Looking for DIY Outdoor speakers

0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic. Read 4581 times.

gmurray618

Looking for DIY Outdoor speakers
« on: 24 Feb 2013, 05:27 pm »
I would like to build a pare of outdoor speakers, robust enough to be left in the rain and sound good (non-audiophile's might say “Wow – they sound great!”). 

First the cabinets and cones:  I'm thinking sealed.  No ports – no critters.  I'll probably have them about 6 to 18 inches above the ground, about 15 to 20 feet separation, 25 to 45 feet to the listening position (floating in the pool – sitting on the deck).  Ideally they will disappear into the foliage.  To weather proof I was thinking of covering the exterior with fiberglass and extending the fiberglass over the front like an awning, (perhaps in a horn shape?). Now I realize that that last idea may have betrayed my experience or lack there of, so be kind. :)

Second the sound:  there is a large area that we will be listening, I don't expect the world (unless you tell me how I might get it)  I was thinking of a full range (nice and simple?) or two way. 
I'm looking for cabinet designs and driver (and tweeter) recommendations.  I would rather go deeper (front to back) than taller. 

Any pointers, links, ideas?  All are welcome.  ;)

George

decal

Re: Looking for DIY Outdoor speakers
« Reply #1 on: 24 Feb 2013, 05:38 pm »
Personally, I'd opt for some decent production outdoor speakers.I think you'd probably spend more money and not be satisfied with the outcome trying to do what you are considering. Just my opinion,not trying to dissuade you from your endeavour.

Vapor Audio

  • Industry Participant
  • Posts: 2025
  • Building Audio Bling since 2007
    • Vapor Audio
Re: Looking for DIY Outdoor speakers
« Reply #2 on: 24 Feb 2013, 05:52 pm »
I'd agree ... I even bought outdoor speakers instead of building something. 

The main problem is making a cabinet that will be extremely water resistant, basically means you need a plastic cabinet.  Any wood and it's going to swell and mold rather quickly, even if it's shielded from rainfall. 

Checkout Parts Express, they have some decent outdoor speakers for good prices. 

gmurray618

Re: Looking for DIY Outdoor speakers
« Reply #3 on: 24 Feb 2013, 07:18 pm »
Wow.  Not the responses I expected, but that's why I asked.   ;)
Thanks, I'll keep an open mind.

Letitroll98

  • Facilitator
  • Posts: 5752
  • Too loud is just right
Re: Looking for DIY Outdoor speakers
« Reply #4 on: 25 Feb 2013, 04:29 pm »
PA speakers are PA speakers for a reason.  They need high sensitivity to produce the sound levels you'd need for a large area, and the tweeters are highly directional to make up for the losses you get in outdoor applications.  Something like the Technomad might work well.
http://www.technomad.com/

If you want to stick with conventional speakers, Crutchfield has 5 pages of outdoor speakers, and I'm sure the other online retailers also have multiple selections. http://www.crutchfield.com/g_12400/Outdoor-Speakers.html?o=d