Large aluminium knobs, a source?

[homer09]

Anyone know where i can source decent quality large (at least 2"/5cm diameter) aluminium knobs? I live in canada. I need two.

oh and a smaller matching one would be nice also (for source selection).

 

[grimberg]

Have you checked Apex Jr.?

http://www.apexjr.com/knobs.htm

 

[homer09]

Nope, hadnt found them. But by aluminium, i guess i meant aluminium colour. Black is no go for me. Also, those are the right diameter, but way too tall, i prefer a fat short knob, if you know what i mean?

 

[Peter Daniel]

If you have access to drill press and hand drill or grinder with sanding disk attachment, you can make any shape knob by yourself: http://www.diyaudio.com/forums/showthread.php?postid=388012#post388012

 

[homer09]

Wow what a beautiful knob. Thats EXACTLY the kinda look i was aiming for. But since i dont have your experience or skill, i would probably not go for the bevel look, just a simple flat polished knob, a little easier and less elbow greese.

Thanks for the DIY solution Peter! Just a quick question, if i polish the knob with sand paper until i like the finish, since it will be handled frequently, will the finish deteriorate with time? What do you recommend to keep it looking polished and new?

Also, how much would a solid pipe of aluminium like that cost?

 

[TaskMaster]

McCaster Carr caries some aluminum knobs and raw aluminuim stock... and a ton of other good stuff too!

 

[VT67]

Hi homer09

Take a look at these:
http://www.acoustic-dimension.com/misc/knobs.htm
Not cheap but affordable.

Cheers

 

[Peter Daniel]

Thanks for the DIY solution Peter! Just a quick question, if i polish the knob with sand paper until i like the finish, since it will be handled frequently, will the finish deteriorate with time? What do you recommend to keep it looking polished and new?

Also, how much would a solid pipe of aluminium like that cost?

A piece for two knobs might cost you $5-8. Try MetalSupermarkets or Access Metals. They will cut it for the length you need, as otherwise it's not safe to cut small piece like that without bandsaw.

I started with 50 grid disk and ended up at 180. After that, using Scotch Brite pads ads final finish. Basically you don't really need to protect polished aluminum, as it's quite resistant to elements.

But you can spray it with thin layer of clearcoat (used for aluminum car wheels) or dip in alodine.

 

[Septimus]

Knobs...

They have some nice ones. My friend has the CT-3, the largest and it makes his stepped attenuator feel like butter, must with a quarter pound! plus they come in different sizes.

DIY cable.com

 

[thomas997]

If you look for some round aluminum rods on ebay a lot of the sellers will cut the rod into required lengths, usually for free, or a small charge (5-10$).

Then all you need is a drill press and to sand it to your desired look.

But this is more if you are going to make a bunch of them, as the rod lengths are fairly long.

 

[homer09]

A piece for two knobs might cost you $5-8. Try MetalSupermarkets or Access Metals. They will cut it for the length you need, as otherwise it's not safe to cut small piece like that without bandsaw.

What about a hand saw im sure its safe....

thanks for the sources, will use them if i cant source in person in montreal.

 

[Peter Daniel]

What lengths do you need? I have a piece 2" dia and 3" long. If it's enough, I can cut it for you and sent at a cost.

 

[pixpop]

DIY Knob

Peter,

this is probably a stupid question.. but how do you find the center of the piece after you cut it from the bar stock? Do you just measure with a ruler, or is there a more accurate method?