Subwoofers are excellent for giving you an extra bass boost. Whether that is inside your car, in your home’s surround sound system, or part of your music studio set-up.
If you aren’t sure whether a subwoofer is right for you, or if you are looking to save a little cash, then learn here how to make a subwoofer box out of simple household and DIY materials.
Housing existing subwoofers inside a box or case will greatly improve the speaker’s performance and keep the unit from external damage. This is a guide on how you can make your own subwoofer box.
Step One: Figure Out Measurements
The key to making a subwoofer box that is right for you is working out the right size that you want it to be. Because there are different ways of using subwoofers, it is important to think about the intended location.
Make sure that you carefully measure the spot where you want your subwoofer to go before purchasing materials.
It is also crucial to carefully measure your subwoofer so that you are getting the best fit possible. This allows you to get the right size and quantity of materials for this DIY project.
Step Two: Sketch A Design
The next step is to figure out what kind of shape you want your subwoofer box to be.
Depending on the intended use for it, and the space that you have available, it is worth considering the different types of subwoofer box designs.
These include bass reflex enclosures, which are ideal for efficient and maximum output. On the other hand, they are more challenging to build and require more space than other enclosures.
Simple sealed enclosures are easier to build and a little smaller in general. They create excellent low-frequency responses and are good for power handling.
An infinite battle mounting board is ideal if you want to house multiple subwoofers with fewer materials.
They can be used in the trunk of your car because they don’t take as much space as other options.
Other styles of enclosures include isobaric and band pass. Consider the pros and cons of each design, and decide what kind of output you want to achieve.
It is recommended that you spend more time comparing your options and sketching a rough design based on your subwoofer requirements.
Step Three: Gather Materials
Once you have a rough idea of the shape and size of materials you will need, it is time to source them.
You will need MDF chipboard that is around ¾”, a table saw unless you want to ask your DIY store to cut it to size, a drill, a pencil, measuring tape, a straight-edged ruler, a jig saw, and metal screws ranging from ½” to 1 ¾”.
You will also need liquid nails or any wood glue, caulk, a speaker terminal cup, some type of compass or circle template, and a reliable box cutter.
Step Four: Mark Edges And The Center
Now it’s time to measure your edges on the chipboard. Find the piece that you will drill through and aim to mark around ¾” from the edge.
This is recommended as a way of centering all of your screws when the time comes to put everything together.
Before you begin cutting into everything, it is also recommended that you mark from corner to corner and mark the center of your chipboard.
Using your compass, you can measure out the diameter of your subwoofer and adjust to leave a slight lip for it to hang over for securing everything. Draw a circle in the center to fit your subwoofer comfortably on the top piece.
Step Five: Cut Holes
The next step is to make straight holes using your drill. These should be made in the marked edges of the chipboard, with a drill bit smaller than the screws. The holes made will act as pilot holes for your screws.
Step Six: Cut The Circle
You will then need to carefully cut the circle in the center of your chipboard. This can be pretty challenging, and it is worth allowing a little extra time for this step.
You can use the jig saw to cut a hole large enough to fit your drill in, or drill a hole for your saw blade to get into. Then, you can start cutting away at the remaining chipboard in the circle.
Step Seven: Assemble
The next step is to connect each side of the box for your subwoofer. This can be done using the drill and nails, or any wood glue. Alternatively, you can connect the sides and apply caulk into the edges for an airtight seal.
As long as you allow plenty of time for the adhesive to fully dry, there should be no issues during this process. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions in terms of setting time and usage.
Step Eight: Finishing Touches
Some people choose to leave their subwoofer box in this way, but you can create a seamless look by adding carpet to the exterior.
There are a range of carpet materials that are suitable for vehicles, which are ideal for covering your subwoofer box.
Using any adhesive agent, cover the box and carefully apply the carpet to the exterior.
Once everything has set, you can use a box cutter to cut the material away from any of the holes that were covered in the process.
Step Nine: Test And Enjoy
Then, you can connect the subwoofer using the appropriate wires for your speaker. Once you have done that, it is time to test out your new sound system and enjoy!
Summary
Learning how to make a subwoofer box can be time-consuming at first, but it is definitely worth the extra effort that is needed. You will be left with a custom container that will house your subwoofer comfortably and sound fantastic!
Consider the different designs of subwoofer boxes available, and make sure you are measuring the intended area before purchasing materials.