im looking to get a nicer amp with an internal crossover for my jl 12w3. what would be an optimial power output for an amp? the sub handles 300w continous i think. would the jl 250/1 amp be a good choice?

 

http://www.jlaudio.com/subwoofers/pdfs/12W3v2_MAN.pdf
jl says at a minumum you need 75 watts rms,150 watts rms is optimum, and 300w rms is the maximum for that sub. because this is a dvc sub make sure you can run at 4 ohms so you dont overdrive tha amp
the 250/1 puts out 250 W RMS @ 1.5 ohm-4 ohm (11V-14.5V)
i was gonna go 10w3 with a 250/1 for my setup
i hope this helps
bill

 

I would get the JL 250/1 or if you're going to upgrade the rest of the speakers also the 500/5 is a great unit as well. You won't be dissapointed with the 250/1 though. I've heard many setups such as your suggesting and they are very nice. Currently I run two 12w3's off of the 500/2 in my daily driver and that is also a sweet combination.
-Nic

 

the 12w3--can take alot more than 300rms.
And you want more power on those subs.The 250 want be enuff if you really want that sub to pump.
I have 3 jl audio12w3v2,with a hifonics xi zues pushing about 1200rms to them.
All jl subs are under rated.I love there subs but there amps are a not for me-If you drop the ohms on there amps they dont gain any power.

 

Go with a crossfire amp. You could push 400-450 and it would be about optimum. JL seriously understates the rms handling power. I ran a crossfire VR302 (300/2) for my 2 JL 12w0's and it wasn't near enough (it was recommended from the dealer I purchased the set at, and then after I complained they said it could handle alot more, bastards).