In need of driver/x-over recommendations for a mini monitor

[mike93lx]

I'm looking to build a small set of speakers. The only real requirements are:
1) low cost (under $100 for all components, not including enclosures would be great)
2) mid has to have a cutout of 4" or smaller
3) 8 ohm impedance

MTM is possible, but MT is preferred due to size. Sealed or ported, doesn't matter. power will be 25wrms x 2 and these will be used as computer speakers with a 6.5-8" subwoofer.

I'm not expecting anything special here. I am just looking to inprove on my exisitng computer speaker setup.

Any recommendations?

[Bill Schneider]

I'm about to build a pair of Zaph's Bargain Mini speakers - 4" woofer, and the tiny Aura NT1 tweeter. Driver costs are very low, and crossover parts aren't expensive either.

Construction and parts are well documented here:

http://www.zaphaudio.com/ZBM4.html

[mike93lx]

Bill - thanks for the suggestion. I noticed that when I was searching last night. I think that the issues in mounting the woofer would prove to be too difficult in the cabinet that I am designing and I won't be able to use a rear mount tweeter.

I should also mention that I would prefer a silk dome tweeter and any kind of integrated grill on the tweeter would be fantastic.

I know this is a tall order, but I have seen some incredible designs on this forum and some ingenious members.

thanks!

[Jed]

http://www.rjbaudio.com/Microbe/microbe.html

[mike93lx]

jed- thanks for that link. it looks like that might be the ticket.

any other designs to look at?

[Jed]

For the $100 range the Microbe is tough to beat. Though it's probably more like $135ish with crossover. You can see my review on his page. It's a very well documented design.

[Turn2]

The Microbe is a great design. This might work as well or better with a low power amp:

Lou C's Amethyst

[mike93lx]

thanks. the Amethyst looks like a great design, but the 4 ohm impedance won't work with the amp that I plan to use. 6 ohm is probably about as low as I could go.

[Ray_D]

Zaph Mini's are great for $100

I have built the Modula MT, Nat P's and RS225/RS150/RS28A three ways with Dennis Murphy crossovers. I like Dayton Reference Drivers.

I built Zaph's Mini and was amazed at the performance for the cost. You can build two of them for $100 TOTAL cost, not just drivers and crossovers.

I have built 17 so far. I have built three home theater systems, two of which have RS315 based subs. I also use them for enclosure finish studies.

[Operandi]

Microbe would be my choice considering the budget.

[jkrutke]

I have built 17 so far. I have built three home theater systems, two of which have RS315 based subs. I also use them for enclosure finish studies.

Geez, if you keep going I think I'm going to have to give you some sort of award. Nice looking boxes there. Kinda makes my original walnut design look a little boring.

[Ray_D]

Thanks John

John

Thanks for your web site. It's great.

I'm sure you agree that the Microbe is a fine design. It's just not a $100 speaker. The RS150 is certainly better built than the MCM, but it's three times the cost.

I've included a picture of the oak veneer speakers I built for my sister. I've built similar ones for my kids in cherry, natural and stained dark walnut.

Ray

[jkrutke]

I hate to report that the Aura NT1 is out of stock. Bummer, as I've used it in two designs. (this mini and the 3.5 way Dayton Tower) I also hate to report that none of the PE neos are suitable replacements without a crossover redesign.

I'm still waiting to hear from anyone if the rear-mount Dayton neos still have the packaging issues I've seen. Dented domes were too common with that tweeter. If anyone has a recent purchase of the ND20FB with a form fitted plastic cover rather than a square foam pad, let me know.

I will be investigating the new Hi-Vi T20 as a replacement. Of course the verdict is out on it's real performance numbers, so nobody get your hopes up.

[Outfitter]

Hey Ray-

Thise speakers look great! In post #9 from left to right what veneer and finish did you ise on each one?

[Outfitter]

Hey Ray-

Thise speakers look great! In post #9 from left to right what veneer and finish did you use on each one?

[Ray_D]

Veneers and finish

Stained quartered oak, natural quartered mahogany and natural flat cut cherry.

The finish is General Finishes Arm-R-Seal wipe-on poly on all.