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It's time to replace my 98 LS400's factory rear deck subwoofer, nakamichi sound system if it matters. I was told I had to use an infinite baffle subwoofer because the sub uses the trunk as its enclosed space, but I looked into free air subwoofers because they are much cheaper. What's the difference between these kinds of subs? Does anyone have any suggestions for me?
If your factory sub is still working then it wouldn't make sense to spend the time to cut & swap it out w/ another free air sub. Instead you'll be better off getting a nice sub w/ enclosure & a mono amp combo. I went w/ JL 12W6v3 sub, JL 500/1 amp & couldn't be happier. They're kind of pricey so if it's out of your price range then go w/ some thing a bit cheaper. You do need to remove the stock sub so you have an open port into your cabin.
A free air sub will work fine. Infinity makes a nice 8" model that looks like it will pound.
Like Superfast stated though you will get more out of your system if you put in a larger sub with enclosure and mono amp. If you don't want to spend the money then just buy a factory OEM sub. I see them on ebay all the time. Hell I have all my old speakers too and the sub is pristine. Im not selling though but just saying that you can find them used in great shape.
Personally I'd just find an OEM sub and swap it out.
It is located on the rear deck. You can pull the grill off and see it.
You'll have to pull the rear deck cover to remove it though. and to remove the rear deck cover you need to remove the pillar arm covers at rear window and to do all that you need to remove the rear seat.