josheya's Full Review: Pioneer TS-SW2541D Car Subwoofer
Introduction
Get ready for some impressive sound from a relatively small package with the Alpine Type R 12" dual voice coil subwoofer. I have owned several different subwoofers from several different makers, and used them in a variety of vehicles. I've used budget subwoofers and a few competition class subwoofers (back when I was single and had money, hahaha), and I've worked in audio and electronics sales for about two years now. I've had the opportunity to see, plan, and install some really incredible systems, and some systems that were expensive, but disappointing. One of my main goals when I buy a product - especially in electronics - is Bang for Your Buck. If you fit into that category like I do, then you will love this sub!
Design
The Type R looks solid and mean at any angle. It's a simple design, but very effective. It looks serious, strong, and durable - at a glance - and there's not really anything that flashy about it. It has a thick, tough ribbed rubber surround, and a good-sized magnet. Easy push-style connectors for each voice coil are right next to each other. It's a heavy subwoofer and has the impressive appearance of solid design, quality materials, and good durability. In my car, one of these is more than enough, so I don't use up my whole trunk.
Sound
I have my 12" Type R installed in a 1.25 cu. ft. Q-Logic single slot vent box. I'm also powering it with a hot new Kenwood 9103D subwoofer amp. with an RMS of 900W at 2 ohms I was expecting some pretty serious sound, and I wasn't disappointed. It hits hard, low, and is very responsive. I have heard this sub underpowered, and I don't recommend putting a cheap, low end amplifier with your type R. It has tremendous power handling capabilities. It is not, however, a paper cone, and the rubber surround is very thick, so it takes some real power to make this subwoofer shine, and shine it does! It's clean, responsive, and puts out enough bass to vibrate your internal organs. I have to turn it down after about 5 minutes or I'll get a headache. I like this sub with a slot vent for extra sound while still being clean. I have heard it in a sealed box, and I prefer the slot vent. I wouldn't use a bandpass box. You don't really need it if you're willing to get a good enough amp.
Build Quality & Durability
This sub really is built to last. I have yet to see one come back with problems. It has such thick rubber and a strong cone material. The cast aluminum frame is about as solid as it gets. Your kevlar-reinforced cone should provide years of enjoyment, and so far this product trends to do just that.
Value
It really boils down to bang for your buck. I have yet to see a subwoofer that can beat the performance/price ratio that the Alpine Type R provides. It's durable, has high power handling, great sound, and you can get one for around $200. I've heard other subs in this price range that don't come close. This definitely carries my seal of approval for value.
Conclusion
This is an incredible sub. I'm excited to put some years on it. All my music sounds great, and I listen to alternative, rock, country, and even a little classical. So far I haven't found a song that my Type R won't reproduce well. This product will not disappoint you. My only advice is, use a slot-vent or sealed box, and power it with a decent amplifier. You can score one of the great Kenwood 9103D's for around $250-$300, and it will power the Type R well. I also recommend a 1 farad capacitor for this setup to protect your alternator and battery.
My current audio system:
Alpine Type R 12"
Q-Logic Slot Vent 1.25 cu. ft. box
Kenwood 9103D Mono Amp
Pioneer P7800MP with 5v pre-outs
Infinity Reference 6.5" 2 way speakers (x4)
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