Hi,

This question is purely for my own knowledge ...

What are better ... 2 or 3 way componenets?? Why?

Assume that the car would have a sub.

I ask this because a buddy of mine and I were talking ... and he is thinking of putting 8inch JL Free Air Subs, with 2-way components in the door of his car (not a Corvette) ... he says that they will work similar to 3-ways because they will be amped separately ... and that it will be better than the 2-ways alone ...

Please just tell me your opinions ... and why you have come to them ...

 

he is right. the idea is to bring the bass as far forward as possible. this allows the sub to image more centrally.

the goal is to freak out the sound, so it truely sounds like it is coming from everywhere.

neato, eh?

 

Boy, think this will strike a big IMHO debate :lol:

OK, here is mine.
It depends on how the system is crossed over. If the JL are used as a good mid bass, then yes, I believe this would be a fine 3 way system.

Problems with 3 way systems is the old KISS method (Keep it simple stupid) Yes, three ways are more elabrate and can sound better and more balanced if done RIGHT. This is the main problem. Pathlength differences, soundstage layering, etc all become more pronounced in a complex system. Without the proper set-up, equalization, install, and tuned ear, you really could create more problems then solve.

Although, it does sound like you know your stuff well enough to do it or get it done correctly, does your buddy? :D

 

As long as it's crossed over correctly and you don't screw it up with rear speakers then yes, the idea is to draw the bass forward for proper imaging.

 

Thanks guys ... keep the opinions coming ...

 

You want your sound curve to be flat. All things constant, such as speaker brand and grade, a 3 way system will sound better than a 2 way system. Regardless, component systems 2 way or 3 way are not designed to be bass producers. They are designed to work in conjunction with a sub system. A good 2 way setup will have a tweeter for highs and a midrange for 60-120hz+ depending on recommended crossover point. A three way system will break up the midrange coverage into two parts. This is beneficial as it makes each midrange more efficient at its particluar job. However, you would want the setup and crossover points to be put together by a manufacturer and not do it yourself. The maker will know the strengths and weaknesses of their equipment and will set the crossover points, efficiencies, etc. to match and give you as flat a curve as possible. Because of this the crossover is usually done by a fixed passive crossover after the amp, which means you use the same number of amps for either setup. Using a 3 way will sound better than a two way. Using a 2 way with a sub will sound better than a 3 way. Using a 3 way with a sub will sound the best, be the most expensive, and take the most work to install. If you are thinking of spending a specific amount, I'd get a 2 way. A lower level 3 way will get its tail kicked by a better 2 way for the same price. I would only recommend three ways if money was no object and spending $1500 on a setup just for the front speakers was not a problem.
Your buddy is correct because the setup he is using covers the full frequency range, not because they are bi-amped. It also will put the bass in the doors and freeup the rear well for something else.


[Modified by 92TripleBlack, 1:05 PM 10/25/2002]

 

He's right...