How to Build an MDF Speaker Box

A circular saw is one of the tools you'll use to make an MDF speaker box.

When constructing speaker boxes or enclosures, one important consideration is the choice of the material used in the box's construction. MDF (medium-density fiberboard) is an excellent material for speaker boxes. It's strong and non-resonant, so the box will hold its shape and the sound of the speaker will not be colored by vibrations of the box. A simple box design will yield good results.

Things You'll Need

• 4-foot by 4-foot sheet of 1/2-inch medium density fiberboard
• Circular saw
• Tape measure
• Wood screws
• Screwdriver
• Jig saw
• Drill
• 6-1/2 inch speaker
• Speaker wire

Instructions

1. Measure and cut two 10-inch by 12-inch panels from the sheet of MDF.

2. Measure and cut two 6-inch by 11-inch panels from the sheet of MDF.

3. Measure and cut two 6-inch by 10-inch panels from the sheet of MDF.

4. Assemble the 6-inch by 11-inch panels and the 6-inch by 10-inch panels together to form a hollow box that's open on two parallel sides. The ends of the 6-inch by 10-inch panels should overlap the edges of the other two panels, so that the dimensions around the perimeter of the box are 10-inches by 12-inches. Screw the panels together with wood screws.

5. Cut an opening in one of the remaining panels for the speaker with a jig saw. Drill a hole in the center of the other remaining panel.

6. Place the panels onto the box and attach with wood screws. Insert a piece of speaker wire into the box through the hole on the back panel. Pull the wire out the speaker opening, attach the speaker wire to the speaker terminals, and then place the speaker into the opening. Attach with wood screws placed through the speaker mounting ring holes.

References

• "Car Stereo Cookbook"; Mark Rumreich; 2005
• "Car Stereo Speaker Projects, Illustrated"; Daniel L. Ferguson; 2000