View Full Version : Westminsters
daveskis
26-06-2011, 09:57
Slow progress this week.4818
aquapiranha
26-06-2011, 10:25
Slow progress this week.4818
David, that is fantastic! Many thanks for posting, keep them coming. A real help for those considering the same.
Can you post up the plans you are using? Thanks!
Post lots and lots of pics and details of the good and bad points of the build. This is really interesting.:cool:
daveskis
26-06-2011, 12:30
Just realised the photo I posted is last weeks effort, admittedly not much of change hence the reason for posting the wrong photo. Sorry about that. Should have been this one.
The challenge has to been to rekindle my woodworking skills. This and constantly referring to the plans for interpretation of the drawings makes for very slow construction.
Hoping to step it up as I get in to the next week.4819
The challenge has to been to rekindle my woodworking skills. .4819
Most of us would have started with making a spice rack or something!:lolsign:
daveskis
26-06-2011, 12:45
David, that is fantastic! Many thanks for posting, keep them coming. A real help for those considering the same.
Can you post up the plans you are using? Thanks!
Steve Hi
Yes plans came from a Serbian website DIY, here.......http://www.diyaudio.rs/topic/2723-diy-tannoy-westminster-royal/page__p__54067#entry54067
aquapiranha
26-06-2011, 13:06
Hi David, I downloaded the 19 .pdf's, is that all that would be needed or are there more3 required? Thanks for your help on this David.
daveskis
26-06-2011, 22:03
Hi David, I downloaded the 19 .pdf's, is that all that would be needed or are there more3 required? Thanks for your help on this David.
Steve
Some further advice.........
I downloaded almost all of the photos and comments on each of the web posts. I presume you translated them first.
As I may have indicated, I spent literally hours studying every detail(the Westminsters are a very complicated design)and to further complicate matters the guy has also included some of the previous measurements from another copy which are clearly wrong(these are the four or five plans he posted before the 19PDF's)
Sorry it sounds as though I am advising you against starting the build.
Feel free to PM me if you want advice as you go along.
aquapiranha
27-06-2011, 00:17
Steve
Some further advice.........
I downloaded almost all of the photos and comments on each of the web posts. I presume you translated them first.
As I may have indicated, I spent literally hours studying every detail(the Westminsters are a very complicated design)and to further complicate matters the guy has also included some of the previous measurements from another copy which are clearly wrong(these are the four or five plans he posted before the 19PDF's)
Sorry it sounds as though I am advising you against starting the build.
Feel free to PM me if you want advice as you go along.
Thanks David. I am still just 'considering' the idea. I have never actually heard westminsters but I have heard Canterburys and a couple of other and all impressed greatly. Now, DIY canterburys would be doable too, but I have never seen any DIY versions.
:scratch:
The Tannoy Monitor Golds are on my wish list for a vintage/classic set up. Doing a lot of research on the various cabinet builds together with the upgrading of the crossovers etc.
I will embark on a similar project when I have decided on the rest of the gear hopefully over the coming months.
Do keep us informed on how you get on. I'm sure a lot of us will be asking a lot of questions on your recreation of the Westminster.
daveskis
30-06-2011, 22:59
My garage is still lined with panels that unbelievably will still be added to the two enclosures.
4866
4867
daveskis
01-07-2011, 03:47
The Tale of the Tannoys
Once upon a time way back in the 70's I attended a Hi Fi Show in downtown Melbourne Australia.
There we were all gathered in a room to listen to a bass drum test record(yes that old fashioned vinyl stuff) The amp used can't remember, the speakers were those amazing Paul Klipsch Corner Horns. My body moved on that day
with the bass drum. I was blown away as they say in the classics.
I just have to have some of these I thought, couldn't be that hart to procure some.
Fast Forward 2011.........(no I didn't buy Mr Klipsch speakers in 1974 I built Arden Monitors instead).
So the drivers are 15" Monitor Golds Dual Concentrics HPD 385A's. The rolled edges have been replaced with new and the x overs have new components.
The Ardens have served me well, it's now time to replace them, and in the back of my mind I'm hoping that the elusive bass drum sound will be replicated and move me once again in a couple of months time........from vinyl in my own living room, instead!!
At worst I have two new places to live now.
Thing Fish
01-07-2011, 07:16
At worst I have two new places to live now.
:lolsign:
aquapiranha
01-07-2011, 07:41
Nice work David!
I really do doff my hat to you DIY chaps, it never ceases to amaze me what you create. :respect:
Nice to have a garage to start a project such as this. Not easy when you live in an apartment where space and praticality is an issue. The only way for me is to hijack my parents garage but would mean clearing out all my other junk:lol:
Good work Daveskis - what are using for the wood - mdf and birch ply?
I joined because or your build here, and I'll watch with interest.
I've heard factory Westies a couple of times and nearly bought some a few years ago, out of Melbourne, actually.
daveskis
03-07-2011, 12:47
I joined because or your build here, and I'll watch with interest.
I've heard factory Westies a couple of times and nearly bought some a few years ago, out of Melbourne, actually.
Brett
Using MDF with Plywood Veneer might use Tasmanian Blackwood(its such a great and unique timber in Oz) as the finish material for all the outside panels. looking to make WMR's unique.....can't say Im that keen on the classic walnut factory look.
Any suggestions gratefully received.
daveskis
04-07-2011, 21:49
Stained the internal panels to match the outer panels last night. The Tasmanian Blackwood has been ordered for the external panels......I'm amazed at the huge difference in the wood color of the sheets from almost creamy yellow to reddish brown. It is indeed a beautiful timber and from one of the oldest forests on the planet.
I have decided to strengthen all the panels.......this is not on the plans, but can't be anything but a good idea I'm thinking.
daveskis
05-07-2011, 10:31
Panels have been trimmed and sanded. The outer panels are checked for fit and more bracing 19mm ply strips are added for strength4907
Did you make any modifications to the plans from the Serbian project?
Any useful tips you have encountered would be greatly appreciated. Do keep us informed on you progress and plenty of photos please.
I hope to embark on a similar project soon.
southall-1998
05-07-2011, 19:18
Panels have been trimmed and sanded. The outer panels are checked for fit and more bracing 19mm ply strips are added for strength4907
LOL, I can see your cat doing a stretch in the background, and it's bum in the air. Nasty little thing ;)
daveskis
06-07-2011, 00:01
Did you make any modifications to the plans from the Serbian project?
Any useful tips you have encountered would be greatly appreciated. Do keep us informed on you progress and plenty of photos please.
I hope to embark on a similar project soon.
Peter be very careful with the plans. As I indicated before he has mixed up plans from elsewhere with his own.
I have altered the panel sizes of most panels and added quite a bit more internal bracing.
As indicated by one of these forums he has the front speaker horn slightly too high(although I think this is more aesthetic than anything else)
If you start with construction of the bases and then the internal panels and work towards the outer panels, you can't go wrong really.
Make no mistake they are complicated, print out the plans and study them for a couple of hours, before you start.
Magna Audio
06-07-2011, 12:30
Wow, this is a great looking project.
As a GRF builder and now 5 way horn DIY builder I know some of the logistics involved in something of this scale. Full marks for taking it on.
I look forward to reading the updates and that wonderful time of commissioning and first listening...
Peter be very careful with the plans. As I indicated before he has mixed up plans from elsewhere with his own.
I have altered the panel sizes of most panels and added quite a bit more internal bracing.
As indicated by one of these forums he has the front speaker horn slightly too high(although I think this is more aesthetic than anything else)
If you start with construction of the bases and then the internal panels and work towards the outer panels, you can't go wrong really.
Make no mistake they are complicated, print out the plans and study them for a couple of hours, before you start.
Have printed out all the plans and tried to familiarise myself the different panels and their connecting pieces. Hoping to just hand over a spec list to my local timber merchant for pricing and hopefully if not too expensive also for him to cut the wood to the exact sizes.
I will not rush into this as you said it is a complicated build.........
Keep the progress report coming in.........:)
daveskis
06-07-2011, 23:20
Wow, this is a great looking project.
As a GRF builder and now 5 way horn DIY builder I know some of the logistics involved in something of this scale. Full marks for taking it on.
I look forward to reading the updates and that wonderful time of commissioning and first listening...
Thanks Steve, I read your posts of the GRF build with great interest before i started the WMR's.
I did wonder a couple of times about building the GRF's. I guess it comes down to plenty of designs and details of builds for the GRF's and alas only one I could find on Westminster's(written in Serbian, and nothing wrong with that he did a fantastic job, better than I did on the translation for sure)........and I'm crazy enough for the challenge, hope they come someway near your job Steve.
daveskis
06-07-2011, 23:36
Have printed out all the plans and tried to familiarise myself the different panels and their connecting pieces. Hoping to just hand over a spec list to my local timber merchant for pricing and hopefully if not too expensive also for him to cut the wood to the exact sizes.
