just looking at a bunch of different brands of woofers. And some of them say (for example) 1.25cu ~ 2cu. Why the range? would you want a bigger box for better lows???

[ToNasty]

more power smaller box, less power bigger box

[Neckbeard]

more power smaller box, less power bigger box

That doesn't make very much sense, could you explain some more? It seems like for more power you would want a bigger box

[98GCLimited]

Generally a larger box will be more efficient so if you arent running a ton of power to the subs, you will get more output from a larger volume enclosure.

[ToNasty]

basically smalller box gives more cusion when running more power

[dereileak]

a smaller box builds more pressure behind the cone which allows for better con control when pushing more power, with a larger box it is more efficient but less pressure which means you cant throw as much power at it due to the fact that you will reach the woofers xmax quicker. Tuning and port effect all of this though, I believe the port is used most around the turning it is designed for and other then that the pressure inside holds pretty well

[Neckbeard]

a smaller box builds more pressure behind the cone which allows for better con control when pushing more power, with a larger box it is more efficient but less pressure which means you cant throw as much power at it due to the fact that you will reach the woofers xmax quicker. Tuning and port effect all of this though, I believe the port is used most around the turning it is designed for and other then that the pressure inside holds pretty well

Thank you!!!

[Quiet]

basically smalller box gives more cusion when running more power

Actually, that's generally false. A smaller box is harder for the suspension to work against, so for the same output, a smaller box generally requires more power. Conversely, a larger box can do more with the back wave and usually gives more output for the same power given the same tuning.

A smaller box does nothing for thermal power handling, so don't go putting your sub in a tiny box and tripling the RMS on it.

EDIT: was ninja'd, however I will say this... larger volume in the enclosure allows for lower tuning, and better low end extension. I have a 8" sub in a 1 cu ft box tuned to 30hz in my office that plays down in the 20s with ease. Fortunately the suspension is tight enough it remains transient and can keep up with the music.

[banginhummer]

Also, bigger boxes help produce lower bass notes

[dereileak]

I would think getting a nice stiff suspension + big box + low tuning + lots of port would be the best option for music especailly if you want to play low, spl is different and I cant really comment on it