[termitesRus]

I'm not sure if this is the right place for this, if not, please let me know.
I'm building some enclosures and have the plans but i've noticed that in all the plans that i've seen all the pieces are just butted up to each other. As a woodworker i've been using "Rabbet" joints in cabinet construction. This is basicly a shoulder that is cut along the edge of a piece to allow another piece to sit in the shoulder and form a stronger joint. see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabbet
Is there a reason not to use this type of joint??

Also, I realize the reason for using MDF for the construction of the enclosure but what about laminating wood on the outside? would/could you use thinner MDF? say 1/2" MDF with 1/4" veneer? or leave the MDF 3/4"??

[Letitroll98]

You are correct about the joint, a rabbeted joint is much better than a typical butt joint with brace or dowels.  You might also consider a box corner joint or a milled corner joint for the top and sides, with a rabbet for the front panel.  All of these will be improved with additional internal bracing.

The ubiquitous 3/4" MDF is used for strength and resonance control.  I don't know why you'd use 1/4" veneer instead of 1/8", the added expense will add little to the quality of the speaker either as furniture or loudspeaker.  However many builders both, DIY and commercial, do use sandwiched materials usually as a constrained damping layer*.

P.S. jtwrace very much wishes that I correct the above to read constrained layer damping.  Consider it done. 

 

[nodiak]

termiteRus, use any joints you're comfortable with. The butt joints will work tho, especially when inner braces are glued to outer shell.
I've used resawn wood for veneer and on the advice of a more experienced furniture builder kept it to 1/4" or thinner. He said thicker could crack if it shrinks when glued to mdf. Maybe thicker would work ok, but I've had trouble with thicker woods cracking when laminated to plywood and a woodstove was used in the house.
Don

[doorman]

FWIW, I use but joints with biscuits for most cabinet construction, this on baltic birch/Russian 3/4" in ply.
This covered with paperbacked veneer works well for me.
Have also built several pairs of horns using plywood cabs, solid oak baffles.
The most important thing for me, is to have fun, enjoy the process!!
Best, Don

[Letitroll98]

Cleaned up a bit to stay on topic.

[dukecv]

As a woodworker I would say, by all means, use the rabbet joint. there surely can't be anything wrong with a stronger corner. Plus if you have the means to do so, i say do it.