Im thinking about replacing my Klipsch RP 260F with some bookshelf speakers. I would like to upgrade if possible at the same time but would like to keep it under 1000 if possible. Right now all my speakers minus my sub are Klipsch but the new fronts don't have to be Klipsch. That being said I am considering the RP 600m since they are Klipsch. I would love some other suggestions though.
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You can build $1000 comparable speakers, for 1/2 to 1/3 the price by following plans from various audiophile designers (autists who do this as a hobby). There are a few different places to get parts, and even pre-cut (with CNC machine) MDF kits (I'll list some below).
Soldering your own crossovers is the most "technical" aspect, but the designers usually include easy to follow plans and build threads can be found to see a pictures of the layout.
Finishing the speakers can be some what time consuming, depending on your woodworking experience. MDF is the most commonly used speaker wood, due to its audio properties and it is best finished with a veneer. Otherwise, to paint MDF, you need to cut a small groove on all the lines were the wood pieces are joined, then fill with wood putty and sand flush. If you don't do this, the lines will show up through the paint on a high gloss finish. On the bookshelf speakers I built, I tried to just use sand paper and filler on the joints, and my piano black finish has lines at all the joints.
An alternative to MDF, is Russian/Baltic Birch plywood. From what I read, it has little to no voids in it, unlike domestic ply which is a mixed bag. Voids can cause resonance problems.
Parts Express (linked below) also has a wealth of information on speaker builds, with lots of pictures (
EXAMPLE $800 speaker set). Audioholics forum also has a bunch of build threads, for even more pictures (
EXAMPLE, currently being built)
I built the Speedster Bookshelf speakers from Paul Carmody:
DIY gives music lovers and audiophiles the ultimate power. First of all, DIY speakers use the same parts, building materials (usually), and design techniques of HiFi speakers in the 4 and 5-figure range. This means you can have that "rich" sound at a fraction of the retail cost. Second, by
sites.google.com
I bought my kit, with pre-cut pieces from:
We are doing some work on our site. Please come back later. We'll be up and running in no time.
meniscusaudio.com
I bought anything else I needed (like a Dayton amp) from:
Your Audio Solutions HQ Since 1986. Shop Audio Parts from Speakers and Subwoofers to Home Theater and Pro Audio. Top Gear at Low Prices and FREE Shipping
www.parts-express.com
Forum for speaker building:
Building & repairing pro/consumer audio, DIY tips & techniques, board modifications, and more! Tell us about that monster subwoofer you built that rattles the foundation of your home.
forums.audioholics.com