Introduction: Create a Small Laser Cut Amplifier (enclosure)

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Need a mini amplifier?  Have an old pair of wired speakers?  This instructable is for you!
I tend to prefer wired speakers over bluetooth but have minimal space for my old large amplifier.  I wanted something small and cute to use with my TV and set of desktop speakers.  I also wanted a system that had a stereo-mini port and could be plugged directly into my iPhone, android or iPad to play music.  I ended up ordering a small amplifier on amazon.com and creating the case using 1/8" plywood on the laser cutter.  Made at the TechshopSF.

Step 1: The Amplifier.

I chose the LP-2020A+ Lepai Tripath Class-T Hi-Fi Audio Mini Amplifier with Power Supply (Black), available for about $20-25 on amazon.com and other sites.

Here are the specifications for you audiophiles:

Size: 110mm (D) X 140mm (W) X 40mm (H)
P.M.P.O : 2 x 180W
R.M.S : 2 x 20W
Input power : DC10~14.4V≧3A
Input sensitivity : 200mv
Frequency response : 20Hz - 20kHz
Speaker impedance : 4 - 8ohm
Minimum THD : <0.4%
Signal noise / ratio : >80db
RCA ans stereo mini input 

Step 2: The Enclosure.

I designed this enclosure using a "living hinge" because I think it draws people's attention and looks good.  Laser files attached (.ai and .pdf).  You should use 1/8" plywood that is at least 13" x 14".

You will notice that the amp enclosure has a little shelf on the inside which is what holds the amplifier in place.  The enclosure is assembled around the amplifier which is simply sandwiched in there.

I used a few dabs of glue at the finger joints and along the inside edge of the living hinge to hold the enclosure together.  For something this small, I usually just use some scotch tape to hold everything together while the glue is drying (at least 1 hour). I suppose you could use clamps but it seems like overkill.  My favorite wood glue is titebond II.

Attachments

Step 3: Finish.

Finally, I gave the wood a light sanding and oiled with Watco oil.  Done! 

Thanks to the TechshopSF and also to user fasaxc for design inspiration.
Here is a link to his awesome Arduino radio enclosure.
https://www.instructables.com/id/Laser-cut-Arduino-radio-enclosure/