Looking for a simple yet effective way to amplify your phone’s sound? Chad from Chad DIY created a fantastic wooden speaker that enhances the audio quality without the need for wires or complicated setups. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you build your own wooden speaker.
Materials Needed:
- 1×6 Oak Board (4ft long)
- Minwax Red Mahogany Stain
- Spray Polyurethane
Tools Required:
- Miter Saw
- Router
- Hole Saw Bit
- Planer
- Scroll Saw
Step 1: Cutting the Wood
Chad starts by cutting 9 1/2 inch pieces from a 4ft long 1×6 oak board. He cuts five pieces to ensure he has extras in case of mistakes.
Step 2: Drilling Holes
Next, he drills two 2 1/2 inch holes in three of the boards using a drill press with a hole saw bit. Chad emphasizes the importance of taking it slow to ensure clean cuts.
Step 3: Planing the Boards
One of the boards is then run through the planer to match the thickness of his phone, allowing a snug fit when assembled.
Step 4: Creating Sound Channels
Chad sketches out the areas to cut channels in the wood, which will help amplify the sound from the phone’s speaker. After cutting, the channels are ready to enhance the audio experience.
Step 5: Gluing the Boards Together
He numbers the boards for proper alignment and begins gluing them together, ensuring the holes align well. After clamping, he lets the glue dry completely.
Step 6: Smoothing Edges
Once the glue has dried, Chad uses a jointer to smooth the long edges and a miter saw for the end grain edges. He aims for a polished finish.
Step 7: Routing for Rounded Edges
To give the speaker a finished look, he runs the edges through a router to create smooth, rounded edges.
Step 8: Sanding
Chad sands the entire speaker smooth, starting with a sanding mop and finishing with 220 grit sandpaper for a refined touch.
Step 9: Staining the Wood
He applies Minwax Red Mahogany stain with a rag, enhancing the natural grain of the oak.
Step 10: Finishing with Polyurethane
After the stain dries, Chad sprays on a semi-gloss polyurethane to seal the wood and protect it from wear.
Final Thoughts
Chad can’t believe the difference the wooden speaker makes when using his phone. This project not only enhances sound quality but also adds a touch of elegance to any space.
