What's the thinnest wood you could use on a sub box?? I have a sheet of 4'x8'x3/8" plywood. Would this be too thin? Does anyone have any tips on how to cut w/ a circular saw? Does anyone have any suggestions on the wood I should use? (I am building one to custom fit my trunk, I have most of the measurements down, except for the ones where the thickness of the wood comes into play) THANX

 

use 3/4" mdf only. plywood is not dense enough. Unless you are just using a budget sub and making something just to make noise, but if you are gonna take the time to do it right and want it to sound good, use 3/4" MDF.

mike

 

trust him.....HE KNOWS WHAT HE IS TALKN ABOUT......he has got to be one of the best audio guys on this board.

 

I agree with DJ. If you're going to do it, why waste your time doing it with inferior wood? A sheet of 3/4" MDF will only set you back $25 max. 3/8" ply wood will resonate terribly, and won't hold together worth a damn.

 

Fast replies, the reason I love these boards! THANX guys. It looks as if I'll need two 4x8 sheets. Jim85IROC, how many sheets does it take to make your custom enclosures?? I might have to buy just one for now, and finish the box later. (Lack of funds.....)

 

Using MDF for 2 10" subs that are going to be getting only about 200 watts rms... whats the thinnest wood you can use. Can't you go thinner than 3/4" and not have any adverse effects? Weight is a big issue for me and I want the box to be light... (I want the stereo to sound good, but don't wanna slow the car down in the process.)

 

a mdf box for 2 10's should not weigh more then 30 or 40 lbs. No big weight loss.

The only material I would consider for weight savings is fiberglass.

If you used a thinner wood, you would have to use so much bracing to stop flex, that the box will weigh just as much as a regular mdf one.

 

ya I agree with djsexay, use at least 3/4 mdf for the box. if you want something ligtwieht make a fiberglass box. make sure you use AT LEAST 4 layers though. that is my opinion anyway.

 

well, the number of layers depends on the material you use and the shape of the enclosure.

My sub box is 3 layers of kyntex biaxial (matt , with 12oz cloth stitched to it).

total box thickness is just shy of 1/4".


I think it strong enough, how about you


Mike