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The Encore
My last several speaker projects have been somewhat unique
and specialized, and were designed for specific applications. Its
great when you need a speaker for a particular circumstance,
but probably not so good for the average audio enthusiast. As
such, when a request came up for a pair of "normal" bookshelf
speakers, I was excited at the chance to make a pair of nice allaround
compact speakers. Nowadays, it seems difficult to find
a compact yet not micro design; many people seem to either
gravitate towards extremely small satellites or larger three-ways
or MTMs. This speaker fills the niche between these created size
extremes.
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The Triska Sub
ShawnA likes to build speakers. Lots of speakers. From
his earliest "hot rod" modifications of existing systems, to a
serious (and satisfying) design involving Dayton RS drivers,
to the mysterious and much anticipated "Project X," our guest
designer from Indiana has delivered a new twist on an old
theme-under-desk bass.
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Usher 701 Speaker System
Designed by Dr. Joseph D'Appolito
Due to the existing relationship between Usher Audio and the
world-renowned designer Dr. Joseph D'Appolito, Joe was the
obvious choice to create the Usher speaker kits. Before Parts
Express could develop a kit (custom crossover board, precut
baffle, instruction manual, etc.), a prototype of the design
needed to be built. For all our hardcore DIY customers, here
is a "preview" of the first design by Mr. D'Appolito and the steps
I went through to build the prototype. Enjoy! Stay tuned, more
designs to come!
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The Syphons
Building speakers is an excellent way to express creativity in fabrication, acoustics, and aesthetic design. Unfortunately, to achieve the best sonic properties, the physical design of speakers is somewhat limited by the available drivers and the appropriate acoustic configurations. However, even within these constraints, there is still plenty of room for experimentation and creativity in shape, finish, and texture.
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Totally Tubular
I am always searching for a speaker enclosure design
that is an alternative to ordinary rectangular box styles.
Unfortunately, what I've found is either rare (with no local
demo sites available) or unrealistically expensive. I had never
seen a baffle-less speaker until further research produced
a couple of leads, and I was curious about how the design
would impact imaging and the sense of space. This type
of baffle-less design is commercially produced by exactly
one company and typically retails for around $11,000 with
subwoofer. I had already produced a prototype with decent
results, so when approached about submitting a project I set
a goal of exceeding every aspect of the previous design.
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The Blue Wonders
I suppose I must be suffering from some sort of inadequacy complex of late, as once again I have created a massive speaker system involving even larger drivers than before. I received many comments and questions regarding the use of the Magna Cum Laudes for DJ applications, so figured I would put something together that was more directed towards that application. Not that this design is specifically limited to DJ applications, it would also work well for club installs or portable PA situations.
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Magna Cum Laude
If you were into audio before the dawn of home theaters in a box, compact mini-systems, and iPods, you are probably wondering what happened to the large, floorstanding speakers of yesterday. Remember the classic Cerwin Vega, Pioneer, Technics, or other speakers that used big 15" woofers and had sensitivities over 90 dB? I'm not sure what people are using for parties these days, but an iPod dock with 3" speakers doesn't rock the house in my book. The time has come to bring back speakers that can make your living room or basement sound like a concert hall. Introducing the "Magna Cum Laude" speaker design! |
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The Podzuma
It's summertime, the weather is nice, and with the recent craze in portable audio devices, what better time to build a DIY portable speaker system? But since we're talking DIY here, there's no need to conform to industry expectations; forget the ultra-miniature, micro-sized speakers and boomboxes that don't play very loud and feel like they cost about three dollars to build. I want a speaker that is portable and that plays loud enough and long enough to be used outdoors at a family reunion, ball practice, or the pool. |
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The Boogieman
