e t u d e . T L . s p e a k e r

etude a musical term which literally means "a study."

It refers to a piece of music that was created for artistic or skill development purposes. To anyone who has built anything similar, a project such as this is a lesson in the art of speakerbuilding. This speaker is not the final word on high fidelity, but it certainly is a study.

Why DIY?

In a nutshell, DIY is for those who want more for less as well as the satisfaction of having created something exceptional.

I found a kit at Jaycar (no longer available) which included a Leap-designed crossover, drivers and hardware.

Expect to pay AU $800 - $1100 to build this speaker, depending on your suppliers and choices, particularly with respect to finishes. For a much less original comercial equivalent you can expect to pay at least AU $3000.

Benefits of DIY: <<<A few more reasons to choose the DIY approach.

The drivers

Tweeter:  1 x Vifa  D25AG 1" aluminium dome
Midbass: 2 x  Vifa P17 6.5" polycone

Information on these drivers can be found on the Danish Sound Technology website. These drivers are both very good value for money and are good all-round performers.

Listening Review: how does it sound?

Overall: This is a well-rounded and capable speaker that is well suited to many types of music. Vocals are clear and neutral. The bass is natural and extended.

The transmission line design yields a deeper in room bass response than a vented alignment. The bass is less punchy than a vented alignment, but is more natural sounding and more satisfying with music where you want to hear subtlety and musicality in the bass. The result is particularly satisfying with acoustic bass.

For more information on transmission line bass, refer resources section of this site.

This speaker is best suited to medium or large rooms, the latter if you aren't looking for full range high SPL levels. In a small room it is difficult to place them well.

If you would like to build this speaker:

All the information you need is included in the construction section. If you are considering buying a kit, you may find this a viable alternative, especially if you would like the satisfaction of having built your own.