How to Build Audio Speakers

Building audio speakers from off-the-shelf parts is a rewarding task that can be done with basic tools and simple materials. The audio speakers sketched out here will be solid and sturdy performers, perfect for putting in a garage, on a deck or in a workshop.

Things You'll Need

• 1 4-by-8-foot sheet of MDF (medium density fiberboard)
• 1 pair of 5-1/4-inch 2-way car speakers
• Speaker wire
• 2 terminal cups
• Wood screws
• Wood glue
• Circular saw
• Jig saw
• Drill
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Cut the front and back panels for your speakers with a circular saw. Make each piece of MDF measure 6 by 8 inches.

2. Cut the top, bottom and side panels for the speakers from MDF. The top and bottom panels should measure 4-1/2 by 5 inches; the two side panels should measure 8 by 5 inches.

3. Screw the top/bottom and side panels together. Overlap the side panels on the top/bottom so that no joint is visible from the side. Connect the panels together with wood glue and wood screws.

4. Cut an opening in the front panel for your speaker. Use the speaker as a template for the size. Center the opening.

5. Cut an opening for the terminal cup, centered on the back panel, 1 inch up from the bottom. Place the terminal cup into the opening. Secure it in place with wood screws.

6. Screw the back panel onto the speaker enclosure. Connect an 8-inch piece of speaker wire to the inside of the terminal cup.

7. Connect the front panel onto the enclosure with wood screws and wood glue.

8. Connect the loose end of the speaker wire to the speaker. Screw the speaker into the opening with wood screws.

Tips & Warnings

• Do each of the steps listed twice to make a pair of speakers.

References

• ARRL Handbook for Radio Amateurs; Reed; 2004