[Bear]

Does anyone have any experience or thoughts on building an open baffle design(such as GR Research super V)  with a solid wood baffle as well as solid wood sides(maybe walnut) as opposed to MDF.  The bottom/sub portion of the cab will use 3/4 or 1" MDF or Medex  Will the hardwood have any effect on the sound in a design such as this?

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=73341.0

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=72093.0
 
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=73263.0

thanks
Shane

[mcgsxr]

I would doubt that the wood composition will make a difference for OB construction, but solid wood does run the risk of more warpage concerns.  I have modeled with cardboard in the early days, thus my opinion.

I will use birch ply when I rebuild my own OB, and then veneer to taste.

[driguy]

The wood you choose will make a difference for sure. Resonances will vary with material and it's thickness, shape etc. I would recommend 8/4 wood for the front vertical baffles if you can get it. Maple is not too expensive. Birch ply is very good too but see if your supplier has at least 1" thicknesses. That, or you can sandwich two 3/4" pieces together. The sides can probably be 3/4" but if you get the 1" stuff why not have all of it heavy duty to lower the vibration problems? Veneer to taste is a good idea. If you are not experienced in this get some "iron on" veneer and trim with a router.
One last thing. No matter which way you choose mounting the speakers via the rear of the basket or the magnet cover will definitely reduce vibrations transferred to the baffles. There is a thread about this in this forum. I tried it and it works. More work but it can be incorporated at another time if you wish. There is increased clarity this way.
Tony

[doak]

This read on EnjoyTheMusic DIY site is highly recommended:

http://enjoythemusic.com/diy/0709/open_baffle.htm

Introduction To The Art And Science Of Open Baffle Speaker Building
Article By Darrel Hawthorne Of Hawthorne Audio

[Bear]

doak, thanks for the link.  very informative and interesting.

[markC]

I didn't feel the need to veneer my baltic birch ply. I think it looks very good with stain and clear coat.