Icebox Jukebox

This is part one of a two part instructable where an old stereo console and an old icebox are blended into what I am a calling an Icebox Jukebox.

Step 1: Things You'll Need.

Materials

• Old icebox. I used a reproduction White Clad icebox.
• Old stereo console.
• Pair of desktop speakers with a built in amplifier.
• Audio streaming device. I used a Google Chromecast Audio.
• Power strip
• C14 Female Outlet
• 1/8" plywood
• 1/2" plywood
• Brads
• Staples
• Screws

Tools

• Screwdrivers
• Table saw
• Jig saw
• Stapler
• Brad nailer and air compressor.
• Soldering Iron and solder.

Step 2: Disassemble Your Speakers

1. Remove the amplifier/components from the speaker cabinet.

Step 3: Cut Down Your Speaker Cabinets

1. Measure the inside of the speaker cabinet to see how much you can cut it down without cutting into speakers.
2. Set your table saw fence to your measurement and make a cut on all four sides.

Step 4: Make New Back for Speaker Cabinet

1. Measure the dimensions of the back of the speaker cabinet.
2. Set the fence of the table saw to each dimension and cut the 1/8" plywood to size.
3. Fasten the back to the cabinet with a brad nailer.

Step 5: Cut Out Squares for Speakers

1. Measure a square large enough on the side of the icebox to allow the speakers to project without obstruction.
2. Drill pilot hole for your jigsaw.
3. Use a jigsaw to cut out the square.

Step 6: Mount Speakers on a Shelf

1. Measure the inside width of the icebox.
2. Set the table saw fence to that measurement and cut the 1/2" plywood to size.
3. Angle the speakers on the shelf so they point 45° between the side and front of the icebox.
4. Fasten the bottom of the speakers to the shelf with the brad nailer.

Step 7: Install Sound Channels

1. Measure the from the side of the speaker cabinet to the front of your square cutout.
2. Set your table saw to the dimensions and cut the 1/8" plywood.
3. Fasten the channel wall to the side of the speaker cabinet and the side of the icebox.
4. Repeat 1-3 to install a floor for the channel.

Note: This will help the speakers to project instead of the sound bouncing around inside the icebox.

Step 8: Resize the Speaker Grills

1. Carefully remove the speaker grills from the stereo console
2. Remove the grill material from the board. If you have trouble enlist the help of a 2 year old with a screwdriver.
3. Measure 1" in from each side of the furniture cabinet.
4. Set table saw fence to these dimensions and cut the board down to size.

Step 9: Reattach Material to Board

1. Stretch material across the board and staple in place.
2. Fasten the re-sized grills to the side of the icebox with a brad nailer.

Step 10: Add a Power Port

1. Cut a square hole in the bottom of the icebox to fit the C14 power port.
2. Install a surge protector inside the icebox.
3. Cut the surge protector cord and strip back the insulation.
4. Feed the cord through the hole and solder the leads of the power cord to the C14 port.
5. Install the port with two screws.

Note: The floor of my icebox is 4" off the ground. Installing the port on the bottom allowed me to push the icebox flush against the wall without putting strain on the port or the power cable.

Step 11: Install Your Amplifier

1. Depending on the speakers you used this step may look different. In short fasten your amp/components so that you can reconnect the wires. Velcro works great!
2. Plug in the power and signal cables for your speakers and audio streaming device.
3. Configure your audio streaming device.

Step 12: Enjoy Your New Icebox Jukebox

1. Plug in your ice box.
2. Stream your favorite music.

Stay tuned for the second part of this hack. Installing the old radio from the old console.