Let's be honest-- one of the coolest parts of having a home theater system is the ability to crank it up and to surprise unsuspecting friends or relatives with a few explosions or surround-sound effects. And nothing helps to achieve this "surprise attack" of sound more than a stealthy install that doesn't have large speakers or subwoofers sitting out in the room. With the increasing popularity of on-wall and in-wall speakers, it seems the perfect time to explore the possibilities for creating a homemade stealthy subwoofer. |
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The Colossi
At long last, some information on The Colossi as featured on the cover of the 2006 Parts Express catalog! The size of these speakers is no optical illusion- - they measure over six feet tall and weigh over 200 lbs. each! But I can't take all of the credit for the design; much of the overall guidance came from the Parts Express' Advertising Department and Graphic Designers. They wanted a speaker that was unique, modern, and most importantly, physically impressive. Knowing I only had about two weeks to design and build the speakers, I was a bit daunted by the task at first, but knew that I could pull it off. |
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The Golden Boys
Garage Speakers- seldom discussed, but easily recognized. Anyone who has been involved in audio for a length of time is familiar with the situation: you have an old pair of speakers that are too big to use at home, but that still work well, and you hate to throw them out. By process of elimination, these speakers end up in the garage or a workshop, powered by a wood-cased vintage receiver. But not every speaker will make a good garage speaker- which is why I decided to set forth my own garage speaker design! |
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Cynosure
It appears that the average home theater enthusiast feels somehow pressured to use a low profi le center channel. Whether it is due to paradigms created by marketing giants, infl uenced by signifi cant others, or is a matter of personal taste- I won't guess. Whatever the reason, the desire for thin center channels is real, so this was an important consideration in the planning of this project. |
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The Drake
Whether you have a home theater or a 2-channel system, adding a subwoofer is one of the best ways to add impact, balance, and realism to your listening experience. If you look at commercial subwoofers, you will fi nd a wide variety of size, power, price, and quality-- and it is difficult to select the best one for your system. Worst of all, you may be paying a premium for features or performance that you simply don't need. Building your own subwoofer is one of the easier DIY speaker building projects that you can undertake, and has some of the best potential for savings compared to buying at your local electronics store. |
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The Smithereens
In the simplest sense, the goal of this project was to create a great-sounding compact monitor with the versatility to be used as a stage monitor, with a portable DJ setup, or for any other high-output sound application. |
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Bass Shaker Projects
Bass Shakers work on the concept that low bass is mostly felt and not heard. Feel the earth-shaking bass from your movie or video game soundtracks. |
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Lytle Five
To create a truly high-end surround sound experience, satellite speakers must meet three main requirements. First, the speakers must present a relatively benign impedance load so they can be easily powered by a multi-channel receiver. Second, the speakers must be able to achieve the desired playback level without excess distortion. Finally, the speakers must play low enough that they can blend well with a subwoofer. |
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HiVi Juniors
The design goal for this project was to develop an inexpensive 2-way pair of speakers that didn’t sound like two tin cans for my daughter’s room. These speakers will be placed to the left and right of a TV set, so the drivers need to be shielded. They will be a vented design in the event she grows up to be a metal head like her father. |
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Dr. K's MTM
The primary goal of this project was to try out the new Dayton Reference Series tweeters. These new tweeters had been extensively tested in the lab and on paper, but had not been used in a fully developed, real-world design. So, not only did I hope to see how these tweeters would actually sound in a completed system, but also how they would hold up under use with a low crossover point. |
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D2W
The D2W is an efficient, natural-sounding center channel speaker for less than $100. The design goal was driven by my large living room, a modest budget, and my even more modest woodworking skills. |
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MP-3s
The MP-3's were designed to have very high output, great dynamics, and great looks. Matt succeeded in his goals with these very visually and sonically impressive speakers! |
