I have posted some photo’s of the build process and final outcome of my HT3i’s.
Being a relatively experienced woodworking hobbyist (the TV cabinet is also my creation) I found the cabinet building fairly straightforward and believe that if you have access to a table saw and router, most people should be able to make these speakers. I opted to have Al build the crossover for me, as my skills do not extend to electronics.
I am very happy with the outcome and think these speakers sound absolutely terrific. I have owned some reasonable equipment in the past (Quad amps, Thiel Speakers, Thorens etc.) as well as being exposed to some very high end systems Classe , Martin Logan, Krell etc through audiophile buddies.
I am using the HT3’s with Apple TV (Lossless format) output through TosLink digital to a Onkyo SR 606 receiver. For the price, I can not believe how good this system sounds. Sure, these speakers deserve better amplification, but even with this relative low end amp they sound really, really good!
The bass is very tight and well controlled and the highs are some of the most detailed I have heard. My listening has been focused on 2 channel rather than Home Theater, although I have watched a couple of movies with just the two fronts and am looking foreword to adding an HT2 center channel.
I have zero hesitation recommending these to anyone with some basic woodworking skills and an appreciation of great sound quality. `As many other people have commented, these are the real deal, I have heard nothing that comes close to them at anywhere near the price and AL has been a pleasure to deal with. If your in the market for high end speakers at a bargain price, go for it you won’t be disappointed.
PS make sure you give these a chance to break in. I have been very surprised at the difference between when I first put them on and after 40 – 50 hours of break-in.
PPS I seem to be brain dead and can't post the photo's as soon as I sort it out I will add.