I will not rush into this as you said it is a complicated build.........
Keep the progress report coming in.........:)
Yes mate caution is a word you should use often in sentences describing this build(just try for instance looking at the plan and figuring out where the rear horn goes from the 15" drivers to the front)
Start with the base(don't use any of the plans first listed on his posts No.6-11....Print No.12 which is the List of all the Panels, then all No13. Starting with WMR 1.pdf to WMR 19.pdf)
As I started to say build both bases Panel R, as he has done and then build from the centre out.
daveskis
06-07-2011, 23:51
As I said earlier on this thread, I did a lot of research before starting the build on the WMR. Even to the extent of checking which type of adhesive would be best suited to the task. For all the joints requiring strength(screwed and glued), I'm using Durabond a Selleys product which has very high strength. It is unusual when it is drying it expands filling the joint and any gaps. Ok it is twice the price of Aquadhere......but excellent nonetheless.
I also use Interior Aquadhere for the larger areas gluing ply and veneer on to sheets of MDF.
For extra bracing where strength is required on internal Panels D I use strips of 25mm square ply and for locating of panels, on the Base Panel R and the Top Panel T, strips of 19mm square ply.
All the internal Panels are 18mm MDF the outer including front and rear 25mm with 3.6mm veneer adding up to 28.6mm.
And yes I did make the bases 54mm
daveskis
09-07-2011, 00:26
Panels are sanded once, stained once and lacquered once.
And now to construction of the front horn ribs.........this should be interesting....now where are my protractors and compass??4915
daveskis
09-07-2011, 09:50
Wow these have taken a long tome to build.......3/4 of a day....although I do have the Top Ribs started at least. The problem. How do you cut a nice smooth circle, anyway it has taken far too long.4921
Nearly there daveskis.......good luck with the rest of the project.
Would love to see the finished cabinets which should inspire me to take on the project myself. In the meantime I will do some research on the Tannoy drivers.
daveskis
10-07-2011, 23:47
Nearly there daveskis.......good luck with the rest of the project.
Would love to see the finished cabinets which should inspire me to take on the project myself. In the meantime I will do some research on the Tannoy drivers.
Peter I would get your drivers first.....if you haven't already. And just go for it.
As I indicated before, preparation is the key to success here. You need to know every detail before you start.
Check the plans, check the measurements, re-check the measurements, re-check the plans.
Half way through attaching square 25mm ply for supports on Panel D(the first internal panels) I discovered I hadn't allowed for the thickness of Panel J. Which placed the other two supports lower on the same face in the wrong position. Fortunately I had only glued and screwed one of these.
Its the only mistake so far..........that I'm aware of.....hope I haven't missed any.
But look its timber you can change anything. I like to think of it as my interpretation of the plans and I can already see where I have improved these cabinets.....of course the proof will be in the listening.
As to your research in to the Tannoy Drivers you get what you pay for and you get a lot. Why are they famous, because they are excellent at what they produce, very good sound.
daveskis
19-07-2011, 22:46
At last the Top Ribs are ready to attach. It was a little tricky to get right.
The Top Ribs are a different curve to the Lower Ribs, the Serbian Plans have the Horn about 2cm too high in the enclosure......but as I have previously indicated this is structural and should have no impact on sound reproduction. It is a lot easier and I think I prefer the asymmetrical look
Still waiting on my Tasmanian Blackwood Veneer to progress further with the boxes. 4969
4970
aquapiranha
19-07-2011, 22:49
Looking good Dave! Keep the updates coming.
Wakefield Turntables
20-07-2011, 15:28
Been following this with some interest, the speakers look great. They must be massive as they appear to dwarf your car!!
Wow. Big Cabinets indeed.
I would not be able to get them out of my apartment when I decide on a house move.:lol:
daveskis
01-08-2011, 03:50
Wow. Big Cabinets indeed.
I would not be able to get them out of my apartment when I decide on a house move.:lol:
Well there you go Peter, you can live in them with an annex.
daveskis
03-08-2011, 23:47
The front Panels with Tasmanian Blackwood veneer applied. The Horn space is yet to be cut.5035
RochaCullen
05-08-2011, 11:48
I'd like to register a complaint. Progress on this project is too slow :ner: !!
My interest is so piqued that I feel the project must be finished imediately, or I just might burst!! :lol:
The front Panels with Tasmanian Blackwood veneer applied. The Horn space is yet to be cut.5035
The pattern on those panels looks amazing. Grest choice of wood there.
Does make a lot difference to the appearance of the cabinets.
Reid Malenfant
06-08-2011, 19:07
Very nice work indeed, following with interest :) I also wish you total success, this is one hell of a project :eek:
daveskis
20-08-2011, 10:52
Sorry it doesn't seem as though I am taking this project seriously enough.
There I go having skiing holidays to New Zealand and Perisher Ski Resort in Oz, while my two enclosure lay idle in my garage.
I am fairly desperate to get some results this weekend. Having said that, it has taken me all afternoon to locate and attach 8 'T' nuts for locating the drivers and attach over these 'T' nuts, the Blackwood Veneer, that will be the surrounds of the drivers.
However there are components complete waiting to be assembled. So there should be some faster progress soon.5118
daveskis
22-08-2011, 22:13
Tha cabinets are looking better with three coats of satin. 5143
daveskis
22-08-2011, 22:15
The inspector approves the changes!5144
Wakefield Turntables
23-08-2011, 13:54
Those are HUGE :eek: check out the size of the cabinets to your garage door :)
Those are HUGE :eek: check out the size of the cabinets to your garage door :)
Um, will they fit through, won't they David? :eek: ;)
Thing Fish
23-08-2011, 16:04
Have you thought of renting them out as holiday lets...?
Wakefield Turntables
23-08-2011, 19:26
:lolsign:
Have you thought of renting them out as holiday lets...?
daveskis
24-08-2011, 10:34
The Front Panel is fitted and one of the Top Panels. All screwed glued and dowelled for extra strength.
5149
daveskis
24-08-2011, 10:36
The internal shot shows some of the complicated design of the internal horn.5150
Reid Malenfant
24-08-2011, 18:08
Wow, they are coming on really well indeed :) Congratulations :cool:
Wish i could say the same for my own speaker project :doh: Looks like i need at least 3 more 8' x 4' & my back in good order first :rolleyes:
daveskis
26-08-2011, 11:18
I'm starting to feel slightly excited about the prospect of seeing and hearing the final result.
If I was to build a second pair, it would be completed in half the time, thats for sure.
And thanks so much to everyone for the kind words
daveskis
26-08-2011, 11:22
And a bit later in the afternoon, after dropping part of the frame for top half of the front horn, and breaking it in two.
Here it is attached not much worse for the impact with the concrete floor5187
daveskis
04-09-2011, 22:41
The inspector wants a few changes and the whole project speeded up a bit!!5242
aquapiranha
04-09-2011, 22:45
Looking good!
Starting to look like a Westminster now...outstanding :)
daveskis
08-09-2011, 02:02
What a difference one coat of gloss can make5257
daveskis
08-09-2011, 02:04
And a closeup of this beautiful timber
Looking really good. Do you have an estimate of the total cost of the build?
daveskis
09-09-2011, 02:29
Looking really good. Do you have an estimate of the total cost of the build?
Rob(Puffin)
I think about $2000 tops possibly under this. I have the 15"HPD Gold Monitor Drivers from 1975 and the xovers have been recently upgraded to Solen Caps etc and I see Marco has used better quality caps again, which is a road I may travel down.
But if you add in QED Silver Anniversary Speaker Cable to upgrade and hard wire the internal wiring of the Cabinets. And the above Xover changes.....we may go over the $2000.
And it is so easy to justify the purchase of any new tools and equipment when the retail price of Westminster Royals are $42000 or whatever dollars here in Oz.
However when you build it yourself I think it is extremely likely that you can achieve a better result than the factory made version(extra bracing in the cabinets, MDF is better than ply, better glue, more screws, Blackwood is a better finish than Walnut, and so on)
The short answer is I haven't kept a record......$2000, $3000, or $4000 compared to $42000????
daveskis
14-09-2011, 22:07
5291.Any suggestions gratefully received, I don't want to go overboard with costs.
The Front Horns just need many coats of gloss and Blackwood trim, I should get a very nice finish.
I have to say that the process of constructing the ribs, and attaching the base strips and then forming the Blackwood Veneer on the Front Horns has been the most difficult and time consuming part of the build. However I am very satisfied with the result.
daveskis
14-09-2011, 22:09
5292Hope they sound as good as they look???
aquapiranha
14-09-2011, 22:14
Lovely Dave, keep the updates coming!
