I've decided to build myself a set of speakers for a 2.0 stereo setup. I have most of the necessary tools, may need to buy some new bits and build a jig or two. I have been woodworking for about 30 years now.
So, I've been searching the internet for good quality "Audiophile" speaker designs/plans and most of what I find is mainly for home theater use. I really don't need or want another set of tower speakers sitting beside my Def-Techs, just something more like an "old school" stereo speaker that kicks some serious butt. Does anyone have any suggestions or ideas where to look for something like that, or do I have to build a pair of "Statements".
Like I said, I just want to build 2 speakers with quality drivers & crossovers that are known to work (I no absolutly nothing about crossover building, but I can solder), hopefully a TMW setup.
I figure I would go up to $500.00 (give or take) budget for materials & drivers.
Thanks.
I agree with BSA's suggestion. I've heard these speakers while they were being developed, and I recommend them over any 3-way DIY design I've known. The designers are very experienced and this design has been tested. You've probably never heard such smooth sounding deep bass from any 2-way or MTM design as the ER18 MTMs have. If you build them, I predict that you will retire or sell your Def-Techs.
I think the taller narrower tower type speakers have advantages over the older 3-way designs. Good 3-ways are expensive and require a lot of compromises in the crossover design. Narrow towers may provide better imaging than speakers with wider cabinets.
With your woodworking experience, these cabinets should not be difficult. The hardest part may be counter sinking the drivers, and, of course, the finish. If you need any help with building the crossovers, you are less than 2 hours away from me in Maryland. I can help.
If you absolutely must have a 3-way, look at this design, the
Revised MBOW1 3-way. Dennis Murphy also designed them. They look like this
.