Construction techniques

[Dbartol1]

Hello, I have been thinking of taking MDF, cutting the sheets down into the shape of a "C" and sandwiching (stacking) them together using glue and high pressure. This way I can create something with more curves to it. I have seen pictures of this done by others and there seems to be a trend of leaving the face open and adding a baffle. Does anyone know why I should or shouldn't cut my MDF into the shape of a "D" rather then a "C" and eliminate the need to add the baffle. I could just cut my openings out of the face of the "D" shaped enclosure.

Hope this makes sense. Thanks

 

[richie00boy]

No reason why not and this is what I have seen as being more common than a C shape. Are you planning to paint or veneer the result?

 

[Dbartol1]

I am not sure how I will finish it yet but I dont know if painting it will give me the look I want. I'd love a high gloss finish but I'm not sure I can achieve that.

 

[Cal Weldon]

There's also the option of stacking the pieces horizontally. Gives you more options for cabinet shape.

 

[Dbartol1]

Thats awesome Cal, but how do you measure the volume of such an unconventional shape?

 

[Cal Weldon]

Extrapolation and interpolation. IOW: Estimating 🙂

You could also use sand to confirm the volume.

 

[Dbartol1]

Sand! I feel dumb for not coming up with that. Internet searches only mention water displacement. Not a good option. Thanks.

 

[Cal Weldon]

Some have used rice.

 

[Dbartol1]

Cal,
Whats the finish on those speakers? And do u find that the undulations of the interior walls effect the sound positively or negatively. Nice looking subs btw.

 

[Cal Weldon]

Finish: Accents by Rust-Oleum | Stone Creations - Black Granite | Home Depot Canada

Undulations are there to help with standing waves.

Those subs are actually 15" Selenium Coaxials. They are for party time only. I have them on the floor so if you are close to them your ears don't start bleeding. The subs are off to the right.

 

[Mr Evil]

...Does anyone know why I should or shouldn't cut my MDF into the shape of a "D" rather then a "C" and eliminate the need to add the baffle. I could just cut my openings out of the face of the "D" shaped enclosure...

I can think of one reason: You will have to drill into the edge of the MDF to mount the driver, which carries a risk of splitting it.

 

[Cal Weldon]

That can be addressed if using something like threaded inserts rather than screws.