Fantastic work.
I'd expect them to sound stunning.
What varnish/oil or wax have you used for the finish?
daveskis
15-09-2011, 01:20
What varnish/oil or wax have you used for the finish?
Anguished over this. And tossed around all sorts of ideas re the finish and finally decided. This is one of natures finest timbers. To bring out the warmth and beauty you can't beat many many coats of Gloss Water Based Polyurethane. Why water based? Well I am told by those that have more knowledge than I that water is best, it makes sense to me.
A couple of posts back Stuart you will see the difference just one coat made. I'm almost excited about the prospect of the finished look.(the more coats the more lustre and depth of grain and detail is created)
Anguished over this. And tossed around all sorts of ideas re the finish and finally decided. This is one of natures finest timbers. To bring out the warmth and beauty you can't beat many many coats of Gloss Water Based Polyurethane. Why water based? Well I am told by those that have more knowledge than I that water is best, it makes sense to me.
A couple of posts back Stuart you will see the difference just one coat made. I'm almost excited about the prospect of the finished look.(the more coats the more lustre and depth of grain and detail is created)
Thanks david.
Did you sand between coats?
daveskis
15-09-2011, 21:37
Yes Im down to using 320 grit and will probably sand after every coat now except the last two.
I still have the outside panels(Panels A, for those of you that have printed the copies of the plans)that are yet to have the first coat applied.
Reid Malenfant
15-09-2011, 21:45
1000 grit can still be quite rough depending on the finish you want ;) Don't think that as it wears it'll be finer, you'll stil have those bigger peaks of material that will stuff the overall finish ;)
Keep going to finer grit paper & unused stuff to get the best finish...
Love what you are attempting to do :)
daveskis
16-09-2011, 01:06
1000 grit can still be quite rough depending on the finish you want ;) Don't think that as it wears it'll be finer, you'll stil have those bigger peaks of material that will stuff the overall finish ;)
Keep going to finer grit paper & unused stuff to get the best finish...
Love what you are attempting to do :)
Yes Mark you are correct. I think I said 320 grit but it's known as Super Fine which is 350 - 600.
I am using Auto Grade for the Absolute Clear Gloss Flawless Finish at or near the last coats.
Which seems a long way from about 120 grit sand down of the Veneer at the start to remove a slight water stain on one of the front baffles.
daveskis
18-09-2011, 22:06
More bracing internally more gloss applied to the front of the cabinets and Panel A 5346
daveskis
18-09-2011, 22:07
5347
Thing Fish
18-09-2011, 22:23
Beautiful plumage the westminster blue...
daveskis
25-09-2011, 21:46
5369 Panels A are attached, considerably adding to the weight. Dowels glue and screws used to increase strength.
Thing Fish
25-09-2011, 21:55
You must have bloody big doors in your house? Unless your thinking of converting your garage into the music room?
They look stunning by the way.
daveskis
26-09-2011, 01:40
You must have bloody big doors in your house? Unless your thinking of converting your garage into the music room?
They look stunning by the way.
Thanks, they will go in sideways, gee I don't need to add much more timber to cause that problem...........they will, I think??????
aquapiranha
29-09-2011, 18:54
Lovely! now we need pics of them finished and a full report on how they sound!
daveskis
03-10-2011, 04:58
Lovely! now we need pics of them finished and a full report on how they sound!
Steve I am a little way off that yet. Still have the drivers to mount and rear panels. Top and bottom plates and castors so I can move them.
And I still have more coats of lacquer to go.....and and....... gee it could take a while.
daveskis
06-10-2011, 21:43
5430
daveskis
06-10-2011, 21:44
5431
Beautiful workmanship, David.
The Grand Wazoo
06-10-2011, 22:37
Well done, that finish has come up a treat.
My personal preference is for oiled wood, but that's as shiny as shiny gets! Impressive.
daveskis
07-10-2011, 10:19
I have set myself a four week time limit to finish the project
daveskis
10-10-2011, 21:20
Upside down and ready to add the base5437
daveskis
10-10-2011, 21:21
5438
daveskis
10-10-2011, 21:24
Right side up again and beautiful Tasmanian Blackwood Veneer added to Top Panel 5439
daveskis
10-10-2011, 21:28
5440The Top Panel now trimmed with the router and sanded ready for many coats of gloss lacquer
Reid Malenfant
10-10-2011, 21:36
David, they look superb, but you don't need me to tell you that at the the end of the day ;) I'm sure you are about to have a superb experience on top of the looks of your DIY enclosures!
You have taken your time & done the business, full praise to you fella, someone who has never built their own speakers could never realise the work that has gone into them!
Something tells me you'll have a big smile on your face pretty soon :eyebrows:
daveskis
10-10-2011, 22:03
David, they look superb, but you don't need me to tell you that at the the end of the day ;) I'm sure you are about to have a superb experience on top of the looks of your DIY enclosures!
You have taken your time & done the business, full praise to you fella, someone who has never built their own speakers could never realise the work that has gone into them!
Something tells me you'll have a big smile on your face pretty soon :eyebrows:
Mark
Thanks for the very kind comments.
Well hoping, but really have no idea how they will sound. Hope I am not disappointed after so much work.
I am having to borrow some equipment to fire them up because I sold my Pre amp and Power Amp on the weekend.
I'm looking for tube stuff now.
daveskis
13-10-2011, 21:15
5459Rear Baffles are painted and ready to attach
daveskis
13-10-2011, 21:17
546025mm square is attached to support the Rear Baffle
Reid Malenfant
13-10-2011, 21:19
Nearly there fella :partytime: Wishing you all the best with this as your work looks exemplary ;)
daveskis
13-10-2011, 21:19
5461Close up of Front Horn detail
aquapiranha
13-10-2011, 22:37
Fantastic! I bet you are itching to get the drivers in and put on that first track...
Thing Fish
13-10-2011, 23:28
Fantastic David. I can't wait to (virtually) hear the results.
daveskis
14-10-2011, 04:16
Yes I have made a mental note to self. Enclosures must be complete before fire up!!
Otherwise the risk is they will never be. After that first note passes through the air, the next project starts.
I think we all need to charter a plane..... and fast!
daveskis
25-10-2011, 11:42
5501The Blackwood Trim has a profile added.
daveskis
25-10-2011, 11:45
5502The Trim is almost ready to attach to the cabinets.
Thing Fish
25-10-2011, 12:06
:popcorn:
daveskis
26-10-2011, 10:02
5505Creative clamping, when every clamp is never enough!!
I would love to be able to hear these!
daveskis
15-11-2011, 22:13
All the trim has been routed and is ready to attach..........dare I say could be in the home straight or at least in sight of it.
Reid Malenfant
15-11-2011, 22:19
Eagerly awaiting your impression of how they sound installed ;)
I have routers & drills to :eyebrows: Come on man, nearly there :)
Soon to be audio nirvana me thinks, low powered class A amps will enthrall :)
daveskis
16-11-2011, 02:50
Eagerly awaiting your impression of how they sound installed ;)
I have routers & drills to :eyebrows: Come on man, nearly there :)
Soon to be audio nirvana me thinks, low powered class A amps will enthrall :)
Mark
You are reading my mind, scary! But seriously thanks so much for your encouragement along the way.
I have an Audio Research Ref 2 Mk2 Pre amp on order, used of course. What are your thought on Class A Power amps that would possibly match this.....tubes probably.
On the vinyl side I have a Linn with Ittock Arm and Dynavector 20dXX Cartridge and the Phono Stage is a Linto.
Those Westminsters will need control even if not a lot of power. How about EAR power amps, such as the 861?
http://www.ear-yoshino.com/products.php?catId=6#
This is definitely in the top 5 (if not actually no1) of the best builds done on AoS, chaps, is it not? :)
Marco.
Certainly in the top 5, Marco. Fabulous build quality and attention to detail. I'd love to hear them when they're ready.
Reid Malenfant
16-11-2011, 18:18
Mark
You are reading my mind, scary! But seriously thanks so much for your encouragement along the way.
I have an Audio Research Ref 2 Mk2 Pre amp on order, used of course. What are your thought on Class A Power amps that would possibly match this.....tubes probably.
On the vinyl side I have a Linn with Ittock Arm and Dynavector 20dXX Cartridge and the Phono Stage is a Linto.
Hi David, in all honesty I'm not the ideal person to recommend any valve amps as I have never owned one :eyebrows: Plenty of others here who can do that though ;)
Actually thinking about it I can recommend at least one valve amp :eyebrows: Get yourself something like Marco's copper amp! Fantastic sound with power to spare, it'd blow you away...
