Birch vs 3/4 MDF SPL box

[pro-rabbit 5,000+ posts]

I only use MDF for any and all SPL builds I have ever done. This includes any of the records we set before and any of our clients builds we currently do.

We also only use MDF in pure SQ builds.

We only use Birch if the client truly wants it, and/or if weight is an issue. Other then that, MDF is and always will be the way to go.

 

---------- Post added at 09:22 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:22 AM ----------

 

I know 1 for sure plus with birch over mdf, it cuts way better and less mess than mdf LOL

Get a dust collector and that is fixed.

 

[xSPLoder 10+ year member]

Get a dust collector and that is fixed.

Thing that kills me though is whenever I am using my jig to cut the sub hole on mdf, the dust covers up the line im trying to follow and drives me nuts when I have to stop every 4 seconds to whipe to dust away hahaha

 

[shawnjdog]

there is such a thing as a burp box that is only a burp box, not everyone needs to play music... 

---------- Post added at 10:04 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:03 AM ----------

 

you will be much happier with birch, its massively easier to work with and will be much lighter when finished.

he said that he wanted to play music as well. maybe you should learn how to read.

 

[pro-rabbit 5,000+ posts]

Thing that kills me though is whenever I am using my jig to cut the sub hole on mdf, the dust covers up the line im trying to follow and drives me nuts when I have to stop every 4 seconds to whipe to dust away hahaha

Get a router with a circle jig and hook said router up to the dust collector.....fixed //content.invisioncic.com/y282845/emoticons/suave.gif.858fc102f7646e678ee8af7e1fbc41d1.gif

 

[xSPLoder 10+ year member]

Never messed with one before. I just might have to. When it comes to boxes, I not the most inclined but everything else I have locked down

 

[shawnjdog]

Never messed with one before. I just might have to. When it comes to boxes, I not the most inclined but everything else I have locked down

designing and building enclosures is a fine art... take the time to learn all about them and you will be very happy.

 

[xSPLoder 10+ year member]

I got a buddy that is good with them teaching me but I am the type of person that likes to hear more than 1 persons opinion. I am a sponge soaking up knowledge when it comes to boxes LMFAO

 

[hispls 5,000+ posts]

I use plywood and I have talked to guys that have done world records that use it. Brace when appropriate, double layer if you can, and the only difference is weight, weather resistance, and how much easier it is to work with.

 

[cyn 10+ year member]

I prefer Japanese Maple or Birch over MDF.. after using the 3... but mine is mainly the weight factor..

 

[xSPLoder 10+ year member]

I prefer Japanese Maple or Birch over MDF.. after using the 3... but mine is mainly the weight factor..

I'm trying to cut down on weight in my explorer. Running 2 subs that alone almost weigh 170lbs plus batteries, box and amp. Thing is, Ill be running 5k next year and need something that can handle that kind of power without blowing apart.

 

[cyn 10+ year member]

I'm trying to cut down on weight in my explorer. Running 2 subs that alone almost weigh 170lbs plus batteries, box and amp. Thing is, Ill be running 5k next year and need something that can handle that kind of power without blowing apart.

I had less issues with the Maple and Birch coming apart than MDF.

The box I have my HC in right now is MDF and it is basically blowing every seam apart on 1200watts and this is the first box I have ever had do that. I did always have Issues with the sub bolts/screws pulling through the mdf. The Japanese Maple is about 10-15% lighter than the Birch and costs a little more but looks much better. and yes I use 2" woodscrews every 6" plus wood glue..

 

[pro-rabbit 5,000+ posts]

I had less issues with the Maple and Birch coming apart than MDF. The box I have my HC in right now is MDF and it is basically blowing every seam apart on 1200watts and this is the first box I have ever had do that. I did always have Issues with the sub bolts/screws pulling through the mdf. The Japanese Maple is about 10-15% lighter than the Birch and costs a little more but looks much better. and yes I use 2" woodscrews every 6" plus wood glue..

Any box "blowing" apart is a failure in construction not the material. If you sub is pulling the screws that hold it down out that is also a construction issue as it is caused by the baffle flexing.

 

[Chriszle 10+ year member]

I've been running 5k worth of power to my subs in a box made from 3/4" MDF. Double baffle front, no internal bracing other than the ports and 45s in the corners. No issues whatsoever. There are no screws in the box either //content.invisioncic.com/y282845/emoticons/smile.gif.1ebc41e1811405b213edfc4622c41e27.gif.

 

[xSPLoder 10+ year member]

my double faced mdf box now is blowing apart with my XFL's and I plan to drop in my HD's or something bigger. Both will be running off the same amp but with the XFL's I was at 1 ohm now Ill be going down to .5 so I know that box will be crying after.

 

[CAT MAN 5,000+ posts]

yeah mine did the same thing til i braced the back beter