Recommend a DIY computer sub and amp < $150 total (1 Viewer)

[Joseph_S]

It's time to give my computer some bass. I'd prefer to go the DIY route unless there is a more cost-efficient alternative since I'm only willing to spend $150. The box needs to be relatively small, preferably less than 1 cu ft external, 1.5 absolute max; it's going by my feet under a desk. It will probably be ported and stuffed with polyfill. Decent sound quality is a must. For comparison, I've heard the Klipsch Pro Media 2.1 setup, but its sub doesn't play low enough to suit me. I've been looking at a 100W Dayton plate amp for $75 (SA100) and a Tang Band 8 for $52.60 (W8-740C) both from partsexpress.com. Also been eyeing the Elemental Designs Eu-700 at $50. I just want something that will play deep bass at least down to 30 Hz and still sound good. What would everyone recommend I get?

Sorry it won't let me post the links to those items.

 

[John Garcia]

Why not just pick one of these up?

 

[Joseph_S]

Wow that thing is a lot bigger than I was wanting, but for the price and not having to build a box, I'd be willing to sacrifice the leg room. Depth is the main problem. I was thinking of turning it sideways to make it an inch less deep. The 10 and 12 both have the same width which would mean the same depth if I turned them sideways. The 12 is looking awfully attractive for $166.52 shipped...a month from now though. If I'm not going to be able to stretch my legs, then it's going to be because I have a big ol sub down there so I guess it's worth the wait and definitely worth the extra $25 or so. One question though: Will my computer be safe sitting 3-4 inches away from this monster firing into it?

 

[John Garcia]

That close to the computer, I'd say would not be something I'd be comfortable with. So that changes things a bit - you may want to expand your search to shielded subs, which is going to limit you quite a bit.

 

[Joseph_S]

How far away would it need to be to be safe? I just realized that I could put it under my bed next to the computer and still keep my leg room. I can't believe I didn't think of that before. There's exactly 16" of clearance under my bed so it'll barely fit. The sub could be up to 6 feet away under my bed. Man I feel like an idiot for not thinking of that in the first place.

 

[John Garcia]

That would be better