However, as you appear to be keen on DIY you could always tackle the updated John Linsley Hood class A power amps if you put your mind to it (well I reckon you could at any rate). These are 30W RMS per channel monoblocks, with low open loop gain & thus low feedback - which makes them rather musical indeed...
They look absolutely lovely David :)
This is definitely in the top 5 (if not actually no1) of the best builds done on AoS, chaps, is it not? :)
Marco.
:thumbsup::thumbsup:
i think you will find its the room size that makes a difference to the sound more than anything
Thing Fish
17-11-2011, 00:17
I can't wait to hear them (Virtually)...:)
daveskis
17-11-2011, 07:28
5601
5602
5603
5604
5605
daveskis
17-11-2011, 07:32
5606
bobbasrah
17-11-2011, 08:04
Have been following this build with interest and considerable curiosity. Truly beautiful cabinet-work and detailing.
Very impressive, but they have a big empty hole in them...
Reid Malenfant
20-11-2011, 18:44
I just did a brief calculation using some of the panel dimensions to work out the enclosure volume taken up & it's not small :eek:
Leaving out the top panels & the small stand they are each over half a cubic meter in volume ;)
I thought I was going to build some big speakers, but they'll be a bit smaller than these :eyebrows:
Come on Dave, nearly there now fella :cool:
spendorman
20-11-2011, 19:44
They look like a work of art, absolutely fabulous.
Are you going to seal in inside faces of the wood? I wonder if it would stabilise the structure.
I am at present listening to a pair of HPD315's in very tatty Devon enclosures.
Every amp I have tried them with seems OK. So far tried a Hong Kong EL34 single ended, Radford STA25 III, NAD 3130, Quad 303, Pioneer SA-410, Luxman L-200, and believe it or not, an 80's Ferguson plasticky music centre, and that too sounds fine.
daveskis
21-11-2011, 21:54
I just did a brief calculation using some of the panel dimensions to work out the enclosure volume taken up & it's not small :eek:
Leaving out the top panels & the small stand they are each over half a cubic meter in volume ;)
I thought I was going to build some big speakers, but they'll be a bit smaller than these :eyebrows:
Come on Dave, nearly there now fella :cool:
Yes Mark at 1265x467x560 roughly a little over half a cubic meter and I'm guessing about 130 Kg each.
However a friend of mine here in Oz has just demo'd for me his pair of Osborne Monuments @ 175 Kg each.
I think I am getting excited now.
Reid Malenfant
22-11-2011, 17:44
Yes Mark at 1265x467x560 roughly a little over half a cubic meter and I'm guessing about 130 Kg each.
However a friend of mine here in Oz has just demo'd for me his pair of Osborne Monuments @ 175 Kg each.
I think I am getting excited now.
:lolsign: I should bloomin well hope so Dave, look what you have achieved so far! They are just about finished, I'd be champing at the bit to see how they sound :D
daveskis
23-11-2011, 12:58
Some more creative clamping5635
daveskis
24-11-2011, 06:32
And now to the finish. Sanding sanding sanding.5637
5638
HighFidelityGuy
24-11-2011, 10:40
B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L!
They really do look the mutts nutts, my hat goes off to you :respect:
Thing Fish
24-11-2011, 19:05
Oh my Buddha...! they look amazing:eek::eek::eek:
Ali Tait
24-11-2011, 20:18
Proper Job!
daveskis
29-11-2011, 06:36
Hoping to have the cabinets in place and connected Wed night......yaaaaaahooooo!
You can wear that new frock! :eyebrows:
Marco.
daveskis
01-12-2011, 20:58
I though I was so clever using silicon to seal my cabinets. This is what remains after two hours of effort to remove the drivers from the cabinets.5667
Reid Malenfant
01-12-2011, 21:04
Nooooo, though you won't be needing them anyway ;) I always use either felt or some kind of thin closed cell foam to seal drivers to enclosures. Felt is best as there is no tendency to grip between the two what so ever :)
Come on Dave, if I'm the only one waiting for this I'll eat my benny hat!
Get em together brother :youtheman: :yesbruv:
daveskis
01-12-2011, 21:42
And now to build the Equipment Stand! 5668
5669
A review of the sound next.
I can say my vinyl collection has new life. The dynamics and drive from these Speakers is truly remarkable, you don't just hear the music, you feel the music entering the room.
Reid Malenfant
01-12-2011, 21:49
Ahhhh, at last we get to the good bit :eyebrows: Well done Dave :cool:
Based on the last time I heard Westminsters, I can feel yours from here :)
WOStantonCS100
02-12-2011, 05:30
Wow. Much, :respect:
Thing Fish
02-12-2011, 06:23
Hell fire...:eek:
What does it cost now to buy a pair of these from Tannoy? £25K? What an outstanding DIY effort, if AOS handed out medals Dave would get one for this build.
Ali Tait
02-12-2011, 17:48
Yes indeed. Fantastic job.
Truly Beautiful, just need to build a hifi rack to match now:ner:
Well done Dave - fabulous!
daveskis
04-12-2011, 21:38
First I should say I am humbled by all the positives comments and encouragement along the way from all of you on the forum that have followed this build and you, enthusiasts, with far more knowledge and experience than I am ever likely to have. And thankyou also to AOS for this indulgence, prior to this I was not even a member.
.
My first listening, with more notes to follow later when I hook up my Phono Amp, and have my Pre Amp and Power Amp delivered……..soon I hope.
For those that know the sound of horns or don’t, the music is big and powerful, you don’t just hear the music you also feel it through your body. These speakers impose themselves and dominate the listening space. They are very big. The bass is big and moving but not limited to only this frequency but right across the mid range and treble the sound is more live and energetic. The soundstage is immense.
I suspect, I hope, another curtain will be lifted from the sound when I add the right amplification in a week or two. But gee it is very, very nice already.
Thing Fish
04-12-2011, 23:46
Thank you David for building these behemoths under our wondering gaze.
Its been a real pleasure to witness the birth of a real pair of hand built/crafted speakers with pictorial narration.
I like many others can only wonder how those beautiful speakers might sound.
Its a testament to your wood working skills and knowledge as to how good they look and will undoubtedly sound as part of a balanced system.
...:)
The only thing missing in that picture is my living room!
I love them.
Magna Audio
05-12-2011, 12:36
Amazing / beautiful -real craftsmanship there.
You have to build a pair of full size Autographs now to compare the two designs:)
First I should say I am humbled by all the positives comments and encouragement along the way from all of you on the forum that have followed this build and you, enthusiasts, with far more knowledge and experience than I am ever likely to have. And thankyou also to AOS for this indulgence, prior to this I was not even a member.
.
My first listening, with more notes to follow later when I hook up my Phono Amp, and have my Pre Amp and Power Amp delivered……..soon I hope.
For those that know the sound of horns or don’t, the music is big and powerful, you don’t just hear the music you also feel it through your body. These speakers impose themselves and dominate the listening space. They are very big. The bass is big and moving but not limited to only this frequency but right across the mid range and treble the sound is more live and energetic. The soundstage is immense.
I suspect, I hope, another curtain will be lifted from the sound when I add the right amplification in a week or two. But gee it is very, very nice already.
daveskis
05-12-2011, 21:47
Amazing / beautiful -real craftsmanship there.
You have to build a pair of full size Autographs now to compare the two designs:)
Steve
Ha ha, yes possibly but you jest, or maybe not, given the dedication on this forum......... I am in the middle of building an Equipment Stand/Rack to compliment the Westies same timber.
But I could go crazy!
Thing Fish
05-12-2011, 22:34
:popcorn:
Elvis's last movement
06-12-2011, 19:25
Didn't know what to expect...stunning simply stunning.
daveskis
08-12-2011, 11:23
The Equipment Rack on the way.5694
Steve
Ha ha, yes possibly but you jest, or maybe not, given the dedication on this forum......... I am in the middle of building an Equipment Stand/Rack to compliment the Westies same timber.
But I could go crazy!
I was thinking Jensen Imperials, complete with naked girl, it adds a little sweetness to the sound.
http://www.decware.com/imperial.htm
Ducatiist
08-12-2011, 16:30
What an absolutely awesome thread.
Your woodworking skills are very plain to see...I wish i had 10% of your talent. Congratulations on such a great build....I guess the stand will be equally impessive, looking at the photo.
Well done and total respect
Your woodworking skills are very plain to see...
