How To Build Your Own Subwoofer

Do you want to know how to build your own subwoofer? There's nothing like the groovy and deep sound of a good subwoofer. But if a subwoofer not properly assembled, the sound produced by the speaker is soon lost and diluted. Here's how to build a subwoofer that will provide that nice sound.

To build your own subwoofer, you will need:

• A 3/4" MDF (medium density fiberboard)
• Glue
• Contact adhesive
• A speaker carpet
• Wood screws
• A saw
• A drill
• A pack of razor blades
• The specs of the speaker that you are building the box for
• Plastic corners

1. Determine the dimensions of the box that is perfect for your subwoofer. This information is provided by the speaker's manufacturer.
2. Calculate and design the box to fit the space you have available. Always keep in mind that the dimensions given in cubic feet are good for the internal air capacity, so in your calculations, subtract the width of the walls.
3. You're free to design the box however you want. The only requirement is that other than the planned air outlets, the box must be sealed.
4. Cut the walls of the box from the 3/4" MDF using a saw. MDF is particularly good for the acoustics of the subwoofer box. You could use hardwood, but for the purposes of a subwoofer box there's nothing as good as MDF wrapped in speaker carpet.
5. Glue and screw the walls together to form the box. Leave the face for the end.
6. Drill the connector placements. You can place them in the back or on one of the sides. These openings must also be sealed. Place and clip the connectors.
7. Cut the speaker's hole on the front panel. If it's a parabolic speaker, make sure you copy the shape perfectly, and allow 1/8" of spare outer space. Screw the speaker to the front panel.
8. Weld the inside cables linking the speaker to the cable connectors. Welding takes more time than simply attaching the cables, but provides for better electricity transmission, thus better sound. Also, use good insulation to avoid sound loss.
9. Place, glue and screw the front of the subwoofer. If everything fits, remove the speaker panel and the connector.
10. Wrap the box using the speaker carpet. Glue it using the contact adhesive, and cut the carpet using the razor blade. You must use a new one almost every time, because the cut must be clean. Apply adhesive to both faces that are going to be glued, and let dry for five minutes before sticking together.
11. To finish the wrapping, make sure every face has only one layer of carpet. To do so, start cuts from the corners going out, and get rid of the excess material.
12. Screw on the plastic corners. With these plastic corners you will prevent the carpet's deterioration and give the subwoofer a professional look. You can also add other accessories, such as handles, feet, grills or protective fabric.

Remember, the sound quality of your subwoofer depends on the volume and the manufacturing quality, so apply your mathematical skills or get some help to sort it out.