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MisinformationAll right, guys. Here's the deal: I have been working in car audio for about three years now. I love it. But now I'm starting to get confused. I recently moved to another town, on a job offer from another car audio retailer, where there are several brands that I haven't sold before. I'm starting to meet the new reps, and I enjoy learning about the new product, but there is a conflict: I've always had favorites, brands that I prefer over others, but some of my reps completely trash other companies.
I understand the territorial competition, but this has been setting a lot of doubt in my mind. Right now, my store is debating the acquisition of Diamond Audio. In his initial presentation, the rep ripped the likes of JL Audio, Rockford, (which is fine, their quality control is nearing that of Rampage these days...), Boston, Alpine...you get the point.
Being an avid reader of your publication I read the recent review of JL's new amp (the 300/2, specifically); and being a JL fan myself, I took offense. (Background: my new place of employment doesn't carry JL, whereas my previous one did; that's where I acquired my fondness for JL. This particular rep figured he could blaze anything we didn't carry, and be fine.... I should've kept my mouth shut.)
Specifically, I objected to his statement that JL's amps were constructed very cheaply, and furthermore, that the RIPS system JL just "came out with" is an ancient design using a string of resistors to regulate the amp's cheap shortcomings. His point was that any well-built amp should be unregulated and by regulating it, it merely limits the amp. I pointed out that your magazine had labeled it one of the most sonically perfect amps you had ever tested. You know his retaliation? He ventured that JL paid CA&E for a good review.
The debate was unorganized and crossed several brand names and products, the only other of which I will mention is subwoofers. He ripped incessantly on the new W7, which I think sounds great. I also attended JL's training seminar on the W7, which, aside from probably brainwashing me somewhat, impressed me greatly. It seems everyone has a "W7" these days -JL (obviously), Diamond (thus the debate), and Kenwood & JBL (both of which I have not heard).
This is where I need you. What is the best? PLEASE tell me you aren't taking bribes these days. I would love to see some comparisons of these subs, maybe some components, and these amps. Also, I am completely in the dark in regards to Diamond Audio. I haven't seen anything that I can remember as far as tests and reviews go. I apologize for the wordiness and stream of consciousness writing style here, but this is really bugging me...Thanks a ton,Isaac Horn
While not a "troubleshooting" question, I want to respond since I receive an untold number of letters asking, "What speaker/amp/head unit/etc is best". Normally, I pass those questions over for technical topics that are not based on personal preference. Over the years writing the Troubleshooting column, I've never explained my position until reading your letter. Maybe it's time...
First off, there is no such thing as bad product that endures. Having been in the industry for nearly 30 years, I know this to be a fact. I've seen new products pop up and last only a single year before becoming history. I can name brands that you have never heard of. But the products you see today are almost all veteran brands that are good regardless of any unique characteristics they might have. Even the little booster-equalizers that sell for $30 at the flea market are worth the money to the majority of their owners. That is why they are still around even though we would never consider the product for our rides. They give good value, not high performance.