...or plane.
daveskis
08-12-2011, 21:13
I was thinking Jensen Imperials, complete with naked girl, it adds a little sweetness to the sound.
http://www.decware.com/imperial.htm
Impressive. Then I would have to relocate or I could look at it as two rooms to let........28 cubic feet phew!!
daveskis
14-12-2011, 23:01
Now I wait for the other components. CD Player Pre - Amp and Power to complete the transition.5757
5758
Reid Malenfant
15-12-2011, 15:56
David, you really must have the patience of a saint :rfl: I'd have the things up & running on whatever I could cobble together just to listen to what those speakers could do ;)
Speakers 11 out of 10, the rack looks kind of tasty to :cool:
David, you really must have the patience of a saint :rfl: I'd have the things up & running on whatever I could cobble together just to listen to what those speakers could do ;)
+1:rolleyes:
Impressive. Then I would have to relocate or I could look at it as two rooms to let........28 cubic feet phew!!
530 liters is how menny cubic feet.
Those Westminster s are pretty big too aren't they?
The Grand Wazoo
18-12-2011, 10:27
I think it's 18.72 cu ft Jeff
I guess the Imperials are noticeably larger.
Reid Malenfant
18-12-2011, 19:06
I think it's 18.72 cu ft Jeff
Bang on the money :) 28.3L per cubic foot. I often need to convert between the two & likewise with inches & centimeteres.
You knew that anyway Chris, or you worked it out ;) Either way you are not wrong...
daveskis
27-12-2011, 21:22
If you concentrate you can hear Neil Young singing 'Old Man' on the remastered 180gm Vinyl, it sounds so sweet.5863
Reid Malenfant
27-12-2011, 21:27
If you concentrate you can hear Neil Young singing 'Old Man' on the remastered 180gm Vinyl, it sounds so sweet.
Now then David, about Scalford next year......
:rfl:
Man they look something :stalks:
If you concentrate you can hear Neil Young singing 'Old Man' on the remastered 180gm Vinyl, it sounds so sweet.5863
Hey Dave,
Knock out build, just found a copy of Greendale on vinyl after a year of trying to find it at the right price-you mentioned an early memory of Klipsch khorns well i am using Belles-great speakers but your thread has inspired me to interpret the plans which i have been doing for the last 2 days to incorporate 18 and 24" marine birch- on the Serbian plans part w seems to not join the back but your part w seems to-iI asume part w does join the back.
What drivers and cross overs did you fit at the end? HPD 385's?
Regards Si....again great project executed beautifully!
daveskis
28-12-2011, 03:50
Now then David, about Scalford next year......
Yes I see what you mean..........would love to get there sometime, sensational.
daveskis
30-12-2011, 01:49
These speakers need some room and a large room at that. The soundstage is wide detailed and even better on good pressings. You can make them sound slow and dull with poor equipment choices and poor pressings, and can also be bright and edgy. However, they are utterly magical, musically colorful, naturally life-like, and astonishingly expressive when matched with the right associated equipment. (I am still waiting for my Pre-Amp and Monoblock Power Amps). I have had them connected to an old Yamaha Intergrated Amp from the eighties delivering very nice sound. For the last three weeks a DIY buddy has loaned me his 100 watt DIY amp with an attenuator, which is much more musical and punches out even more rock solid bass and detailed midrange. And yes, this is also very nice.
Of the different equipment I've listened to, I've come up with a conclusion that equipment matching that works well in my room would really make
Westminster Royals sing in a larger room. I've found the Westminsters to be at their best with associated equipment that is tonally rich and colourful, extended and well behaved at the frequency extremes, smooth, transparent, and somewhat detailed. But isn't that the case with all equipment, I guess. As I said earlier 180gm re-mastered vinyl sounds sensational. Listening to ‘Old Man’ on Neil Young’s re-mastered Harvest 180gm was an absolute delight, I played it several times, James Taylor’s Banjo-guitar is a highlight.
As I have mentioned before the sound coming out of the Westminsters moves over your body, you feel the music entering the room and your body. I have not heard loudspeakers do this anytime before. Playing World Party, It Can Be Beautiful on vinyl, you can hear the twang of the bass guitar. The waves entering the room literally move you without shattering your ears with loud music. The music is effortless and detailed without the sound becoming strained to the ears or the brain.
I think these speakers will do, after all, how many people can ad, these are hand made and I built them myself.
daveskis
30-12-2011, 02:40
Hey Dave,
Knock out build, just found a copy of Greendale on vinyl after a year of trying to find it at the right price-you mentioned an early memory of Klipsch khorns well i am using Belles-great speakers but your thread has inspired me to interpret the plans which i have been doing for the last 2 days to incorporate 18 and 24" marine birch- on the Serbian plans part w seems to not join the back but your part w seems to-iI asume part w does join the back.
What drivers and cross overs did you fit at the end? HPD 385's?
Regards Si....again great project executed beautifully!
Hi Simon
Don't know how the comparison with the Belles will unfold, I don't think you will be disappointed.
The Panel W does join the back as you will see in my photos. I did wonder about this.......and you will find there are a few times you will puzzle over the plans.
But it seems obvious that the Panel W must seal with the Rear Panel E when the back is attached.
The Xovers are the originals that came with HPD 385A's, however the wire is QED Silver Anniversary all the way to the drivers and the caps and resistors are all new.
Please post if you have any more hiccups. The plans are by no means complete. I was also puzzled by the need for Panel O and the extra panels(triangle shaped panels) to seal this from the chamber. If you go to Serbian Post No.41 you will find the explanation how W fits.
Hi Simon
Don't know how the comparison with the Belles will unfold, I don't think you will be disappointed.
The Panel W does join the back as you will see in my photos. I did wonder about this.......and you will find there are a few times you will puzzle over the plans.
But it seems obvious that the Panel W must seal with the Rear Panel E when the back is attached.
The Xovers are the originals that came with HPD 385A's, however the wire is QED Silver Anniversary all the way to the drivers and the caps and resistors are all new.
Please post if you have any more hiccups. The plans are by no means complete. I was also puzzled by the need for Panel O and the extra panels(triangle shaped panels) to seal this from the chamber. If you go to Serbian Post No.41 you will find the explanation how W fits.
Many Thanks for the reply Dave, seems yours are performing well nice write up.
I am also having problems with parts o- there are no measurements to attatch them to part h so they will have to be attatched while building to locate them correctly. I was thinking about the closing in behind parts o and will do some drawings today to see if it is possible to move parts o up to form a natural channel to part f or move part f down to join o rather than make those odd shaped pieces to close the gaps-i think the triangle are neccesary for the back of parts o.
May be another solution would be to angle parts f to allow o to follow into the channel at a natural angle.
The other part is the opening in h as i would prefer a symetrical curvature into the driver so I can't see the problem in making the 722 measurement smaller so that the curves above and below the driver are the same.
Thanks for your help and on with the 4th day of drawing!
Cheers Si:)
Hmmm, so making the appature in part h (front) smaller for symetrical curves into the driver was not giving the right look-I want both curves to be the same but bigger than the top one.
What I need to get hold of is an original measurement from a Westminster of the distance between edge of drive unit to top of curve at the front of the speaker cabinet as you look at it.
Anyone got some original Westminsters?:)
Cheers Si
Superb work.
Afraid i don't have the patience,money or skill but lovely to see what can be achieved.
daveskis
31-12-2011, 03:40
Many Thanks for the reply Dave, seems yours are performing well nice write up.
I am also having problems with parts o- there are no measurements to attatch them to part h so they will have to be attatched while building to locate them correctly. I was thinking about the closing in behind parts o and will do some drawings today to see if it is possible to move parts o up to form a natural channel to part f or move part f down to join o rather than make those odd shaped pieces to close the gaps-i think the triangle are neccesary for the back of parts o.
May be another solution would be to angle parts f to allow o to follow into the channel at a natural angle.
The other part is the opening in h as i would prefer a symetrical curvature into the driver so I can't see the problem in making the 722 measurement smaller so that the curves above and below the driver are the same.
Thanks for your help and on with the 4th day of drawing!
Cheers Si:)
Hi Simon I have you a private message
Dave
daveskis
31-12-2011, 03:45
Superb work.
Afraid i don't have the patience,money or skill but lovely to see what can be achieved.
Stu
Patience, yes you need a little, money, not much......when you hear the result, it's peanuts, skill, if you can feed yourself you will accomplish it. Go for it. I would like to see a resurgence in the use of these magnificent speakers, to hell with the size.
daveskis
01-01-2012, 11:40
5915The F5 Nelson Pass Mono's arrive today. And already the Midrange, Treble and Bass are more clinical and defined.
Hey those looks well sexy, David! :eek: :stalks:
Marco.
daveskis
03-01-2012, 09:13
Hey those looks well sexy, David! :eek: :stalks:
Marco.
Yes unfortunately no warm tube glow from these babies.
