Passive Speakers, Portable Speakers and More! Guide to Buying ...

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Hey guys, so here's my first post on Instructables!

So this isn't much of a tutorial, but more of a guide to buying parts for building portable speakers. Over the past 4 months I've been putting a lot of time into research and development into making handheld portable bluetooth speakers. As a result I've acquired a good bit of knowledge on the topic. So I've made this post to basically share my ideas and knowledge and hopefully help all of you guys build yours :)

Short Bio: I'm a 16 year old aspiring industrial/automotive designer from Ireland. Electronics isn't my main field, so this has been quite an educational adventure for me.

I want to make this Instructable to be communal. If anyone has any wisdom/knowledge/interesting things to share/suggestions, share them below please! Lets all work together to get a better understanding of portable speakers :)

When it comes to sourcing electronics, your only hope is buying from China. Yes, it is possible to buy elsewhere, but it costs significantly more. The most practical and safe site to use is Aliexpress. Other sites that I buy from include Ebay, DX.

Despite parts being very cheap from China, there are drawbacks/risks too. Eg. buying knock offs of original products (which isn't always a bad thing), products never arriving, products not as described, and products having little to no specifications included.

If you live in Europe and other far away lands, shipping can often take up to a month, so be sure you know what you're buying and have everything planned out beforehand.

So below I've just included some useful, very good value for money parts that I can recommend trying out:

Speakers:

36mm 4ohm 3W Speakers: http://www.aliexpress.com/item/10pcs-3W-4-Ohm-40mm...

These are pretty great speakers. Good build quality, very good high to mid frequencies, and pretty decent low frequency range too, I can hit about 100hz before it starts to fade out (Tested in a 160mmx50mmx50mm ported enclosure with 4 speaker drivers). In terms of power they're pretty underpowered. I can only achieve clean sound up to about 2W before it starts to distort.

Overall they're the best generic '3w 4ohm 36mm' speakers I've bought, I would recommend, but they're not ideal for powerful builds.

10W 38mm 8ohm Speakers: http://www.ebay.ie/itm/?ssPageName=STR...

These are pretty excellent. They were originally used in LG TV's, so they're definitely reliable. These are really high quality speakers. Great build quality. High frequencies aren't so strong on these, but they're still pretty good. Low frequencies are alright too, but the speakers don't move under around 65hz, whereas the speakers above would move right down to 35hz. These are really excellent speakers, but I wouldn't recommend them for portable battery powered systems because they're 8 Ohms instead of 4.

Bose Soundlink Mini Speaker Driver Knockoffs:

http://hifispeaker.en.alibaba.com/product/...

Amplifier:

This seems like pretty much the best amplifier that runs off 5V: http://www.ebay.ie/itm/?ssPageName=STR...

Charging Circuit:

(5V 1 Amp Input, charges 1 cell li ion batteries to 4.2V) http://www.ebay.ie/itm/?ssPageName=STR...

Bluetooth:

Found these modules a couple of days ago. They have bluetooth 4.0, connectors for function keys and an LED, and its super compact at just 30x30mm. I've bought a few of them so I'll let you know how they go once I try them out :) http://detail..com/offer/.html?spm=0.0.0.0.A15aiJ

If you're familiar at all with mini portable speaker systems, you'll know that getting passive radiators/subwoofers is pretty much impossible. After a crap tonne of looking around for nearly a year, I managed to bulk buy a load of them from manufacturers in China through an agent. I now have them for sale on my eBay store!

I have stock of every passive radiator and speaker in the image above. Simply hit me a message if you don't see the exact item you're looking for on eBay :)

** Note that I may be out of stock on the eBay listing. That's simply because I have very low monthly eBay selling limits.. If you want more stock than what's below, or if its out of stock, just drop me a message on eBay, gmail, Facebook or Instructables and you can buy them off me through PayPal :) **

Classic Flat Passive Radiators:

http://www.ebay.ie/itm/?ssPageName=STR...

http://www.ebay.ie/itm/?ssPageName=STR...

http://www.ebay.ie/itm/?ssPageName=STR...

http://www.ebay.ie/itm/?ssPageName=STR...

http://www.ebay.ie/itm/?ssPageName=STR...

Soundlink Mini Design:

http://www.ebay.ie/itm/?ssPageName=STR...

Passive Radiators with frame:

http://www.ebay.ie/itm/?ssPageName=STR...

http://www.ebay.ie/itm/?ssPageName=STR...

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Yidi.

Bose 40mm Soundlink Mini drivers:

http://www.ebay.ie/itm/?ssPageName=STR...

Bose 48mm Soundlink 3 drivers:

http://www.ebay.ie/itm/?ssPageName=STR...