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Noah's 8s
Stereo home theater speakers have clarity of dialogue and the depth of the audio effects even without a subwoofer, and would be well suited for use as the main speakers in a multi-channel home theater setup. |
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Matt's Project Q
Studio monitors that are flat as possible when it comes to frequency response, and also be listenable from about 1 meter away (nearfield). These speakers are efficient around 90db, and have overall super accurate sound. |
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The Morchellas
The goals of this particular project were not quite as pure-of-heart as last month's design. I did not start with any specifi c goals of performance or characteristics, but instead was curious to try out some new drivers I hadn't used before. With the expanded line of Morel drivers that Parts Express now carries, I was very interested in getting to know their drivers a little more. I went into the project knowing that I wanted to do a simple two-way with a relatively little-used Morel woofer and tweeter. |
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The Firebird
This was designed for a powerful system in the limited space of a hatchback, but without taking up the space for the T-Tops. |
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The Jubilees
The main goal of this design was to create a very good-sounding loudspeaker that is easy-to-build and low in cost. I like to think of it as a “beginners high-end” design— meaning that wherever difficulty could be avoided without significantly compromising the acoustic performance, it was. |
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The Impresario
The "Impresario” mains are a sealed WtmW design measuring 9.0"w x 29.5"h x 11"d. It is intended to be a modified version of the “Dayton III” based design (sort of) with an improved mid frequency response. |
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The NSB's--"No Stinkin' Badges" Projects
The NSB's are 4" drivers that offer excellent full-range performance in a small, fully-shielded package. These drivers are great for many different types of designs, from dipole surround speakers to center channels, and are even perfect for line arrays! Driver features: 3/4" V.C. on paper former, large flat spider, paper cone, rubber surround, and a paper dustcap. The textured PPM cone, rubber surround, large cast frame, and large shielded motor structure give this woofer a sense of quality that is not found on most small drivers. |
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Triune
Curt C and friends designed and built this versatile loudspeaker that is great for left, right, center, and even surround speakers in a home theater system. Careful optimization of the crossover allows the Triune to be used as a horizontal MTM without sharing the problems of most other MTM center channel speakers. If you need a new center channel speaker or are looking to construct a complete matching system from scratch, don't miss this design! |
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Robert & Curt's UniCC
The Unified Center Channel speaker was designed to work with the many Dayton projects that are available on the internet. Using the shielded 6-1/2" woofer, shielded 5-1/4" midrange, and several different tweeters, this center channel will mate well with most Dayton-based left and right speakers. |
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Vince's VHT
Stunning looks and great sound to match! These speakers use Dayton aluminum woofers and a Vifa tweeter in a three-way configuration to produce very clean and clear sound, making for a great home theater experience! Don't miss your chance to check out this project which includes a full crossover design and very useful cabinet construction tips. |
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NickA's Daylum
Designed as standalone speakers for small listening rooms, the Daylum uses a ported 5-1/4" woofer and a silk dome tweeter in a two-way configuration. Inspired by the creativity of motorcyle fabrication, the speakers use aluminum accent strips to compliment the Dayton aluminum woofers. |
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KenP's Nebula
The Nebula is the result of an exploration into the use of series crossovers with the Vifa XT25 tweeter. While this tweeter can sound very good, it is often found in designs that do not allow it live up to its potential. The Nebula is a very refined and detailed speaker that while not cheap, is a very nice reference system in a small package. |
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The DKHTS
A budget home theater system that not only sounds good, but looks good. Uses a buyout 6-1/2" woofer, Peerless tweeter, and Dayton DVC subwoofer. The result is an extremely dynamic and easy-to-listen-to home theater setup. |
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The Kuzimus 77's
