Create a Small Laser Cut Amplifier (enclosure)

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.

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/

Comments

[fasaxc]

Nice!

[junits15]

Looks good!
I have one of those lepai amps, they're a good deal for what they cost, though the audio quality can be sub par.

[grammers]

If you need really really good quality you will have to pay more. We use it for our living room sound system and love it.

[junits15]

true, for what it costs though it can't be beat!

[2ringer6]

Are the cut out notches 1/8 deep by 14 wide? if so what size is the diagram so I can make the ESP file reflect this. Looks like the file has been compress to fit on a single page.
Thanks
Wayne

[grammers]

When I open the .eps file in illustrator, the artboard size is: 12.44" (width) by 13.36" (height).

[grammers]

I'm not sure I understand your question but i will try to help. What program are you using to open the files? Adobe illustrator and Corel draw should open any of these without changes to the size.

[andrea biffi]

beautiful!

[grammers]

Thanks!

[2ringer6]

Can you create the file in EPS or CDR(CoreDraw) format?
[e-mail]

[grammers]

Yep, EPS file is now up. Enjoy.

[non-instructed]

this is fantastic! okay, obviously i am biased as i am the beneficiary of this particular piece of amazing. i use this radio situation everyday and it is durable and wonderful and simple and gorgeous. i love bragging to all our guests that i know who made it.