Here's my situation: just bought the new Kenwood MP3 player. It's powering the stock Bose speakers, and in the trunk i have the Kenwood 401M Mono amp powering one JL 12W3 in a sealed enclosure. it sounds OK, but not quite good enough (the gain's up ALL the way, and there's distorted bass as i turn the system up loud). what do i need to fix this? i've spoken to an installer at hifi buys, and he said i need to get a head unit w/ a built in crossover as well as sub controls. so as of now, i'm looking into that. would another sub help? should i go w/ a sealed enclosure when i get the new JL 12W3? HELP!

 

first, turn your gains down, there is no reason that they shoudl be up all the way. This is most likely the cause of your distortion. If you are looking for more bass, your best bet is to get another sub, and make sure the amp you have has enough power to push the sub or subs. if you need more help please list the power from the amp, crossovers, and the power to push the sub.