In a direct comparison the JL f113 appeared to be very nicely constructed and subjectively and very impressive close second to my DD-18 in its sonic presentation at that time. I think its important to point out JL Audio's almost instant periodical and boutique audio popularity may be responsible for a large population of the brand in our community along with an increased instance of failure discussions. The actual failure percentage may be nearer to many other brands. Your failure may have been addressed as an updated part or in JLs newer version.
An observation I made when replacing my Velodyne DD-18 with two irregularly placed DD-12 Plus. I ran the Auto EQ program through all three units. The amount of cone travel between a single 12 appeared greater than the 18. After the Auto EQ procedure for the two 12s combined their cone travel was now less than the single 18. The amount of gain equalization was also much less with the two 12s. Most of the room nodes were eliminated giving a sense of improved room loading and an overall more enjoyable presentation. I would assume two 18s would decrease driver excursion further.
JohnK makes a huge point regarding internally mounted electronics, the idea simply flies in the face of fundamental audiophilia isolation.
An observation I made when replacing my Velodyne DD-18 with two irregularly placed DD-12 Plus. I ran the Auto EQ program through all three units. The amount of cone travel between a single 12 appeared greater than the 18. After the Auto EQ procedure for the two 12s combined their cone travel was now less than the single 18. The amount of gain equalization was also much less with the two 12s. Most of the room nodes were eliminated giving a sense of improved room loading and an overall more enjoyable presentation. I would assume two 18s would decrease driver excursion further.
JohnK makes a huge point regarding internally mounted electronics, the idea simply flies in the face of fundamental audiophilia isolation.