most car audio subs distort on the order of more than 20%. They are designed for SPL, not sound quality, unless you step out of the mass market and do a custom install.
quality bass does not call attention to itself, and you are never aware of your subwoofers presence. If your subs are set up properly, it should simply sound like your mains are playing lower, NOT LOUDER, in the bass.
car systems are rarely ever set up this way. They usually are in the format of what is known here to the home audio guys as "ghetto blasters." All bass, nothing else.
It is true, Devin. Been tried hundreds of times here alone, the car stuff is made to work in a small confined space, like an Oldsmobile. Unless you live in a car or closet, the car stuff is inappropriate. Unless your listening standards are of the car type anyhow.
ummmm... I said most in the statement directly before that...
quote me properly if you are going to quote me...
MOST car audio subs distort on the order of more than 20%. THEY (in reference to most) are designed for SPL, not sound quality, unless you step out of the mass market (infinty, audiobahn, polk) and do a custom install (morel, HSU research).
I fixed my post so hopefully it will make it easier for you to understand.