5. Finishing and customizing the subwoofer box.
After finishing the box, I couldn't wait to pop it in my CR-V. After the glue and caulk had dried, we hooked it up to the rear channels of my Alpine 4-channel amplifier using 12-gauge speaker cable. It sounded excellent, and the box was definitely sturdy.

However, since naked MDF leaves something to be desired in the looks department, I checked in with Crutchfield's installation specialist, Warren Hawkins, to get some ideas on customizing a subwoofer box. He offered up plenty of inspiration and installation tips on all kinds of coverings, from vinyl to carpet and beyond!

Thanks to Kelley Blanton, and to Taylor and Boody Organbuilders of Staunton, VA, for the use of their facility and tools.