An inexpensive rebuild of the overabundant Radio Shack Optimus 77 speakers. A relatively simple crossover and cost-effective Tang Band drivers make this a fun and interesting afternoon project. |
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The Ex-Monsters
The Ex-Monsters are a high-quality two-way monitor design based upon the Neo3PDR tweeter. These speakers excel at offering clear high-frequency performance, but are no slouches in the bass department either. The design should provide useful information to anyone considering using the Neo3PDR. |
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LouC's Topaz
Lou's Topaz speakers are great projects that take advantage of some outstanding bang-for-the-buck drivers. The high-end buyout woofer offers clear midrange and midbass, while an Audax neodymium tweeter offers resolute highs. This project will allow you to construct a fully shielded home theater system that will blow away the off-the-shelf systems! |
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The Pipes
Dave Burke takes Andy G's tapered pipes to the extreme with this fun and "easy-to-build" project. Dave, his daughter, and his son take us through the steps of construction, testing, and finishing of these one-of-a-kind speakers. All who have heard Andy's pipes agree that these offer simplicity and refinement in a stylish package. |
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KenA's UBT's
A very unique design that features a standard two-way design, plus an extra ".5S" woofer to add to bass extension. This design has made tours across the country and all agree it is an excellent speaker that produces great bass in a small package. |
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Kuze3201 Line Array
This project is unique in concept, design, and construction techniques. One would never expect a 2" driver to be capable of such great dynamics. Of course, at 32 drivers per side, its no wonder!! |
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Audax HT Project
This project graciously offered by one of our audiophile customers in Maryland features great photos taken step-by-step and detailed in-depth design and construction commentary. |
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Dayton/Audax Piano Finish MTM
Check out this MTM using Dayton's 6 ½" woofers a stock PE two way crossover and an Audax 1" soft dome tweeter. Beautiful custom matching stands and a piano quality finish make this first time woodworker's project EXCEPTIONAL!!! |
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Matt's Trap Home Theatre System
This systems unique trapeziodal design and construction is one you do not want to miss! Dual cabinet construction gives the designer the thunderous bass from the lower subs and detailed musical reproduction from the upper MMTMM cabinets. |
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Vifa / Seas Two Way
This speaker designer was looking for a medium sized, stand-mounted speaker system, capable of reproducing music as accurately as possible on a limited budget. The builder says "They sound great and very misical, Very balanced if not a little bass shy on rock or dance music. Acoustic music/instruments sound just right. With a sub, they would definitely be full range, both frequency range and dynamic range." |
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Budget Bookshelf
One of this builders objectives was to build a set of exceptionally designed bookshelf speakers without spending any money. This project "fits the bill", by using components he had laying around his shop, plus under 4 dollars in drivers per cabinet he built these great little bookshelf speakers!! The buyout drivers this project uses are sold out, but it still offers helpful insight into speaker assembly on a budget. |
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Wayne's Dayton 2-Way
This project was graciously submitted Wayne J. from Frederick Maryland. We can learn quite a bit from Wayne's experience and in depth knowledge of loudspeaker theory by reading his narratives. This 2-way design using Dayton Loudspeaker drivers can be built for under $100. |
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Dan's SO1: A Solid Beginner Project
A great project for the novice and seasoned professional alike! Dan guides us through building an awesome pair of ported, piano-finish bookshelf speakers. Very detailed and helpful tips throughout help make this project a breeze! |
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Rusty's Dayton Silk Dome Mod Project
A wonderful display of craftsmanship! Rusty takes us through heavily modifying the Dayton Silk Dome (275-070) in an effort to improve an already great tweeter! Click here to see the results! |
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Dave "dB"s db61TL Two-Way Transmission Tower
A simply amazing pair of DIY loudspeakers that can be built for just over $200.00! Dave supplies us with detailed schematics, graphs and commentary on the elegant towers, which employ the venerable Dayton 6.5" Woofer and Dayton Silk Dome Tweeter.
