Creating Your Own Acoustic Stompbox Amp: A Step-by-Step Guide
Hello everyone, it's Peter Sesselmann here, and welcome to my second vlog! In this installment, I'll be guiding you through the process of building your very own acoustic stompbox amp. Last time, we talked about the best amps for stomp boxes and guitars, and I received a lot of feedback from viewers who wanted to know more about creating their own amps. So, let's dive into the world of DIY acoustic stompbox amps!
Before we get started, here's a list of the basic components you'll need:
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Subwoofer: Look for second-hand subwoofers, often available on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or eBay. Car subwoofers, especially 12-volt ones, are great for portability, making them ideal for busking.
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Tweeter: You'll need a tweeter to handle the higher frequencies. Pick up an affordable one from an electronics store. Piezo tweeters are a good option as they don't require additional capacitors.
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Amplifier: Search for used car stereo amps with subwoofers that are up for sale. Bridging the channels can double the power output.
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Mixer: A 12-volt mixer is necessary for connecting your instruments. Look for options that can run on battery power.
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Cables and Connectors: RCA to Jack cables for connecting the mixer to the amp, as well as appropriate speaker and power cables.
Now, let's walk through the process:
1. Disassemble the Subwoofer: Carefully disassemble the subwoofer to access the inside of the box. Remove any unnecessary components from the enclosure to make space for the new setup.
2. Install the Tweeter: Using a hole saw and drill, create a hole in the box for the tweeter. Make sure it's sized correctly for a snug fit. Add a bit of foam inside the box to dampen vibrations and improve sound quality.
3. Wiring the Tweeter: Solder the tweeter's positive and negative leads to appropriate connectors or use slip-on connectors if available. Thread the wires through the hole and connect them to the tweeter.
4. Prepare the Amplifier: If you're using a bridgable amplifier, bridge the channels to increase power output. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for bridging.
5. Connecting the Mixer: Connect the mixer's power cord to the amplifier's power input. Use the same battery to power both the mixer and the amp for convenience. Additionally, use RCA to Jack cables to connect the mixer's output to the amplifier's input.
6. Mounting Components: Mount the amplifier and mixer to the box securely. You can use screws or Velcro to attach them. Consider positioning the mixer on top of the box for easy access during performances.
7. Final Touches: Attach the power source, which could be a 12-volt battery or an appropriate power supply, to the setup. Make sure to connect the positive and negative terminals correctly.
8. Testing the Sound: With everything set up, plug in your instruments and give your DIY acoustic stompbox amp a test run. Adjust the settings on the mixer and amplifier to achieve the desired sound quality.
And there you have it, your very own DIY acoustic stompbox amp! This setup is perfect for busking, practicing at home, or small gigs. Remember, while this guide provides the basics, feel free to get creative and customize your amp as you see fit. Happy playing!