Quote Originally Posted by BlueSky View Post
How about the JL Audio subwoofer that they claim doesn't require an enclosure? It's a little pricey but could be an easy solution if they are worth a darn.
That's a good thought but the term 'free air' is misunderstood. A 'free air' or 'infinite baffle' subwoofer does require total front to rear acoustic isolation. So it must have a full enclosure. The difference is that the enclosure can be part of the boat such as a helm console or bench seating console. Also, in the case of an 'IB' 10-inch sub, the enclosure would have to be very large, from 2.25 cu.ft. up to infinite.
While the JL Audio 'IB' sub is excellent, it does not fit the application of most towboats. In a Supra/Moomba/Malibu/etc. the elevation of the bench seats are too short and the helm consoles are not sealed chambers.