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DIY Bookshelf size mains and center channel

6K views 19 replies 4 participants last post by  fschris 
#1 ·
I am ready to purchase parts for a L/C/R configuration.....

I have been looking for anything else that compares to those sweet Zaph SR-71s...

Before I make the purchase does anyone think there is any other option to consider in the same price range and size as the SR71's (6inch driver). .50 - .55cuft range.

I am going to build the enclosures.

fschris
 
#3 ·
Is it possible to compare these ?

ZA5.3t - TMM 2.5-way tower

http://zaphaudio.com/ZA5/

Vs the SR71's


I mean the SR71's get Rave reviews. I would have to build stands anyway so these 2 designs would be the same size foot print on the floor basically.

The ZA5 is a tad cheaper not much.

THey will be for HT/music 60/40.

I already have a MFW-15 sub (and I will build another). I have the low end covered!
 
#4 ·
You're looking at the differences between a mini-monitor design and a 2.5 way tower. The mini-monitor would be great for a mostly music system, or ht where placement of towers is a problem. I think I'd go with the full tower for ht if you have the space. The added mid-bass driver in the 5.3 will add greatly to impact and effects, and make integration with the sub easier.
Just my opinion.

Tom
 
#5 ·
Thanks. I will go with the 5.3t TMM .... I will try to take pics of my build and post them here.

No sure I will have WAF.

But once I build them what can she do....

they should be a lot better than my little take energy 5.1 speaker set up!

I will have to get an amp to power these.
 
#6 ·
I suggest Jeff Bagby's Mandolin:

http://meniscusaudio.com/mandolin-kit-pr-p-1244.html

THey will be for HT/music 60/40.

I already have a MFW-15 sub (and I will build another). I have the low end covered!
What do you consider the "low end"?

Most 6.5" drivers struggle to produce much output around 200hz, and low sensitivity means thermal compression too.

From the 80hz to 200hz region, the demands in HT (and music) are not something a subwoofer can cover.

I would definitely suggest something with more surface area and higher sensitivity than a 6.5" 2-way. Even the zaph TMM you suggested will have its struggles.

I really do suggest a thin-and-tall tower speaker with more surface area. It won't take up any more space than a stand mount, but will be more capable overall. Rather than the ZA5.3 consider the ZA5.5TT or ZA5.5



The higher sensitivity, and double radiating surface area will more adequately cover the 80hz to 300hz region and allow a smoother transition to the subwoofer.
 
#7 ·
I ran across these as well.... http://speakerdesignworks.com/Cinderella.html

interesting... any thoughts.

I see everyone's point here on more surface area!

I like the zaph 5.5 but the cost starts to get high for the BOM. Its not outrageous for what you get but I was trying to keep it around 300 and get the best sound stage for my buck.

My living area is 23 x 15. Not very big at all. Not that I will live here forever but I could not imagine having anything bigger than that for a dedicated HT.
 
#8 ·
I would like that cinderalla design a lot better if the woofer on the bottom was mounted on the side....or if I squared it up. Im not a fan of the sloping triangle look.

anyone know of any plans that has a side facing woofer and then some smaller front facing drivers?
 
#10 ·
Side facing woofers require low crossover points IE 120hz. Low passive crossover points require large, pricy crossover components that also create other issues with fidelity. that also takes away the advantage of having a woofer handle 80hz to 200hz as it will only cover 80hz-~130hz which is pretty pointless.
 
#9 ·
Going by the numbers:

Cinderellas
95mL of displacement
86db sensitivity

Za5.5
88mL of displacement
89db / 2.83v / m


I'd still give an edge to the za5.5s. Displacement is about the same and the sub will really help. The sensitivity difference is big. It's the same as doubling your input power, without heat related compression.

I also expect the za14w08 drivers to have better SQ
 
#13 ·
That was fast about 2 days later I reiceved all the drivers/ x-overs from madisound along with some ports.


Now I have to figure out how to get this cab built. I have never built a tower before.

I wish the PDF was a bit more detailed for this novice... ehh should not be too hard to figure out. just need to sit down with some graph paper.
 
#15 ·
Rather than following the PDF for the box, I recommend a mass loaded transmission line. I would be glad to help you out in this regard when I get home today.
 
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