Understand This On Trunks!!

Main ideas / concepts

• Trunk enclosure limits bass output: In older, “boxy” cars (examples given: 1996 Impala, ’98s, ’88s, Regal, Cutlass Supreme, Broughams), the trunk functions like a sealed/isolated volume due to steel panels (trunk lid, sides, and a rear seat area).
• Non-airtight trunk = persistent rattling: Because the trunk area is not airtight, bass energy can’t properly transfer to the cabin. Instead, it:
  • builds up in the trunk,
  • escapes only through cracks/crevices,
  • and produces rattle/clang regardless of the audio setup.
• Speaker choice alone won’t fix the problem: The presenter argues that the type or price of speakers does not matter if the airflow/path for bass into the cabin is blocked. As a result:
  • listeners outside the car hear mostly trunk rattle, not clean bass.
• Air transfer path is the key: The only meaningful improvement (as stated) is to create a direct opening between the trunk and the cabin.

“Methodology” / instructions implied by the talk

• If you’re installing in an old-school trunk:
  • Expect rattle because the trunk enclosure won’t behave like an open path into the cabin.
  • Don’t rely on spending more money on speakers (e.g., $200 vs. $2000) to solve the issue.
• To reduce the rattle and improve bass audibility:
  • Cut an opening between trunk and cabin, similar to what Ford Explorers do:
    • Cut a hole in the back seat to allow air movement from the trunk into the cabin.
  • Alternatively, provide an opening/transfer point higher up:
    • Cut a hole in the top of the cabin (upper cabin area), or
    • use custom upholstery/work to integrate the opening more cleanly.
• Practical expectation:
  • With a proper opening, bass changes for the driver inside (“you are in the salon”).
  • For outsiders, the overall sound may still be less impressive, depending on the speaker.

Speakers / sources featured

• Speaker: The video narrator/presenter (audio indicates he runs/represents MB Enclosures and demonstrates box design knowledge)
• Referenced sources/brands: Ford Explorers, Power Acoustik, DD, Sundown
• Referenced car models/years: 1996 Impala, ’98s, ’88s, Regal, Cutlass Supreme, Broughams