I just bought 2 12" Kicker CompVR subs, and the guy at the Circuit City said that they will sound their best in a vented box. I have a crappy sealed box that I'm looking to replace anyway, so I put 2 1 1/2" diameter holes in the top over each sub. The subs now don't pound as hard and seem a little distorted. If I put them in a "real" ported box, will they sound better or should I just get a better sealed box to replace my crappy one?
A real ported box will sound better. You cannot just put holes in a box and expect great sound. The holes need tubes which must be the correct length and diameter (tuning the box). The length, diameter, and box volume are figured via the manufacturers specs on the speaker.
Thanks guys. The box I got for free from a friend who had punched the holes in it. I just sealed it up real well, but when I got these subs (to replace the Cuspid garbage that came with said box), I just wanted to see if they would work in a ported box. The old one will see its final resting place in my fireplace come Sunday when I get a new box...