How to make computer speakers with your own hands

Speakers are an acoustic system and come in a variety of sizes. From a huge music center to a portable small battery-powered speaker. This device is quite simple and can be assembled at home.

Acoustic system design

Typically, speakers consist of several speakers, which in turn consist of several magnets (usually two). The operation of the magnets is controlled by an amplifier that operates at audio frequencies.

Speakers are divided into two types: passive and active. In passive devices, the amplification element does not require additional power. The simplest passive system is regular headphones. Active devices require additional power to function.

DIY computer speakers

In order to assemble a PC speaker system you will need:

• Speaker 3W (from 2 pcs.).
• Mini-Jack 3.5mm connector (it is standard for connecting speakers or headphones and is very common).
• Audio amplifier. It is recommended to use digital RAM 8403.

REFERENCE. Instead of a digital amplifier, you can use an analog amplifier with transistors, but then you will have to use a DAC, and selecting the necessary digital-to-analog converter is a rather lengthy thing that requires special calculations.At its core, the RAM 8403 is an amplifier with an ADC, which makes it easier to assemble homemade speakers.

• Toggle switch for powering the system.
• Connecting wires.
• USB cable for power.
• Heat-shrinkable tubes for insulation.
• USB plug.
• Material for assembling the case (plywood, glue, screws, etc.).

You will also need tools:

1. Soldering iron.
2. Glue (for gluing wires).
3. Knife (for cleaning wires).
4. Jigsaw (for working with the body).
5. Drill (for working with the body).
6. Tools for measuring and marking (pencil, ruler, compass, etc.).
7. Cutters (for wires).
8. Sandpaper (for processing the body).

Making a “bun”

In order to ensure the highest quality sound, it is necessary to make a spacious and closed enclosure so that air circulates in it. This will make the sound deeper and richer.

We make the case

Chipboard, fiberboard or plywood will be used for the body. You can also use textolite or OSB. You should not choose plates that are too thick, as this will make the structure too heavy.

In order for the speakers to fit, you need to correctly measure the diameter and circumference, and then cut the holes on the front panel.

ATTENTION. You should pay attention to fixation, since the speaker housing is often subject to vibration. In addition to glue, it is better to use corners with self-tapping screws. This way the design will be more reliable and will last longer, and it will also be possible to disassemble the device and then reassemble it.

On the rear panel there should be places for the power cable, connection cable and a separate connector for the power switch.

Let's take care of a good power supply

There are several basic options for creating a power supply in a circuit.If the amplifier is a complex device with an ADC and an adapter (such as RAM 8403), then it can be powered from a simple USB. This makes it easier to interact and work with your PC. If there is a separate power supply, then you should carefully select components according to consumption and output power.

ATTENTION. All wires and cables must be chosen at the optimal length, since wires that are too long can get in the way and cause inconvenience. In this case, the cables should easily reach all the necessary connectors. The optimal length of mini Jack and USB wires ranges from 1 to 5 meters.

Amplifier and power supply

To assemble a home audio system, you need to connect the loudspeakers (speakers) with an amplifier and a connector. The mini-Jack plug has three channels (left, right and common). They are separated by black stripes on the connector itself and are located mirrored from the middle.

On the board itself there are connectors for the wire (L-Left G-Central R-Right). Observing the order, you should connect the mini-Jack connector with the wires to the amplifier board.

Then, observing the polarity, you should connect the speakers to the amplifier. The speaker locations on the device are designated as Rout and Lout.

IMPORTANT. When connecting speakers, remember the polarity

This device will be powered via USB, since 5 volts is sufficient for the amplifier. When soldering the power cable, you should also remember the polarity. It is also important not to forget to connect the toggle switch from the speaker power supply through one of the wires, otherwise the device will be powered every time it is connected via USB.

After all the parts are assembled, you should use heat shrink in the bends, namely on the mini Jack, the power switch and the wires that connect to the speakers.

Main columns

After the main device is assembled, it should be placed in the previously assembled housing. Assemble the speakers carefully, as there is a risk of damaging the wires or connector.

ATTENTION. The RAM 8403 has a gain control knob. It should be displayed on the front or side panel of the device.

Sometimes, to improve sound quality, the front panel (where the speakers go) is covered with fabric.