So I've built several boxes and have had success w/ them in the past. I can calculate volume w/out a problem, but my question is this: Would a 1 cubic foot box that is perfectly 12"x12"x12" sound the same as a box that is also exactly 1 cubic foot but is only as deep as the subwoofer (save 1 inch between the magnet and the back wall) and as wide and high as needed to achieve the correct volume? I've got a box in my TL that are the perfect demensions for the sub and the cabin, but I'm wanting to make a new box that hugs the back of the seat more so as to not take up as much of my trunk. Would it sound the same and be tuned to the same pitch as long as the volume is the same?

 

I don't know the science behind it, but in my box building experience, shallow boxes w/ little room behind the magnet just don't sound as good. Also, I think it depends on whether the box is ported or sealed and the design of the speaker itself.

It is also never a good idea to make a perfectly square box. It is recommended that at least one of the sides are angled and the speaker should never be mounted directly in the middle of the box. Always offset the woofer off center.

 

What your problem is in that case is reflections off of the back wall bouncing and interfering with the cone milliseconds later.

Some polyfill will help. The best thing to do in that situation is probably this:

http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/pshow...=268-244&DID=7