However you will pleased to know Marco the Pre Amp will have valves.
Nice one, David. However, I love Nelson Pass designs, and those monoblocks have a beautifully understated visual appeal that I simply love!
I hope they sound as good as they look :)
Marco.
I love Nelson Pass designs
You seem to quite like my Pass preamp, and especially its remote control :lol:
daveskis
05-01-2012, 12:26
Nice one, David. However, I love Nelson Pass designs, and those monoblocks have a beautifully understated visual appeal that I simply love!
I hope they sound as good as they look :)
Marco.
There is some genius about Nelson Pass. They have improved the sound to the Westies by a large measure. I think I will be blown away by the addition of a Pre Amp. Here is hoping.
Hypnotoad
05-01-2012, 20:31
Holy cr@p those are just beautiful.
They are a work of art no mistake.
You seem to quite like my Pass preamp, and especially its remote control :lol:
Aye, especially the bit that adjusts the volume - UP! :eyebrows: :rave:
Marco.
daveskis
12-01-2012, 21:59
It is a month now since the Westminsters were wired up to an old Yamaha Intergrated 70 watt Amp. However now I have improved the system to what follows below. It is a big improvement indeed.
I am using a very early Linn Sondek. Plinth stripped down to original timber and re lacquered, corner bracing added. This has highlighted the beautiful timber underneath all that dreadful stain. New motor and Cirkus Kit fitted. Trampoline Mk2 fitted with new Arm Board.
A Linn Ittok LV2 with Dynavector 20XX cartridge finishes all the above very nicely.
A Linto Phono Section feeds in to an Attenuator which connects to my L5 Nelson Pass Design Monoblocks via Avanti Connects.(This wll go when my Audio Research Pre-Amp arrives.)
From here the signal feeds down QED 2 Silver Anniversary Cable to the Westies. These sit on 4 Spikes I made from 50mm stainless steel tube with spikes welded in to the centres.(With 130 kilos on top of them, they have embedded in to the wooden floor by now)
What am I enjoying on them now, well here goes........all 180gm.......Harvest - Neil Young, Dixie Chicken - Little Feat, Ladies of the Canyon - Joni Mitchell, JT - James Taylor, Mothership - Led Zepplin, Astral Weeks - Van Morrison, The Suburbs - Arcade Fire.
Simon you are in for a treat mate, I bet you can't wait!
Thing Fish
12-01-2012, 23:13
LP12 ittok LV2...Nice...:)
daveskis
21-01-2012, 23:46
Alas the.........A Linto Phono Section feeds in to an Attenuator which connects to my L5 Nelson Pass Design Monoblocks via Avanti Connects.(This wll go when my Audio Research Pre-Amp arrives.)
Will not be arriving two deals have fallen through in a week for one in the UK and another in Oz.
Might have to go for a Croft Marco.
daveskis
07-03-2012, 02:26
I am having the paper cones changed to something akin to the Tannoy Red cones. Im assured this will make quite a substantial change to the sound.
Hi Folks,
Thought I would post some pics of my build here (if thats ok Dave),
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7055/6967599107_b367a834c2.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6967599107/)
DSCN0483 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6967599107/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7196/6821465098_7741730f4e.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6821465098/)
DSCN0456 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6821465098/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7206/6967581191_c22612f9a7.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6967581191/)
DSCN0462 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6967581191/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7193/6821444672_5057a6bcfe.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6821444672/)
DSCN0490 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6821444672/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7178/6967560145_4e259f203e.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6967560145/)
DSCN0480 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6967560145/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7209/6967543563_e3f0a08b2d.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6967543563/)
DSCN0455 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6967543563/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
Made a few alterations to the baffle on mine and they are in crown cut oak.
Will be using 3839 drivers with external cross overs.
Cheers Si.
bogle111
10-03-2012, 18:35
Very nice. And your choice of oak.
I have the desire, just lack the ability.
daveskis
14-03-2012, 10:39
Nice work Simon and great progress. More photos please.
Hope to be finished by Easter....
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7073/7013706283_6b82691c91_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7013706283/)
DSCN0544 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7013706283/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7115/7013705679_da63056e53_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7013705679/)
DSCN0542 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7013705679/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7116/7013705325_6c22bc06a2_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7013705325/)
DSCN0541 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7013705325/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7237/7013704973_3af53cffd8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7013704973/)
DSCN0540 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7013704973/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7083/7013704635_c8300cb85c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7013704635/)
DSCN0538 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7013704635/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7224/6867592926_15a3a17c08_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6867592926/)
DSCN0533 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6867592926/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7270/6867590440_9e1ddd894f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6867590440/)
DSCN0525 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6867590440/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7198/7013698409_67d9f09835_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7013698409/)
DSCN0518 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7013698409/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7091/7013693315_0c9c287b6c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7013693315/)
DSCN0503 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7013693315/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
Cheers Si:)
Reid Malenfant
26-03-2012, 20:53
Keep up the superb work Simon :) Now I can see how to bend MDF panels, though it has been described to me on another occasion - it's nice to "see" how it's done!
Lovely work fella :D
Cheers Mark,
Going too deep with the cuts can cause raised lines on the flat surface so as shallow as you can get them to form the necessary curve is the way to go for a clean finish.
Cheers Dave for your excellent thread and lets hope they sound ok as i have read mixed feelings on room size, obviously the bigger the better i would have thought but i have an average size room i guess 18x14ft so am hoping they work in my space-we only rent so not a total cock up if they don't but its been great fun building them!
Cheers Si.:)
I am only about 35 miles from you, can I come and hear them when they are finished, please please please :D:D:D
I am only about 35 miles from you, can I come and hear them when they are finished, please please please :D:D:D
PM sent-no probs!
Cheers Si:)
daveskis
27-03-2012, 21:28
Nice job on the curves Simon. How did you hold the shape. Have got support under there.
The cabinets will work fine in your size room(about the same size as mine)however they will work so much better in a larger room where you can move them out from the rear wall and have the space to move them apart.
I am taking delivery of a Audio Research LS26 in the next day or so, can't wait to hear the change in my system. Hopefully better.
What amp pre-amp combinations are you intending to use Simon. Vinyl?
Nice job on the curves Simon. How did you hold the shape. Have got support under there.
The cabinets will work fine in your size room(about the same size as mine)however they will work so much better in a larger room where you can move them out from the rear wall and have the space to move them apart.
I am taking delivery of a Audio Research LS26 in the next day or so, can't wait to hear the change in my system. Hopefully better.
What amp pre-amp combinations are you intending to use Simon. Vinyl?
Very much the same as what you did Dave, 3 supports top and bottom, I have a Well Tempered GTA / dynavector xx2 as source which i really liked through my old set up but am still pondering on amps-I am not going to spend huge amounts as for me the fun is getting top results for under 3k (not inc record player which is the one thing i am finding hard to sell from my old kit)-so Leak S20/croft pre is what am intending for starters with a mm cart maybe a Decca if i can squeeze it into budget.:)
Have you still got the Pass amps as i e-mailed Nelson and had a funny reply regarding Tannoys and tooooo much bass-I was considering a F5 up until that point as he was on the money with the X250 for my Shahinian set up.
...I think you will like the AR by the way!
best Si.
daveskis
27-03-2012, 22:54
Eh um er, Nelson is wrong(gee, I don't like to mention it) the F5 are quite lovely with the Westminsters........when could you ever have too much bass. They will cost you next to nothing to build....."kitchen table stuff" with the same budget.
I will let you know when I plug in the AR mate.
aquapiranha
28-03-2012, 12:03
Eh um er, Nelson is wrong(gee, I don't like to mention it) the F5 are quite lovely with the Westminsters........when could you ever have too much bass. They will cost you next to nothing to build....."kitchen table stuff" with the same budget.
I will let you know when I plug in the AR mate.
I have heard a Pass F3 (DIY) and I thought it sounded wonderful (with Impulse H2's) and have considered building one but the thread over on DIYaudio is so long and complicated I wouldn't know where to start!
:lol:
I am only about 35 miles from you, can I come and hear them when they are finished, please please please :D:D:D
Me too please and i live very close
A selection of amps could accompany me as well if you like :D:D:D
I won't be offended if you dan't won't me too, a bit hurt maybe but i will get over it in time with counselling i suppose :eyebrows:
Me too please and i live very close
A selection of amps could accompany me as well if you like :D:D:D
I won't be offended if you dan't won't me too, a bit hurt maybe but i will get over it in time with counselling i suppose :eyebrows:
Haha-You would also be more than welcome Jon, will pm my details, as i have said should be mid to late April maybe Sat or Sun afternoon and evening-we will have to get a time when we can all make it,well all 3 of us:)
Best Si.
