Budget Bookshelf Speaker with Bass Radiator
Building a Bookshelf Speaker with Bass Radiator |
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In this article, we'll explore how to build a bookshelf speaker with a bass radiator, capable of delivering impressive sound quality on a budget. This project utilizes a combination of components, including an AudioLab 3-inch mid-bass driver and a Hi-Fi DIY Live 2.5-inch tweeter, paired with a 2-way crossover.
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Components Used |
The following components were used in this project:
- AudioLab 3-inch mid-bass driver
- Hi-Fi DIY Live 2.5-inch tweeter
- 2-way crossover (specifically, the Hi-Fi DIY Live 2-way crossover)
- Electric nail gun
- Wood trimmer or palm router
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Crossover Explanation |
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The crossover used in this project is a 2-way crossover, designed to separate frequencies for the two drivers. The mid-bass driver supports frequencies up to 5kHz, while the tweeter takes over from 3kHz to 20kHz. This separation allows each driver to focus on its respective frequency range, resulting in improved sound quality.
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LCSC.com - Electronic Parts Supplier |
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LCSC.com is the largest electronic parts supplier and was used to source components for this project. They offer a wide range of components, including those needed for crossover construction. With ready-to-ship orders taking only 4 hours and worldwide shipping available, LCSC.com is an excellent resource for DIY enthusiasts.
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Future Plans |
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In the future, plans are to utilize this speaker as part of a 2.1 audio setup by adding a separate subwoofer. This will further enhance the overall sound quality and provide even more impressive bass performance.
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Conclusion |
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Building a bookshelf speaker with a bass radiator is a rewarding DIY project that can deliver impressive sound quality on a budget. By following the steps outlined in this article and utilizing the components listed, you can create your own high-quality speaker system.
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Parts List and Wiring Diagram |
For convenience, the parts list and wiring diagram are provided below:
- AudioLab 3-inch mid-bass driver: [insert link]
- Hi-Fi DIY Live 2.5-inch tweeter: [insert link]
- 2-way crossover (Hi-Fi DIY Live 2-way crossover): [insert link]
- Electric nail gun: [insert link]
- Wood trimmer or palm router: [insert link]
Wiring diagram:
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| Bookshelf Speaker |
| Description: |
A bookshelf speaker is a type of loudspeaker that is designed to be compact and versatile, allowing it to be placed on a bookshelf or other elevated surface. They are typically smaller than floor-standing speakers but larger than desktop speakers. |
| Background: |
The concept of the bookshelf speaker originated in the mid-20th century, when manufacturers began designing speakers that could be placed on a bookshelf or other small surface. These early designs were often based on existing loudspeaker technologies, such as horn-loaded tweeters and woofer drivers. |
| Design: |
Bookshelf speakers typically consist of a compact enclosure containing one or more drivers, a crossover network, and often a bass reflex port. They may be designed with a variety of driver configurations, such as two-way or three-way systems. |
| Characteristics: |
Bookshelf speakers are known for their compact size, making them ideal for small rooms, apartments, or home offices. They often produce a balanced sound with good bass response and clear treble. |
| Budget Bookshelf Speaker with Bass Radiator |
| When it comes to home audio, there are many options available in the market. However, not all of them can provide high-quality sound without breaking the bank. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that still packs a punch, consider bookshelf speakers with bass radiators. |
| What are Bass Radiators? |
| Bass radiators are passive drivers designed to enhance low-frequency response. They work by using the vibrations from a speaker's woofer to produce additional bass output. This results in deeper, more pronounced bass notes without the need for a separate subwoofer. |
| Benefits of Bookshelf Speakers with Bass Radiators |
- Improved low-frequency response: Bass radiators allow bookshelf speakers to produce deeper bass notes, resulting in a more immersive listening experience.
- Space-saving design: With the added bass output from the radiator, there's no need for a separate subwoofer, making it ideal for smaller rooms or those with limited space.
- Affordability: Bookshelf speakers with bass radiators are generally more affordable than larger speakers or home theater systems.
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| Key Features to Look for |
- Driver size and material: A larger driver (around 5-6 inches) made from a stiff, lightweight material will provide better sound quality.
- Crossover design: Look for speakers with a well-designed crossover that ensures smooth transition between the woofer and tweeter.
- Bass radiator design: The size and shape of the bass radiator can affect its performance. A larger radiator may produce more bass, but may also be less efficient.
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| Recommended Bookshelf Speakers with Bass Radiators |
- Edifier R1280T: A budget-friendly option with a 4-inch driver and bass radiator, offering clear sound and decent bass response.
- Q Acoustics 3020i: A highly-regarded speaker with a 5-inch driver and bass radiator, providing detailed sound and impressive low-end extension.
