Mtxthunderlink XTL210P MSRP: $499
A dominant player in the automotive aftermarket industry, MTX is well known for their subwoofers. Being a dominant player doesn't happen overnight - it results from the dedication the company shows to the consumer and their understanding of the market. The MTX ThunderLink is just another one of those products that proves the company is committed to providing designs to suit consumers' needs.
The MTX ThunderLink XTL210P is a self-contained subwoofer package designed to make efficient use of cargo space and simplify installation while maximizing bass response. The enclosure's high-density polyethylene resin has natural dampening characteristics and allows the enclosure to be formed easily during manufacturing. The low-profile box with a black-matte finish measures 37" x 16" x 6.5". Along the front side of the enclosure is a pair of 10" drivers. One of the drivers is active, providing the audio reproduction, with the other being a passive radiator used to extend bass response. Located in the center of the enclosure above the pair of protective grilles are four audio adjustments consisting of bass boost, crossover, gain control and phase.
On the sides of the enclosure are a set of mounting brackets that secure the enclosure to the vehicle. The adjustable brackets in conjunction with the low-profile design allow for a variety of mounting options from securing the cabinet to rear seats, trunk floors and even to the underside of rear decks. The brackets are adjusted in increments of 0.75" and can extend out to provide a maximum clearance of 3.75" from the enclosure. The brackets also offer extra versatility in their ability to tilt 7.5 to 15 degrees in either direction. If the overall width is just a tad too wide for your application, the brackets can be flipped around so the bracket mounting lip is located underneath the enclosure.
Integrated inside the cabinet is a highly efficient 200-watt amplifier designed specifically for this system. Its power, ground and optional remote turn-on connections are located on the backside of the enclosure next to a 20-amp fuse. The remote turn-on connection isn't needed if the high-level inputs are used for signal input. In this instance, the "Smart-Engage" auto-sensing function will activate the amplifier when an audio signal is detected. This installation-friendly feature allows for inexperienced users to connect the setup directly to their factory head unit.
Located adjacent to the RCA inputs is the hook up for the EBC (Electronic Bass Control), which allows the user to adjust the bass output from the driver's seat when the supplied EBC cable is connected.
The trilingual manual describes the installation and setup of the XTL210P, including plumbing the car for power and ground and each of the tuning adjustments. Pictures are used to illustrate the various adjustments available with the mounting brackets to accommodate the desirable installation method. The overall package weighs around 40 pounds and carries a one-year manufacturer's warranty.