5/30/02: Updated with more pictures and information! |
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Rick's Simple Speaker Stands
Using inexpensive parts available at your local hardware store, you can construct simple yet effective speaker stands that blend comfortably with the decor of your home. An exceptional contribution from Rick M, a frequent visitor of our Tech Talk Board! |
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Wayne J's"Rump Thumper III" Home Theatre Subwoofer
When the time came to replace his Home Theatre woofer, Wayne (aka the Reverend) chose the famed 12" Dayton DVC loudspeaker. Housed in an unfinished enclosure, this thunderous subwoofer fits unobtrusively behind most couches. Great for increasing immersion in movies or better experiencing music! This project was borrowed from Wayne's excellent site, speakerbuilder.net. |
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Wayne J's "Veritas" Three Way TMWW Towers
Equipped with two 10" Dayton Woofers, a Dayton midrange and a RTC2 HiVi Planar Tweeter, the Veritas produces an incredibly open, deep soundstage with exceptional imaging. Originally intended to be a variation of the Lyra, this project soon took on a life of it's own. Another excellent DIY project borrowed from Wayne J.'s site, speakerbuilder.net. |
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The D III
The Dayton III is a 2-way, dual woofer loudspeaker using the Dayton 6-1/2" paper cone woofer and 1-1/8" silk dome tweeter. These drivers have been the subject of a lot of discussion on the Parts Express Tech Talk board because they are among the "best bang for the buck" in low price loudspeaker drivers. This woofer is able to produce exceptionally low bass for a given box size and the tweeter produces clean, clear highs. When you hear these speakers you won't believe that the total cost for drivers and crossover components is under $150/PAIR! |
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Vance Dickason Monitor Pair
Use this guide to build your own pair of high-end stereo monitors, designed by the best in the business! |
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The Dayton Home Theatre Speaker Project
When designing this low-cost, high performance satellite set (less than $215 invested in the electronic parts for all 5 speakers) Wayne J. kept cost in mind, yet ensured that the quality stood up to systems costing at least several times as much! When paired with the subwoofer of your choice, this speaker project is a pleasure to build and listen to! This superb design was borrowed from Wayne J.'s great DIY resource, speakerbuilder.net. |
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"Eros" High-End DIY Tower Project
The Eros has a very smooth, accurate sound with just a hint of warmth. The vented enclosure provides excellent bass extension and the excellent dispersion characteristics of the drivers provide superb imaging. About $500 in parts yields a speaker that can compare very well with expensive high-end towers, yet won't break the bank. This design has been borrowed from Wayne J.'s Loudspeaker DIY homepage, speakerbuilder.net. |
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"Lemniscus" 2-Way Vifa-PT2 Ribbon Project
Scott Hinson, a frequent visitor of the Technical Discussion forum, submitted this great 2-way speaker which uses the Vifa P17WJ-08 woofer and PT2 Ribbon Tweeter. He meticulously auditioned 7 different crossover variations before deciding which was most pleasing. "The ear is an amazing thing." Scott also offers measurements and schematics of an alternative crossover which features higher sensitivity. |
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"Angel Fire 1" Series II-Morel 3-Way Loudspeakers
When creating the AF1s, Scott Anderson set out to no less than reproduce the live rock concert experience in his home (aka the 'Angel Fire Inn')! To accomplish his design goals, Scott starts with the pounding Dayton Series II 15" Woofer, chosen for its unparalleled price/performance ratio. Mid and high frequencies are handled by the superb combination of the Morel MDM 55 midrange and MDT 37 tweeter, two drivers whose sounds blend seamlessly into one another. Though Scott has no expensive test equipment, by ear it is obvious that the AF1s are second only to actually being in the mosh pit! Optimized for Rock n' Roll, these loudspeakers are versatile enough for selections of New Age, Jazz or even Classical music. |
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"V-D" Vifa-Dayton 2-Way Monitors
After building the D3s as his first DIY project, Dave Tenney decided to embark on his own DIY project. Wayne J. of www.speakerbuilder.net had already designed a crossover to use with his chosen drivers: The Vifa P17WJ and the Dayton Silk Dome Tweeter. The result is an impressive pair of DIY monitors delivering superior performance you'd normally have to pay several times their modest price for! |
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"SDSS 1.1" Single Driver Tube Speakers
This project employs the 'bang for the buck' approach, using a single full range driver in an inexpensive, easy to assemble ported cabinet that delivers surprising performance for less than $20/pair! Built by Bryce Larson, it's name means Single Driver Stubby Speaker 1.1. A great project for the beginning or budget-conscious DIY'r, it can be assembled in just 2-1/2 hours using inexpensive parts available at your local hardware store. |
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