JL Audio produces a wide range of subs and has made a name for themselves since they dropped their top-selling line of subwoofers way back in the early 1990s. Their newest model comes loaded with the latest in subwoofer technology and features a high RMS power rating, lower power needs, and a durable design that helps to protect the sub against damage in the event it’s installed incorrectly.
This JL Audio W6V3 subwoofer comes in at twelve inches and is a passive sub that features a patented cooling system, injection molded cones, and much more. It definitely comes loaded with all the right specs that the serious sound system enthusiast is looking for and an innovative design that optimizes this sub for outstanding bass performance.
Our Verdict
The manufacturer clearly thought of everything when they designed the W6V3.
This model features an ultra-long voice coil design, injection molded cones, and a patented cooling structure that will prevent the sub from overheating during extended use or if the sub is installed incorrectly. It also features a six hundred watt RMS rating for ultimate bass, which is what you can usually expect from a sub in this price range.
Overall, the sub’s performance and extra features tell us that this is a model that’s designed to last and one that can carry the load of your entire sound system.
Read on to learn more about this sub’s sound quality, performance, and innovative features that you won’t find anywhere else.
Table of Contents
JL Audio 12W6v3D4 Review: Overview and Features
As we mentioned earlier, this model features a patented cooling structure. This cooling system is designed to channel air around the voice coils in order to prevent overheating and to improve fidelity. The sub’s suspension design incorporates a heavy rubber trim that helps to improve the sub’s durability and protect it against damage in the event it’s mounted incorrectly.
Product Rating:
- Ultra-long voice coil design
- Patented cooling structure
- Injection molded cones
- 600 RMS rating
- Very durable construction
Cone Design
These injection molded cones feature mineral filled polypropylene, for increased durability and improved sound with minimal distortion.
Power
This sub can be driven with as little as two hundred watts, however, for better sound quality, we recommend using an amp that offers four to six hundred watts of continuous power.
Additionally, this model can be used in a sealed or ported sub enclosure and requires just one cubic foot of air space when used in a sealed enclosure. This space-saving design is perfect for car owners who don’t have much space to work with.
Cooling Technology
Overheating is a common problem with lower priced subs, but it can also happen with higher-end models if you don’t choose the right type of enclosure. However, JL Audio has solved this problem by introducing its patented cooling technology structure.
This consists of a bullet-shaped structured located inside the pole vent. It’s placed directly in the center of the sub’s magnet structure and works by increasing air velocity and directing air flow in order to significantly reduce voice coil temperature. This will improve the sub’s reliability and fidelity while working to prevent the sub from overheating during longer use or in the event the sub has been installed incorrectly.
The way this cooling structure was designed is pretty impressive. Basically, the harder the sub has to work, the more air it moves, helping to keep it nice and cool.
Ultimate Control
The dynamic motor analysis system is designed to improve the W7AE’s motor behavior. And the result? The motor remains linear to motor force while maintaining a stable magnetic field. This results in reduced distortion and tighter bass.
Voice Coil
The sub’s ultra-long voice coil allows for improved control and powerful handling, which is exactly what you need in a sub with this RMS rating.
Pros
- Ultra-long voice coil design
- Patented cooling structure
- Injection molded cones
- 600 RMS rating
- Very durable construction
Cons
- Price
- This passive sub will require the use of an amp in order to operate
- You will need to purchase an enclosure
Related Questions
Can I Use Two of These Subs for My Setup?
You can, but in most cases, it will be overkill. Additionally, the price can be steep considering you’ll need to purchase an amp that’s powerful enough to run two subs with this RMS rating, in addition to two enclosures.
If you’re on a budget and searching for a dual sub setup that can offer the most bang for your buck we recommend the Pyramid BNPS102 Dual Car Subwoofers + Box + 1100W Mono Amp + Amp Kit, which comes with everything you need to install your subs, all for a price that’s affordable.
What’s Installation Like for This Sub?
Installation for a passive sub will be more complex than the installation process for an active sub setup. It will also heavily depend on where you plan on installing the enclosure in your vehicle, and the type of enclosure you choose. If you’re new to sub installation, click here to read our article on how to put subwoofer in car.
Is This Sub Compatible with Other JL Audio Amps?
Yes. This model should work with most amps produced by this manufacturer. However, it’s important that you check out the amp’s specs in order to determine whether or not a particular model is tough enough to power a sub with a six hundred RMS rating. To learn more about passive subs and how to choose a compatible amp, click here to read our subwoofers buyer’s guide.
Conclusion and Rating
Product Rating:
This JL Audio offers the latest in passive subwoofer technology, including a patented cooling structure that prevents the sub from overheating and an ultra-long voice coil for improved bass quality.
Overall, despite the steep price, this sub is well-designed and comes with all the right features you’ll need for a single sub setup. We gave this model a rating of four and a half out of five stars.