I have PM'd JB. I said to him that April may become May....June.... Diy is not an exact science!
Rob.
good stuff, looking forward to it :D
Zoidburg
29-03-2012, 07:57
Epic build and an amazing finished product mate!
Thanks folks,
Here are the external cross overs, I am not happy with the boxes so am going to re make them this weekend, very hard to achieve perfect mitres so will try through the table saw or a router to see if that gives better results.
The tops will sit inside the rebate and are made of 3.1mm copper.
Many Thanks to Nick Gorham for his help with these.
http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6104/7030048113_5bb92f41bc_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7030048113/)
DSCN1434 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7030048113/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6035/7030046837_c40ca5024f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7030046837/)
DSCN1436 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7030046837/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7128/6883947858_e87dd6d115_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6883947858/)
DSCN1437 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6883947858/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
Cheers Si.
If you consider those too poor to use, you should see my appalling wood butchering skills. Those would be my best effort!
I made a power supply for DaveK a couple of years ago. I am sure he will be along with some pics of the "nice" enclosure.
daveskis
06-04-2012, 00:00
Thanks folks,
Here are the external cross overs, I am not happy with the boxes so am going to re make them this weekend, very hard to achieve perfect mitres so will try through the table saw or a router to see if that gives better results.
The tops will sit inside the rebate and are made of 3.1mm copper.
Many Thanks to Nick Gorham for his help with these.
http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6104/7030048113_5bb92f41bc_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7030048113/)
DSCN1434 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7030048113/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6035/7030046837_c40ca5024f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7030046837/)
DSCN1436 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7030046837/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7128/6883947858_e87dd6d115_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6883947858/)
DSCN1437 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6883947858/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
Cheers Si.
Simon
Nice work where did the Xover design come from.
Dave
Hi Folks an Easter update...they are home,my arms a couple of inches longer than they were yesterday.
I will now spend the weekend fitting the moldings which should be a nice relaxing job and then fit the bases which i have made detachable to take a few pounds of the weight for moving them which i hope won't be for a while now.
Heres some pics-
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7073/7048757739_0eb234e927_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048757739/)
DSCN0555 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048757739/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7110/7048757023_a470da5dd4_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048757023/)
DSCN0581 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048757023/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7205/7048756635_dc92f9b5cc_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048756635/)
DSCN0580 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048756635/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5321/6902665468_22eea56b9f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6902665468/)
DSCN0579 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6902665468/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5469/7048755671_db244d4095_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048755671/)
DSCN0578 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048755671/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5192/6902664604_bc7e6cef3f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6902664604/)
DSCN0577 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6902664604/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7232/7048754621_1d9ea43526_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048754621/)
DSCN0575 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048754621/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7217/7048753787_e8e68b9a60_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048753787/)
DSCN0572 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048753787/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7190/6902660784_0fa259ef7a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6902660784/)
DSCN0563 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6902660784/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5113/6902658590_46ecd98ea0_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6902658590/)
DSCN0554 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6902658590/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7230/6902657840_b2c742a661_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6902657840/)
DSCN0552 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6902657840/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5072/6902657038_423ccdabd7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6902657038/)
DSCN0549 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6902657038/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5339/7048746905_5ecb17976d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048746905/)
DSCN0546 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048746905/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5457/7048746351_fae458bbda_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048746351/)
DSCN0545 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7048746351/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7116/6902657604_51d0658701_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6902657604/)
DSCN0551 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6902657604/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
Dave, i will post some more info on the cross overs as i think they will be subject to some adjustments when the drivers are fitted-i will hopefully have a chance to hear the Pass amps that you are using soon so really looking forward to that!
Best Si.
aquapiranha
06-04-2012, 18:21
Yes I cannot wait to see them finished!
Sent from my E10i using Tapatalk
Gettting on with them now, i'm getting excited :eyebrows:
Do you take commissions or do lessons in wood butchering
Hi all,
Had a busy weekend, Girlfriend went to London so out came the saws!...and the hoover.
The solid oak mouldings have all been cut and fitted, they just need a good sand, then 2 coats of the polyx oil and a buff up with the drill. I studied the original mouldings closely and it was hard to work out how they may have been cut so artistic license here, a little different to the originals but very close, mine have a slight lip into the tops and also a slight angle on the edges of top and bottom to echo the finish on the vertical front mouldings, I'm very pleased with them.
All other panels apart from the fronts have been pre finished-the Osmo polyx oil is a really nice finish, not too reflective, just a satin finish that lets the grain come out nicely while drying very hard so very protective.
I also put a driver loosely in place to get an idea of how that area will look, the bases also still need to be attached and the backs also...nearly there.
Pics-
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7104/6910668830_debe9d3d5d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910668830/)
DSCN0590 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910668830/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7129/7056755973_39bd922052_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7056755973/)
DSCN0593 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7056755973/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7104/7056750981_3b8f7abe9f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7056750981/)
DSCN0592 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7056750981/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5448/6910663046_2b3466875c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910663046/)
DSCN0603 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910663046/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7196/6910659136_2058bef833_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910659136/)
DSCN0589 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910659136/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7277/7056739915_8f9c082766_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7056739915/)
DSCN0598 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7056739915/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7245/7056737653_dbc754cf36_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7056737653/)
DSCN0588 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7056737653/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7246/6910650192_6699226b3e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910650192/)
DSCN0587 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910650192/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7054/6910647694_554146cbc5_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910647694/)
DSCN0585 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910647694/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7099/6910643150_0dd2227732_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910643150/)
DSCN0584 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910643150/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7094/7056721029_e542aa7892_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7056721029/)
DSCN0591 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7056721029/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5450/6910634348_b636b72a48_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910634348/)
DSCN0597 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910634348/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7232/6910632588_bc879a74fe_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910632588/)
DSCN0594 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6910632588/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7102/7056714807_fbbe7d1485_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7056714807/)
DSCN0595 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7056714807/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
Best Si.:)
aquapiranha
08-04-2012, 19:19
I have often wondered why Tannoy only do the walnut finish and not oak or ash too. I can safely say that these will look BETTER than the originals IMO.
daveskis
10-04-2012, 11:20
Very Nice Work Simon......love that look. All power to you. I know how much work there is in those boxes. Good work mate!
Wakefield Turntables
10-04-2012, 20:15
Gobsmacked, they look fantasic. :stalks:
Listener666
14-04-2012, 09:13
I have often wondered why Tannoy only do the walnut finish and not oak or ash too. I can safely say that these will look BETTER than the originals IMO.
Its usually quite difficult to get diy stuff to look good in pics..........these look great......I'v spent many hours in a workshop making things...(wish i still had access to a cnc miller or laser cutter :().......i would be surprised if these were not better than the originals, although its a while since I have seen any close up.
Great job..........
now they look great , how are they sounding
Thanks for all the positive feedback on these speakers, the finishing has taken me every evening this week for about 4 or 5 hrs an evening, waiting for drivers now.
I made a "stretcher" for the grille cloth, i am not a fan of the original Tannoy cloth so have gone with a very fine painters linen over an oak frame-feedback on this would be good.
Dave-yes lots of work here and thanks for your input and for letting me crash your excellent thread.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5336/6930072918_69a6d8fc01_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6930072918/)
DSCN0619 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6930072918/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7224/7076150027_5ce67c5ff8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7076150027/)
DSCN0636 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7076150027/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7078/7076150913_cd5878717a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7076150913/)
DSCN0617 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7076150913/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7090/6930075550_dd01affc9e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6930075550/)
DSCN0618 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6930075550/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7243/7076152887_79dccf7e21_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7076152887/)
DSCN0620 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7076152887/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7138/7076153823_c5a2e74e56_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7076153823/)
DSCN0621 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7076153823/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7051/6930078492_2a7e4971f7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6930078492/)
DSCN0622 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6930078492/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7093/7076155823_7519458294_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7076155823/)
DSCN0623 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7076155823/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5323/7076158605_42f8838aa5_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7076158605/)
DSCN0626 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7076158605/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5330/7076159539_9a06b0523a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7076159539/)
DSCN0627 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7076159539/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7137/6930083900_8284536e42_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6930083900/)
DSCN0635 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6930083900/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
Thanks for looking Si.
I think all the superlatives have been said before:)
Yes, really superb. I bet you can't wait to get the driver in there and fire it up.
daveskis
15-04-2012, 11:16
[QUOTE=simonms;316080]Thanks for all the positive feedback on these speakers, the finishing has taken me every evening this week for about 4 or 5 hrs an evening, waiting for drivers now.
I made a "stretcher" for the grille cloth, i am not a fan of the original Tannoy cloth so have gone with a very fine painters linen over an oak frame-feedback on this would be good.
