BillFitzmaurice.info

My journey with Bill's plans began with the T39, which was the very first build I ever attempted. After that, I decided to take on another project, and these two cabinets represent my second and third builds. It's been a great learning experience, as they turned out significantly better than my first one. I've definitely picked up a few useful tips and tricks during the process.

I've found that Bill's instructions are incredibly thorough, and I typically stick to them quite closely. However, I do enjoy making a couple of minor modifications. For instance, I always make a point to add a reducer in some form. This extra piece helps to keep the chamber perfectly square and adds a significant amount of solidity to the overall structure.

For these specific cabinets, I decided to use LAB12 drivers. Unfortunately, I made a common rookie mistake by relying on the enclosure information from Parts Express instead of double-checking the manufacturer's official website. This oversight meant my reducer ended up being pushed all the way to the edge of the cabinet, which unfortunately prevented me from installing the recessed side handles I had originally planned. As a result, I chose to go with heavy-duty flush-mount handles, though I'm still not entirely convinced they were the perfect choice.

I put a tremendous amount of care and effort into ensuring these cabinets are as clean and solid as possible. While I don't consider myself a technical expert in acoustics or a hardcore audiophile, I am extremely particular about build quality. In my opinion, the most crucial part of these designs is how the braces connect. If those connections aren't perfectly secure, the entire cabinet is prone to rattling, and that's something I work hard to avoid. I may ask silly questions along the way

Welcome back Kent! All great ideas. LAB drivers, in any flavor, are excellent performers. Can't wait to see what you come up with.

Thank you Radian! Yeah, so these are being made for someone and I quite honestly can't do them much less than a LAB12. I mean, come on...

I do have to stop here and say I appreciate the drawing guide that Bill has with the designs. They are spot on.

I use a CAD program to get me numbers that I like to cross check, even though this isn't a tough build. I'm a bit nitpicky with 1/32nds and all. I prefer to map everything out in CAD and recheck while I'm building.

One thing I deviate from is that I don't put the side panel on first. I wait until everything on the inside run is complete, then I sandwich both outsides at the same time, roughly. So basically the first thing I put together is the baffle chamber with the drive anchor and retention blocks.

Circle jig is necessary IMO.

Baffle chamber is assembled, and I'm now on to the bracing. I'll reiterate, I think the most important pieces on these builds are the solid connections of the braces to the body. I’m focusing on a thin, even bead and a strong, consistent clamp to activate the polyurethane and fill any micro-gaps.