Whether you are an audiophile or not, listening to those basses from the sub is exciting as you feel the vibration. However, these vibrations can cause the speaker to disintegrate. Therefore, you need to house them in the best wood for subwoofer boxes. But, it’s not easy identifying the best, considering the many types out there. Hence, the reason our audio experts wrote this article.
Best Wood for Subwoofer Box
A subwoofer box ensures that the speakers don’t get damaged by the vibrations coming from the drivers. When sound is coming from the sub, its effect is a vibration in the space. At first, these vibrations may pose no harm to the speaker, but the vibrations can damage the speaker as time goes on.
Mechanical vibrations can also result in distorted sound output. Using the correct enclosure or subwoofer box will provide a more balanced bass sound for optimal performance, promote airflow, and protect the speaker from tears.
When buying the best wood for subwoofer boxes, you will come across enclosures designed with different materials. Such materials include;
1. Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF)
Medium-Density fiberboard, also known as MDF, is arguably the most robust material for a subwoofer enclosure. Although the wood doesn’t come naturally because it’s manufactured in a factory, it’s durable and has incredible strength. You don’t need to worry about weather changes or warping with MDFs.
MDF is made of multiple pieces of wood glued together to produce a rigid enclosure. MDF has a scattered grain pattern, and that’s why it absorbs sound so well. It doesn’t allow the sound to resonate, which is why it’s more preferred to other wood types.
While MDF is not expensive, it’s way too heavy, so carrying it from place to place can be difficult.
2. Pine Wood
Pine is a hardwood and another great choice for subwoofer boxes. Although it may not perform to the level of MDF, it does well to regulate vibrations and sound output. It’s also less prone to tonal changes, making listening to sound balanced.
In addition, this wood is sound absorbent and strong. It’s a fantastic candidate for building a subwoofer enclosure; if you intend to make a sub box instead of buying already-made.
3. Baltic Birch Plywood
Baltic Birch Plywood is another type of plywood, almost similar to MDF. Baltic Birch Plywood is an excellent alternative to MDF, as it’s rich in density, straightforward to work on, and quick to drill holes.
Baltic Birch Plywood costs more than typical plywoods but is better constructed than the latter. It ensures you get the best sound clarity with minimal distortion. Above all, it’s highly durable and can contain the vibrations coming from the drivers.
Unlike solid woods, Baltic birch plywood won’t distort sounds or alter their clarity. Despite being dense, it’s soft, which is why the speakers reflect the sound quality clearly.
4. Plywood
Plywood is another fantastic option for a subwoofer box. However, it doesn’t mean that it will perform lesser than MDF. The density and thickness of plywoods are less than MDF; therefore, they weigh less.
Plywood guarantees consistent performance and improves the bass produced. Plywood is durable, but if you find any defect in the material, it would be best to return it because there’s a tendency that it will hamper the low frequency.
5. Particle Board
Particleboards or chipboards are made of scraps of different woods. They are less dense than MDF and Baltic Birch Plywood, therefore, not heavy to carry.
Despite its low strength, particleboard offers one of the best acoustic performances. It cushions the effects of distortion and maintains a steady vibration level. Unlike some materials here, you can strengthen particleboards by adding more materials to them.
Wood Thickness for a Subwoofer Box
The wood thickness for a subwoofer box depends on the size. For 8″ subs, ½” is okay. Above 8″ requires a minimum thickness of ¾.” The thicker the box, the less resonant it becomes [1]. Therefore, the clarity won’t be affected or distorted.
Our technical team advises that you use these wood materials discussed here, especially MDF and Birch, if you intend to construct the box yourself. You should also use 4×8 MDF or Birch sheets.
FAQ
What kind of plywood do you use for a subwoofer box?
The kind of plywood you should use for a subwoofer box is MDF. While it’s dense and heavy, it’s soft, guaranteeing better sound clarity and deep bass. It’s strong enough to accommodate the vibrations coming from the speaker’s woofers.
Is plywood good for a subwoofer box?
Definitely, plywood is good for a subwoofer box. It’s durable, relatively light, and suitable to use. Plywood also offers great value for money.
Conclusion
Looking at these options, it’s tough choosing the best wood for subwoofer boxes because they all have great features. While their density and thickness differentiate them, they are great options to minimize resonance, tonal changes and improve bass clarity. Our experts advise that you choose carefully the one that suits your sub best.
For more subwoofer products, you can also check the pages below:
