Getting into DIY (1 Viewer)

[MikePenn]

Okay, so I'm thinking of trying to build a set of speakers. I've never done anything like this before, and I don't have access to a lot of tools. I'd be willing to purchase some basics (ie soldering iron, wood glue, clamps, etc... maybe a dremel), but I live in an an apartment and am on a fixed budget, so I'm really limited in what I could get.
I'd also like the whole project to cost less than $200.
Is this possible? And what are the chances of me screwing things up and making a speaker that sounds terrible??
And, generally speaking do kits sound better than mass market stuff at an equivalent price (maybe I should just buy some jbl n26's?)?
I was looking at a the dayton br-1 kit at parts express. Any thoughts?
I also know that www.speakerpage.com has some well regarded kits - could they be constructed without a lot of expensive tools?
Any input/suggested reading would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Chris Tsutsui]

I'd look into buying a prefab cabinet and then putting in some drivers and assembling the crossover.

I think a simple 2-way speaker would be a good start, and should be easy with a little research or purchase of a DIY book.

An easier route would be to buy a kit and just do the assembly yourself. Partsexpress's shipping costs arn't cheap but I know they sell cabinets.

I doubt the speakers will turn out terrible as it'll more be a matter of them making sound or not. Just as long as you can follow directions and not try to jerry rig anything. I think a $200 budget on some 2-ways can easily yield speakers better than the n26. Of course there'll be a little labor and research involved.