ok. i have been hearing about IB sub setups...wtf is this? is this better than a regular sub??? i have been told that it is...why would someone do this??? and if it is better, why doesn't EVERYONE do this??? please help me understand??? thanks

Infinite Baffle

A type of speaker enclosure which essentially forgoes the enclosure by using only a baffle or front panel onto which the speaker drivers are connected. Infinite baffle designs do not make use of sealed enclosures or ports. These designs are seen primarily in car audio systems where speakers are often installed in the back dash below the rear window with no enclosure; their backs open to the trunk.

Infinite Baffle Subwoofer

Infinite Baffle Subwoofer

Here's where the "infinitely baffled" gather.

"Cult of the Infinitely Baffled"

but are they better than the standard box subs??? i have heard that they are..truth? fiction?

Dunno. Never heard one. Define what you mean by "better." They probably can play lower and louder, but that doesn't necessarily translate to higher quality bass.

Requires installation (your dwelling becomes your "enclosure" or at least part of it) and is quite expensive (you need multiple drivers and very many watts to push them). For most people, it is simply neither necessary nor cost-effective compared to professionally-designed traditional enclosures. If you own your own home and like to build, tweak, design and have the money, you would probably find such a project very satisfying.