Need Opinions: JL W7 vs. Eclipse

[mindtrip1016]

I have read many different reviews of both the JL Audio 12w7 and the Eclipse SW9152. Most of the reviews have been in magazines and might be biased. I am looking for unbiased oppinions from members who have heard either or both. So far, I have read and heard nothing but good things about the Eclipse 15", but I have never heard one in person. The JL so far has recieved mixed reviews. Some claiming its the god of all subwoofers, the bench mark to where others fall short, while others say that it is overpriced/overhyped, can't handle the recommended power rating w/o bottoming out, and its more of an SPL sub than the SPL/SQ sub that JL states that it is. I have heard the w7 in person and was pleased with its sound at 350-400 watts. Some say that around the 750watt mark, the sub becomes muddy and boomy. I'm looking for good SQ.

[cougFLIP]

I hav heard both and would say that the w7 has better spl and sq, the eclipse doesnt provide much sq if any in my opinion and often sounds as if it misses some beats. I say the w7 is better! Maybe go with an 8 or 10 w7 they hit very tight !

[mindtrip1016]

Thanks for your oppinion. I wish I knew people who have these subs installed in their vehicles. I heard the 10 and the 12w7 on the showroom floor. I was impressed with both at moderate volume levels. I am only looking at the 12" JL and the 15" Eclipse because their RMS levels are rated at the same as my amplifier. That, and I currently have two 8" JL w3's for the midbass. Looking at the larger speaker for the subbass.

[Wastedkid]

If i were you id do the Eclipse. For 1, everyone is using JL, and they are a bit over priced. Ive heard many eclipse subs, not the one you mentioned but i love them. I think they are both great subs, but set yourself apart with the eclipse.

[smbmxr3]

go to elemental designs (http://edesignaudio.com/product.php?cid=2&pid=21&cur=USD). The 16ov.2 is what I have in my car with thier amp. I have heard a 13w7 in person and would definitely choose my subwoofer over the w7. The loudness was around the same but the elemental woofer is clearer....and much cheaper.

[GrandMasterKhan]

If your wanting SQ stick with either 10s or 12s

[r6gxxr]

At the risk of not starting an audio argument, I used to sell eclipse everything and install them professionally also. And I have heard the jl's. I personally would go with the eclipse's, your sound quality and spl basically just depend on what kind of enclosure you want for them and what kind of music your listening to, as to how they will respond. I know that with the eclipse's you will have excellent sound quality! Thats what they strive for in all of their products. And like it was said earlier, I would stick with the 12's. Don't worry about matching what your amp is rated at the eclipse's won't blow.

[slomoe]

get an eqlipse aluminum sub. The best $240 you will spend (on ebay) otherwise 350+ in stores.
Plus if space is an issue they use very small enclosures.