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Automotive finish for subs?

3877 Views 13 Replies 7 Participants Last post by  polytechshriram
I've been looking at cars recently, and for some reason this afternoon I thought of an old project of someone's on the forums (years ago) that was going to involve finishing parts of the enclosure with automotive paint. I don't think the project ever did finish, but it got me thinking that you could have some great potential for awesome looking enclosures... should be pretty durable too. Does anyone know of a project that did use some kind of auto paint/clearcoat? Is it even possible or a good idea?
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Owen, I saw pics of a sub that was done in a light blue color, I can't remeber where. It looked good.
Jay, you're right it can give too high a bling factor if done wrong. But even doing say just 2 panels, or maybe the baffle or something could add some great visuals. Maybe a nice pearl white to go with a light maple veneer, or a deep metallic red to match some dark rosewood or something. I guess this could also be an alternative to the conventional piano gloss black.

Meh, just another idea kickin' around my head.
Hey Owen, my sub panels and the flares for the port are painted with two stage paint (base coat, clear coat).
You have to use built up primer the gallon its about $75 or a quart for $40 and $20 for the hardener, the paint about $40 for a quart and like $40 for the clear, you can buy a gun for around $75 new or one used for less, a body shop should charge about $ 100 to paint couple of panels that's if they have some paint of the color you want, if they have to buy the paint its going to be a lot more:bigsmile:
We don't have a paint boot and I paint most of the pieces the I built for the cars (wood or fiberglass)

Sink Automotive design Table Plastic


Audio equipment


Table Automotive exterior Bumper Auto part Coffee table


Toilet seat Circle Table


Toilet Toilet seat Metal Plumbing fixture Tableware


Automotive wheel system Rim Wheel


Audio equipment Electronics Loudspeaker Technology Electronic device


Small appliance Cookware and bakeware Crock Tableware
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that looks nice.
If your painting straight on to mdf...I have heard that using a strong body filler like rage gold is a good way to fill in any imperfections (mdf is smooth but porus) just spread it on thin and sand most of it off...like you do with a classic car restoration...and that will give you a better surface for the paint to adhere to.
Rodny, I can't believe I forgot about your IB!! It's a perfect example of a fantastic result too, I remember when you finished it and how awesome it integrated into your setup. I'd say when done right, it would definitely be worth the extra effort, especially if you're looking to do something a little unique.

ps - I love that pic with the sun reflecting
The IB is dead!!!:bigsmile:


SLLT::hsd:
What is that blue light around the subs? Those pieces look awesome too btw.
What is that blue light around the subs? Those pieces look awesome too btw.

Thanks!!

That's plexiglass with a neon blue rope.
Rodny, I've probably seen it and just didn't make the connection, but did you make a thread for your new SLLT? I've gotta check out whatever it is that swayed you away from using that beautiful IB.
Rodny, I've probably seen it and just didn't make the connection, but did you make a thread for your new SLLT? I've gotta check out whatever it is that swayed you away from using that beautiful IB.

I'm using the panels all I did was convert the IB to SLLT.

http://www.hometheatershack.com/forums/soundsplinter/3871-ib-makeover.html
Aaaaahhh, I see what you did! Looks like you managed to keep everything mostly intact, that's pretty impressive. I'll read through the thread when I have some more time, it's another good one that I missed somehow. I'm glad you were at least able to keep the beautiful baffles!
When it comes to automotive finishes for subwoofers, options include paint, vinyl wrap, hydro dipping, and custom fiberglass enclosures. Each offers unique aesthetics and durability. Consider factors like desired appearance, budget, and level of customization to choose the best automotive finish for your subs.
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