Should I paint or carpet my loudspeakers?

[prerunnerv6]

I just finished some party speakers. They use two 12"s and one tweeter. The back is removable so that I get to the inside. They are made with MDF board.

Any recommendations on whether I should paint or carpet them? It will likely be putting handles on them and plastic or metal corners for protection.

Thanks.

 

[electroaudio]

IMO, think its best to carpet them.
MDF is rather fragile and the carpet protects it better then color.
The downside to carpeting is that it is hard to clean.

 

[noodle_snacks]

I'd go with carpet. Use one piece for each box if possible and wrap around the box having a seam at the back and sides/rear

 

[Cal Weldon]

Third vote for carpet.

 

[noodle_snacks]

oh yeah if you want cheap protection, here it doesn't cost much more than buying metal cabinet corners then get some aluminium square section and screw that to the edges of hte box.

 

[Glowbug]

Take 'em to a shop that does Line-X work...have them coated with that stuff

Very durable, won't chip like paint, and the finish is more attractive than just carpet IMO.

 

[nunayafb]

automotive vinyl is Probably the best looking with the least amount of prep, L-angle on the edges and metal corners as mentioned by noodle-snacks, That line-x stuff sounds easy and durable though, could look good too if it goes on smooth.

 

[sdclc126]

PartsExpress has these two products you might be interested in:

http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?&DID=7&Partnumber=260-760

http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?&DID=7&Partnumber=260-761

 

[Andy G]

If you do carpet, remember to use contact or rubber based glue, and work in a really confined space !!!! ;-))

 

[holger honda]

I always have a headache until I get to glue my first couple of carpet covers in the morning....
wonder why?

 

[Valve]

If you, live in a humid area painting your speakers may be a better option as it would seal them properly, MDF swells up easily if left unsealed.
If you don't live in a humid area Carpet is a better option.