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| Conclusion |
| Bookshelf speakers with bass radiators offer an affordable solution for those seeking high-quality sound without breaking the bank. When choosing a pair, consider key features such as driver size and material, crossover design, and bass radiator design to ensure you find the best option for your needs. |
| Q: What is a budget bookshelf speaker with bass radiator? |
A budget bookshelf speaker with bass radiator is an affordable type of loudspeaker that uses a specialized driver design to enhance low-frequency response, often without the need for a separate subwoofer. |
| Q: How does a bass radiator work? |
A bass radiator is a specialized driver that uses a tuned enclosure and a membrane to amplify low-frequency energy, allowing the speaker to produce deeper bass notes than would be possible with a traditional woofer. |
| Q: What are the benefits of a budget bookshelf speaker with bass radiator? |
The benefits include improved low-frequency response, increased sound pressure level, and enhanced overall musicality, all at an affordable price point. |
| Q: What kind of music is best suited for budget bookshelf speakers with bass radiators? |
These speakers are well-suited for a variety of genres, including rock, pop, jazz, and classical, but may not be ideal for extremely bass-heavy music like hip-hop or electronic dance music. |
| Q: Can budget bookshelf speakers with bass radiators be used in a home theater system? |
Yes, these speakers can be used as part of a home theater system, but may require additional support from a separate subwoofer for optimal performance. |
| Q: What is the typical frequency response of budget bookshelf speakers with bass radiators? |
The typical frequency response is around 60 Hz to 20 kHz, but can vary depending on the specific model and design. |
| Q: How do budget bookshelf speakers with bass radiators compare to traditional bookshelf speakers? |
They offer improved low-frequency response and increased sound pressure level, but may not offer the same level of high-frequency detail as more expensive traditional bookshelf speakers. |
| Q: Can budget bookshelf speakers with bass radiators be used in a desktop computer setup? |
Yes, these speakers are well-suited for use on a desktop or workspace, providing improved sound quality and increased bass response. |
| Q: What is the typical power handling of budget bookshelf speakers with bass radiators? |
The typical power handling is around 20-50 watts per channel, but can vary depending on the specific model and design. |
| Q: Are budget bookshelf speakers with bass radiators available in wireless or Bluetooth configurations? |
Yes, many models are now available with wireless or Bluetooth connectivity options, making it easy to stream music from a smartphone or tablet. |
| Rank |
Pioneers/Companies |
Model |
Year Introduced |
Description |
| 1 |
Edifier |
R1280T |
2014 |
Affordable bookshelf speaker with bass radiator, known for its clear and balanced sound. |
| 2 |
Q Acoustics |
3020i |
2018 |
Budget-friendly bookshelf speaker with a bass radiator, offering detailed and immersive sound. |
| 3 |
ELAC |
Debut 2.0 B6.2 |
2019 |
Award-winning bookshelf speaker with a bass radiator, known for its accurate and engaging sound. |
| 4 |
Klipsch |
R-15M |
2016 |
Compact bookshelf speaker with a bass radiator, offering clear and detailed sound. |
| 5 |
Dali |
Zensor 1 AX |
2019 |
Affordable bookshelf speaker with a bass radiator, known for its detailed and dynamic sound. |
| 6 |
Wharfedale |
Diamond 11.1 |
2018 |
Budget-friendly bookshelf speaker with a bass radiator, offering clear and balanced sound. |
| 7 |
Mission |
LX-2 |
2018 |
Affordable bookshelf speaker with a bass radiator, known for its detailed and engaging sound. |
| 8 |
Polk Audio |
RTi A1 |
2019 |
Budget-friendly bookshelf speaker with a bass radiator, offering clear and balanced sound. |
| 9 |
JBL |
LSR305 |
2014 |
Affordable bookshelf speaker with a bass radiator, known for its accurate and detailed sound. |
| 10 |
KEF |
Q150 |
2017 |
Budget-friendly bookshelf speaker with a bass radiator, offering clear and balanced sound. |
| Specifications |
Details |
| Driver Type |
4.5" Mid-Woofer, 1" Soft Dome Tweeter |
| Crossover Frequency |
2.8 kHz (12 dB/octave) |
| Bass Radiator Type |
4" ABR (Auxiliary Bass Radiator) |
| Frequency Response |
55 Hz - 20 kHz (-3 dB) |
| Sensitivity |
86 dB (1 watt @ 1 meter) |
| Nominal Impedance |
6 ohms |
| Power Handling |
50 watts RMS, 100 watts peak |
| Crossover Components |
High-quality capacitors, air-core inductor |
| Enclosure Type |
Bass-reflex with rear-firing port |
| Enclosure Material |
MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) |
| Grille Type |
Magnetic grille, removable |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) |
13.5" x 8.5" x 10.2" |
| Weight |
15 pounds (6.8 kg) per speaker |
| Bass Radiator Details |
Specifications |
| Type |
Auxiliary Bass Radiator (ABR) |
| Diameter |
4 inches (10.2 cm) |
| Depth |
1.5 inches (3.8 cm) |
| Material |
Paper cone with foam surround |
| Resonance Frequency |
35 Hz |
| Crossover Network Details |
Specifications |
| Type |
2nd-order high-pass, 2nd-order low-pass |
| Crossover Frequency |
2.8 kHz (12 dB/octave) |
| Components |
High-quality capacitors, air-core inductor |
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