Hey guys, I'm thinking about building a sealed box for a single 12" sub. Haven't quite decided what kind yet. Have a few ?s though.

1st ?: If I use MDF for the box, does the thickness really matter that much? I really don't want to use 3/4" again. The box I currently have weighs 80+lbs by itself without the 10"s in it and amp+cap mounted to it.

2nd ?: If I was to put a plexi window on one side, how would this affect the sound?

3rd ?: If I didn't do the window, does filling the box do anything for the sub? If so, what should I use?

Still in the planning phase here. Took some measurements today, and I looks like everything will go according to plan. Just need to make a commitment on the box and materials.

Thanks for any feedback!
drew

 

1. Thickness matters. If you want a lighter box, use baltic birch plywood. As long as the resonant frequency of the box is out of the passband where the driver is operating, everything will sound fine.
2. Maybe. Thin plexi that flexes and vibrates - yes. Thick plexi - no.
3. With pillow stuffing? Pillow stuffing slows the rear waves and makes the box seem about 10% larger. This may or may not help depending on your design. Use up to 1.5 pounds per cubic foot.

-Robert

 

OR if you can still find UltraLight, simliar to MDF but about 1/4 the weight. Also about 4X the amount $$ wise.

If using Plexi make sure its sealed, as alot people will mount the plexi directly to the MDF. Thus leaving the possiblity for gaps..Rubber foam (Home Depot) can be used to sel all the edges. Try for the adhesive backed as it will be Alot easier to keep lined up while mounting the plexi.

--Don

 

hey don how much $ is the ultralight for a 4x8 sheet? and to verify... there is no effect on performance of subs by putting plexi in front of them in a sealed box right?

 

i don't think a plexiglass will affect the performance of subs as long as they don't flex under pressure.