Custom Subwoofer Enclosure

This instructable is on my latest custom
Subwoofer enclosure. There are multiple panels and pieces within this build, and in this instructable I highlight the sub enclosure. I do not get into how I cut and laid out, or used tools as much. It is just a general overview of the steps.

Step 1: Cutting Panels and Kerf Cuts

In this step I cut all the pieces and put kerf cuts into the top panel so I could make a rounded corner on the left side of box. This picture shows the cuts and how it should look.

Step 2: Start Assembly of Main Enclosure

In this step I begin to glue and screw all panels together. I use 1 1/4" screws that are pre drilled to prevent splitting. Also use a very large amount of glue. Any excess can be smeared at seams to prevent air leaks. I also used my router to flush trim the front and back to the kerf corner to create the curve. And I used straight templates to create the cutouts for the subwoofer, and what will become a plexiglass window.

Step 3: Begin Trim Panel

I cut out my trim panel and use the same templates to create holes for sub to flush mount and also the window, and an extra cut out on this piece for accent vinyl. The picture shows if finished and sitting in place.

Step 4: Routing Edges

I used a 45 degree bit on router to take off some edge and add interest for when I wrap it with vinyl.

Step 5: Wrap Wth Vinyl

In this step I wrap the trim panel with vinyl to match my interior. This takes time and patience. Don't rush it.

Step 6: Mounting Bolts

Here I used bolts to mount the panel to the box. By using threaded inserts it gave me a place to bolt to. You can see the insert by the corner of the subwoofer

Step 7: Finish Work

This step I used bondo and smoothed out my box. I then primed it and got it ready to finish.

Step 8: Bedliner

I used bedliner to cover this enlosure. This is very easy. Just follow directions on your covering.

Step 9: General Assembly

In this step I use adhesive to put the blue contrast fabric into place. I also install the front panels using the bolts. The subwoofer/speakers/plexiglass is added at this point. I am ready to install into the vehicle.

Step 10: Installing Into Vehicle

Almost there! In this step, I ran and hooked up all LED lighting that will backlight the plexiglass panels. I then install the boxes, and amps and wire everything. It is finally finished. I know that this instructable did not go into detail on the actual making and fabrication. If it did it would be so long it would take a week to read. If anyone wants any tips or tricks on wiring or fabricating the actual boxes or panels feel free to ask me and I can surely make an instructable dedicated towards the specific skill!

Comments

[PedroZ9]

The final result looks so nice!

I wanted to ak about the wiring can you do an instructable about or give a brief explanation how u did it.

Thanks!

[wrightelijah1212]

Sure! Are you asking about the amplifier/Subwoofer wiring, or the entire system? If the entire system it may be beneficial for me to break that into chunks. If just the amplifier/Subwoofer then I can manage that into one post!

[kksjunior]

Wow! It looks cool...!

I've a question.

Does the bass quality change with the shape of the enclosure? I've seen sub-woofers being mounted on cylindrical tubes and in boxes like this one. The box looks more compact than the tube. Is there any difference in the quality of the sound depending upon the enclosure?

[wrightelijah1212]

Hello! Thanks! The shape of the enclosure does not affect the sound quality. If it does it is so minimal it is nonexistent. However, this is a sealed box. With a ported box, the shape will be just a little more important but only with the internal port shape. A lot of sharp corners inside can cause port noise. So try to use more rounded corners internally and the sound will travel more smoothly eliminating port noise. But as a rule, it is not imperitive to use a specific shape as it does not affect the quality! As long as the internal air space is what the sub needs, then it will be just fine.

[kksjunior]

That cleared my doubt! Thanks for taking time to answer my question! :)