does it really have to be a specific box? or can i just throw it in any old box and call it a day?

 

Well a certain air space would be good to be around theirs but if you have a warranty sometimes if your sub blows for a random reason ( not because of over wattage) they will ask to see the box and if it isn't spec they say no warranty ...

I have one though and i have an ok sized box a tiny bit smaller then spec.

 

the 10's want around .625 after driver displacement is accounted for in a sealed box. My dual chambered box for my 2 10's come out to like .615 each.

i'd build it to spec just so you know your getting what the sub wants