Panel insulation over factory sub

[rayxi]

I've noticed that there isn't an opening for the sub in the panel that covers it. I asked the dealer about it thinking that there may be a different panel with a speaker grill on it but they said no.

While the low frequencies of a sub should go right through the panel I think it would distort and attenuate the sound. The factory subs are fairly wimpy to begin with so I'm sure it's affecting the sound quality. I've driven around with the panel off and it does sound better.

I'm thinking about cutting out the insulation but I'm not sure of what to do with the plastic panel itself. If I cut through that as well I'm worried that the panel won't be very rigid and it may rattle.

Any suggestions (other than buying a better aftermarket sub)?