MDF thickness

[Pano]

You can do it with a jigsaw, just practice a bit first.
The trick with jigsaw cutting is to forget the circle, just watch the pencil line. Be one with the line, man. Don't think about the goal (the hole) just the line.

If you make a few practice cuts and find that they are "good enough" there you are! The router does make a very nice hole, tho....

 

[CLS]

Yes, jigsaw is just fine. I made all my baffle cuts with jigsaw. The holes aren't perfect but good enough.

 

[Mr Evil]

...The trick with jigsaw cutting is to forget the circle, just watch the pencil line...

You can make circle cutting jigs for jigsaws too, for more perfect holes with less effort...

 

[MJL21193]

Like any saw, a jigsaw will cut better holes (cleaner, straighter) with a better quality blade - don't cheap out.
Use a stiff, sharp blade and go slow, allowing the tool to do the work without jamming up.

 

[guitvinny]

Although quite expensive the Australian made Triton router is reliable and comes with a circle cutting guide.

+1, very nice kit, it was the first time that I work with a router (past 2 months) and I'm very satisfied with the machine. If you take care, it's going to tough you a long run...btw the cost isn't too bad, I manage to get the kit for ~230$CAN after taxes.

A fun way to learn how to use your router : read the manual, check some youtube videos and practice on scrap piece.

 

[Pano]

I never had any luck with jigsaws and jigs. The blade like to wonder all over the place. Maybe I need better blades!

 

[Moondog55]

I had that problem, which is why I bought the router, then I found out you need really thin blades to cut circles with.

~230$CAN after taxes

Wow! that's much less than the price here, was it on sale??

 

[guitvinny]

I just check back : 224,60$ with taxes, regular price, I`m not sure if it`s the same model as yours, but here`s the link :

Triton Rona

(btw .. I got no affiliation with Rona)

 

[Moondog55]

No, I have this one,

http://www.triton.com.au/product.php?id=28

Currently it is AUD$310- here, but all prices are fluctuating wildly at the moment as makers try and keep sale flowing

 

[MJL21193]

Look the same to me...

 

[Moondog55]

I think you are right, I didn't get the guide kit but the circle guide included instead.

i'd like the bigger one as well, but need a work-shed first,

 

[prickears]

I made my own bench from left over 18mm mdf from my first project, it's simply a circular saw attatched to a piece of mdf for cutting sraight panels, (!) (ooppss, mind those fingers!).

I have a jigsaw and router for cutting round holes for drivers, but i free hand pencil lines with those, and i have no problems recessing drivers free hand, just take your time! Measure twice, cut once.
Little by little, bit by bit.

As for thickness of material, for a project such as yours, generally 12mm is ample, for medium size projects 18mm will do fine for most of these with sufficient bracing, and larger projects will require at least 25mm or more. For sonic perfection, consider concrete or even granite!

The world really is your oyster in the world of diy!

(p.s don't let the diy bugs bite!)