They way it's always been with me is two subs. I've been looking at the sound splinter RLs to put in a sealed box (not a fan of ports)

Would is the sound difference with 2 subs having 500watts each (RL-p12s)?

Or just one getting fed 1000 watts (RL-p15)?

I've never drove around in any car with just one sub so whats you guys take on that?

 

I had that same mindset when I was a young lad about 2 is better than one...however, I run 1 15 now and I'm perfectly happy.

 

i own a RLp 15 for some time now. in the right box (3.5 cubic ft ported, tuned from 28-35) and fed 1kw will get stupid loud. i personally prefer a low tune...from 28-32 or so.

 

It is impossible for any of us to tell you which WILL sound better. We can tell you what has the capability of being louder.

1. Pair of 12's sealed with 500 watts each, has the advantage in surface area but 1/2 the power per driver.

2. Assuming both subs are the same model, ie. use the same motor, it will take roughly the same amount of power, using the 15" version, also sealed, has a disadvantage in the area of cone advantage but will make better use of the power you have.

I would say they both have very similar potential given your information. Either would work just fine and have similar output given the correct box, power supply, etc...

 

Ive always been a fan of single sub-setups. With the right box and power, (just about) any sub can get pretty loud and sound decent. My last few setups have been 1 12".

 

1 12" for me too... unless its the 8's in the rear deck.. which it will be soon...

 

Can't say what SOUNDS better. That all depends on what you're looking for in your sound. Different drivers have different sounds.
In terms of volume though, thats all about the SPL, which is determined by what volume of air is being physically pushed. Cone area is a cheif determinate. So given 1000 watts RMS, two 12" drivers at 500 each has more surface area than 1 15" driver. 2 12's is (generally speaking) louder (assuming its the same sub).

in most cases 15's have lower fs, so play lower, etc. But as a general rule, 2 12s is louder than 1 15.
If there's any reason you want a 15, go for it...because you wont notice a massive difference.
also - depends on your amp? Can you wire your amp to one sub to produce 1000 watts rms at the proper ohms (or 500 to 2 @ the correct load)???

I vote two 15s :-D

 

^ but two 12s sealed might have the same output as a single 15 ported.

 

eh, go with what you know, so i'm get two 15" and have an enclosure made. thanks guys

 

hell yeah, 2 15s all the way

 

single ported 15 can easily beat 2 12's sealed with the right box. I still miss my shivas though...