Let's discuss a super-cheap PC speaker system

[Jim85IROC]

I'm running $20 radio shack computer speakers, and I'd like to upgrade. I've been tossing around some ideas.

At first I thought about a super-cheap 2-way system with the Goldwood GT-302 tweeter and GW-4028/S woofer, along with a cheap 6.5" or 8" DVC sub from Goodwood or Dayton.

Another choice is using a pair of Tang Band W3-871S full-range drivers with the same sub configuration. The TB wouldn't require any crossover except for a simple high-pass filter, and would cost about the same as the 2-way setup mentioned above. I figured for what the TB drivers cost, I can even fool around with some ridiculously large TL enclosure to get some room shaking bass at 20hz... or not.

Anyway... what are some other super-cheap mini-speaker projects that you guys have done that I can get ideas from?

One more question... how do I amp this very inexpensively too? Are there any cheap 2 channel amps for something like this? I'd really like to keep the amp under $50.

[Bose(o)]

amp

Click on projects and it's on the top.

Anyway, you've got the right idea for now....KISS, use the TB and definintly use active XOs, play with EQ if you want, though, I doubt you'll need it.

[Timn8ter]

I'm using the Elf1.5 for my PC speakers. They're great and cost me about $50 to build. I like the design of John K's Tangband which looks great. They mate easily with an 8" sub. Check the Apex Jr website for a good article on building a small sub with their 25W sub amp.

[Timn8ter]

The TB wouldn't require any crossover except for a simple high-pass filter

My experience is that the TBs natural roll off is sufficient without electronics if you cross your sub at 100Hz.

[SQ Kid]

hey, nice to see another Thirdgen.org member around here (i'm CAMp3RO). what i've been recommended is a tangband setup, and at around $15 a driver, you really cant go wrong. ordered up a set for myself yesturday. for a couple of designs that get commonly used, check out http://home.new.rr.com/zaph/audio/audio-speaker11.html

[Dave Jones]

What's the difference between the W3-871 and W3-879? Parts Express seems to carry only the latter.

[Timn8ter]

Originally posted by Dave Jones
What's the difference between the W3-871 and W3-879? Parts Express seems to carry only the latter.

The W3-871 has a treated cone resulting in better high frequency response. I've used both and can testify to the 871s much better performance.

[kec]

I just finished my 871s. These sound very nice and have lived up to the hype that I've read about. These will probably be delegated for computer use as I'm planning on building a small line array system with the 871s (4 per cabinet).

Up until 12/31/03 these were on sale at neura-acoustic.ca for a whopping $8.25 (normally $10). Needless to say I got 10 + 6 I already had. Great deal!




-kec

[Timn8ter]

Very nice. Is that hardwood for the front baffle? Ported or sealed? Did you use any electronics?

[Dave Jones]

Originally posted by Timn8ter

The W3-871 has a treated cone resulting in better high frequency response. I've used both and can testify to the 871s much better performance.

So, who sells the 871s?