Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Audio Will a small tear in sub cone affect bass

There is this used JL 12w0 on ebay I was thinking about getting but there is a tear in the sub cone. I was wondering if you'll think that that will impede the playback of it. The seller said it sounds fine, and that I could get it for like $50 shipped, was just wondering what what you guys would advise.

Also I was wondering if those $20 sub boxes off ebay are any good. I would build my own, but I dont have any of the tools, or experience building things. You can tell I'm trying to get a cheap system by the things I'm picking out.

Thanks for your help in advance.

Of course the seller is gonna say its fine. He's trying to sell it! Depending on the size of the tear, it won't make a major difference, but remember, speakers were meant to function with the cone and surround sealed. I think if the bass hits hard enough, you may hear a nice popping sound. Normally JL's sell for alot more than that. I just think this guy is trying to get a little money since there is a tear and he knows its practically useless. I would say forget it and get another sub. Do a search. They talk about cheap, yet nice sounding subs all the time in this forum. As far as the box goes, I don't see why it wouldn't work, but I am partial to Q-Logic boxes myself. Hope I could be of some service to you.

maverik, thanks your advice is pretty helpful.

here's a pic of the sub in question:

Yikes its on the surround yet...don't go for it.

Thats a nice size tear in it. I'm not sure about this but I know there are surround rebuild kits that you could possibly get for that. Then I would say go for it. Probably cost you about $20-$30 if I remember right. If you have the ability to fix it, go for it. If not, keep on searching.

I would buy a sub that doesn't have a tear in it. At least then you know it's good.

True with what they did.. That subs a no go unless its like 2 dollars

Dude, do what you want. It's a big-ass JL sub for $50. I used to tinker with speakers a lot when I was in my teens. And one thing I learned is that the foam surrounding of a speaker can easily be repaired with a little silicon. No worries, just spread it on even and about 1/2 inch past the end of the tear. You'll be good as new. Save some $$ too. Now that doesn't mean the voicecoil isn't fried, but if you buy it without hearing it first that's the chance you're gonna' have to take. Is the glass half full or half empty? Your call.

i wouldnt mess with it

I got one of the slot ported boxes and it sounds great, it was the one ment for kicker subs, but it had the same specs needed for my infinity 1232's. You could buy enough 3/4 MDF from home depot for $11 do build your own box, you just need a saw some screws and good glue.