Dave-yes lots of work here and thanks for your input and for letting me crash your excellent thread.
Hi Simon
I'm pleased some one has picked up the baton and run with it. Are you using External Xovers. This is where the fun starts and the tweaking happens.
[QUOTE=simonms;316080]Thanks for all the positive feedback on these speakers, the finishing has taken me every evening this week for about 4 or 5 hrs an evening, waiting for drivers now.
I made a "stretcher" for the grille cloth, i am not a fan of the original Tannoy cloth so have gone with a very fine painters linen over an oak frame-feedback on this would be good.
Dave-yes lots of work here and thanks for your input and for letting me crash your excellent thread.
Hi Simon
I'm pleased some one has picked up the baton and run with it. Are you using External Xovers. This is where the fun starts and the tweaking happens.
I am using external cross overs but will send them with the drive units up to Lockwood for their thoughts, a little tweaking i expect once the drivers are mounted but not too much i hope.
Really want to hear them now so a rather frustrating wait, hope its not too long now, i have bought an Acoustic Masterpiece AM201 (Airtight) to use with them so thats also something i am looking forward too.:)
Best Si.
daveskis
17-04-2012, 00:54
Yes I know how agonising the wait can be. Thats a sweet amp. Its a pity you are so far away Simon.
I would love to hear that setup.
Hi Folks,
Minor set back here, the drive units were not re conable to 3839:(
...so to cut a long story short I will be using HPD 385's which will arrive on Monday.
This set back has meant re designing the inside of the baffle to fit the 385's and also changing the external cross overs to suit these drivers.
I have bought the 385's with the original cross overs which i intend on comparing with the external ones but they will have to be tweaked owing to the added efficiency of the bass driver-can anyone offer any advice on this as this is where i have no experience at all.
Dave-it is a nice amp, not heard it yet but its beautifully built as you would expect from an off shoot of Airtight, the previous owner used it with GRF's so it should be a good match at 22wpc.
Many Thanks in advance,
Si.
Regarding cross overs- i have gleaned a little from the Yahoo group and a few other sources so am on the right track i think-i have a schematic for a MG 15"for the Autograph which may be ok for the Westminster, component changes are changing the cap on the input to hf section to 10uf, changing the 50 ohm resistor to 100 ohms and the 20 ohm resistor to 10 ohms, another important change seems to be moving the drivers tap of the autoformer to the lowest rather than the second lowest tap which steps the tweeter level up more to match the efficiency of the woofer with horn loading to its full range-i will work through it with Nick and see how we get on-the drivers turned up yesterday so measured out and cut new carriers for them so the cross over is the last piece if the jigsaw.
Any other ideas for tweaking the 385 cross over for use in the Westminster.
Dave-what did you do for cross over duties?
Ta Si.
daveskis
09-05-2012, 11:01
Simon re xovers,I used the original xovers that were supplied with my HPD385's. Not totally suitable now for horns(looking at something external), however they have been upgraded with new caps etc.
How are you traveling now with the new drivers.
Hi Dave,
All fine now, baffles re cut for the HPD 385's, new cross over boxes made up, cross overs are developing, start point was the 385 cross over bet a few tweaks needed for extra bass efficiency which could eventually mean transplanting the Autotransformer from the original cross overs into the external ones but will see how it sounds first, just waiting on damping material to turn up then ready to go!
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8016/7132539683_e38085c8a8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7132539683/)
DSCN0677 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7132539683/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8021/6975738822_0703040684_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6975738822/)
DSCN0671 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/6975738822/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8001/7145157321_e59a5f66a9_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7145157321/)
DSCN0686 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7145157321/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8163/7132536829_605ca07cd1_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7132536829/)
DSCN0676 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7132536829/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
Will post again when up and running, once i have the finished cross over i will let you know the schematic.
Cheers Si
daveskis
10-05-2012, 07:13
Nice work on the boxes, Simon. Yes I did the same just transferred the original cover, set the levels to flat and dropped in the cabinet. Keep me posted mate
Well they are working, please ignore the source, waiting on Well Tempered to be joined by a phono stage next week. Still work in progress, need to fit the bases. The sound is not quiet right, muddled and recessed in the mids and no real high end sparkle but.....but they are, even that said, astonishingly dynamic and physical.
I think a better source will help a lot here, some damping (but not a lot) and a few tweaks in the cross overs high filter settings etc. Here are some pics of them as they stand.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7086/7278636556_87f4b399a7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7278636556/)
DSCN0791 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7278636556/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7096/7278638562_345f058c3a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7278638562/)
DSCN0792 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7278638562/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7228/7278645700_2fa2326c07_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7278645700/)
DSCN0795 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7278645700/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7221/7278643866_b325865f5d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7278643866/)
DSCN0796 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/48329457@N06/7278643866/) by simon ms (http://www.flickr.com/people/48329457@N06/), on Flickr
Cheers Si.
Reid Malenfant
28-05-2012, 18:34
Bloody hell they are big :eek:
Must say though that they look simply stunning, incredible work Simon :D
Hopefully you'll get things more integrated in the near future, gotta say it'd definately be worth it considering the awesome workmanship - credit to you fella :)
Yes, I fully appreciate big speakers and they look massive even compared with mine. Gorgeous things, I hope you can tune them in.
Simon, you know you have some eager ears waiting to join you:D
Holy Cow, Simon they are stunning! You are a true craftsman and have my utmost admiration, well done Sir.
:king:
The Grand Wazoo
28-05-2012, 19:43
What a beautiful job, you must be very proud.
Ali Tait
28-05-2012, 20:30
Very very nice. Well done!
looking relly nice in the lighter colour, not so oppressive as the originals if you know what i meen
daveskis
06-06-2012, 06:39
Oh yes Simon looking great, very nice job. What damping did you add inside and where.
I removed all the dacron from the horn chamber and also from the rear of the drivers. I packed dacron in all the other cavities not used in sound reproduction or air movement. The only damping I used was thick rubber backed carpet squares on the rear baffle cavity facing the driver.
I have no doubt the sound dynamics will change completly with the addition of bases, treble tweaking etc
Keep us informed mate. I love that oak BTW.
Dave
Thanks Dave, good to hear from you. Only had then running for 5 or 6 days so the re coned drive units and cross overs need a little time to burn in but my experiments with damping have lead to none at all, still some work to do as you say,listening to the different filters in the cross over, fitting the bases (doing that today) and fitting some good quality speaker connections to the backs as i have the units hard wired to the cross overs as it stands and taking some measurements/cross over tweaks.
Great speakers, well worth the work-whole new listening experience!
...Art Pepper is here in the room!
Cheers Si:)
Big Vern
06-06-2012, 14:29
Hi Simon,
Just wanted to add my congratulations - the 'speakers are a real work of art and I agree - the lighter colour works extremely well :)
Top man - really well done - I can only begin to imagine how good they sound
Best Wishes,
daveskis
24-07-2012, 13:11
Simon how is that tweaking going mate, I've got to say my system is still evolving, the sound is improving (if it's possible)......it was already amazing
Just replaced my power supply on my Linn with a Hercules. I can't believe the spaciousness, the sound stage, sharpness in bass and treble.
I wouldn't have believed something as simple as a power supply could make such an improvement to the music.
The Grand Wazoo
24-07-2012, 18:06
Dave,
Are you still using that QED Silver Anniversary inside your speakers? If so, can I suggest you try experimenting with something else? It need not be expensive, but I would really recommend you try an alternative - you might be surprised.
Simon how is that tweaking going mate, I've got to say my system is still evolving, the sound is improving (if it's possible)......it was already amazing
Just replaced my power supply on my Linn with a Hercules. I can't believe the spaciousness, the sound stage, sharpness in bass and treble.
I wouldn't have believed something as simple as a power supply could make such an improvement to the music.
Hi Dave,
Am using the original cross overs as it stands, am living with them fine but do have an active cross over on its way which should be interesting.
Very happy with these speakers as it stands, they now measure very well especially in the bass and low mids which i have been told is testament to the build quality. I used to use an LP12 but now have a Well Tempered which suits me, it is a deck that i would find hard to fault.
Am looking into a Audio Note DAC 3 for future digital source and also am starting another speaker build.
I have not experimented with internal wiring but as Chris mentions may well be worth a play, i might have a go at that to...are your drivers hard wired?
Very Best,
Simon.
Simon,
I have yet to come and hear these beauties. I am interested to know what the measurements are.
Rob.
PS. Just re-read and you say "I am starting another speaker build!!!!!!! how many houses do you have!!!
realysm42
26-07-2012, 17:13
And can you build me some?
And can you build me some?
and me :D
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