I also have several other variations of the classic flat passive radiators, if the ones above don't match what you're looking for, send me a message and I can show you the other passive radiators I also have in stock :)

So there's no doubting that the Bose Soundlink Mini has a crazy amount of bass and power for its size, and I believe that its a product that we should really look at for inspiration.

Below are some specs I found on it off a Chinese forum. I believe they are correct but there's a small chance that they're not.

1. MCU: Motorola 16F723A

2. Bluetooth module : CSR 57H687CG

3. AD: AKM ET

4. DA: Cirrus Logic CS-DZZ

5. Power Management Chip : TPS Ti

6. Amplifier : TPA 2 * 10W with 12V

7. PSU: 12V 0.833A

8. Battery : 7.4V-2.23A / 17Wh

Notice how the Amp runs off 12V but the battery is 7.4. Im guessing this was achieved with a step up converter. But from what I know they're not very efficient.. Does anybody have an explanation for why Bose chose to step up the voltage? If so explain in the comments :)

(Active Speaker and Passive Speaker knock-offs available to buy at the links on the previous steps)

Also here's a cool video of the Soundlink Mini without its front panels

So far I've built 6 prototype speakers, no.7 on the way! Does anyone want tutorials for anything else? If so comment below!

I want to make this Instructable to be communal. If anyone has any wisdom/knowledge/interesting things to share/suggestions, share them below please! Lets all work together to get a better understanding of portable speakers :)

If you want to be kept up to date on my speaker projects and more, you can follow me over here: https://www.facebook.com/BL.car.design.and.rendering

Wireless Sound System: Bose SoundTouch

Some say “Bose or bust” thanks to the brand’s incredible reputation in home audio. The Bose SoundTouch is a classic space-saving audio device. Along with dedicated remotes featuring assignable shortcut buttons, the SoundTouch supports Bluetooth streaming in addition to WiFi, allowing it to stream audio beyond built-in music sources like Sirius XM and Spotify. The entry-level SoundTouch 10 is a great deal, offering full, rich sound that fills the room. You can also choose from the SoundTouch 20 and 30. If you want a powerfully compact speaker to fill larger rooms, go with the 30! The new Bose Skill for Alexa also allows you to enjoy hands-free voice control of your SoundTouch using an Alexa-enabled device. You should also check out the Bose SoundLink Revolve+.

Wireless Sound System: JBL Pulse 3

This is ideal for backyard parties by the pool. While most people seek out wireless speakers for their ability to go with them from room to room, the portability ups the risk of accidents! The JBL Pulse 3 is your answer to drops in the pool or getting left out in the rain thanks to its IPX7 waterproof housing. Other notable features include the 360-degree sound with 360-degree light show and built–in rechargeable battery that delivers up to 12 hours of playtime. You can expect supreme sound quality and a noise and echo-canceling speakerphone that allows you to take calls from the device with a touch of a button.

Sony 7.2 Channel Home Theater AV Receiver

Sony is an electronic power house, so it comes as no surprise that the brand puts out quality home audio products. For theatrical surround sound in your home, whether you’re looking for a simple two-channel setup or a full-fledged 7.2 channel system, wired or wireless, the STR-DN delivers. You’ll hear sound from all directions with max 7.1.2 surround sound, making the system perfect for movie nights or entertaining in style. And along with the high-resolution audio creating immersive sound, the system incorporates wireless multi-room and front surround, making flexibility of your audio environment incredibly accessible. Check out these helpful hints on home theater setup.

Theater Sound System: LG Sound Bar SK10Y

Brands have answered consumers’ needs for more minimal home audio designs without sacrificing sound quality, and LG’s Sound Bar SK10Y is not to be missed. Providing powerful surround sound, this is the ideal product for home theater sound without sacrificing space. Along with Dolby Atmos support, High-Res Audio certification and Chromecast compatibility, there are plenty of features to rave about—not to mention the partnership with audio experts Meridian Audio to bring you surround sound that soundbars have never accomplished before. It’s also the largest soundbar LG has ever produced, measuring 65 inches wide. The SK10Y comes with a wireless, 15-liter, front-firing subwoofer as well.

Bose 151 SE Environmental Speakers

Deck out your deck with these environmental speakers from Bose, featuring a full stereo sound over a wide listening area. The weather-resistant speakers have been tested to withstand snow, rain, salt and extreme temperatures, and can be mounted horizontally or vertically with included brackets/hardware. The small and sleek look keeps them out of sight, blending easily into your environment. Inside each speaker you’ll find 2-1/2-inch full-range drivers that promise full stereo sound across a much wider area than conventional outdoor speakers.

Yamaha YHT-UBL Home Theater Sound System

This 5.1-channel surround sound system from Yamaha combines the best of both worlds: an AV received and a 5.1 compact speaker package. The system comes with compact black gloss speakers. The center channel and satellite speakers feature 2-3/4-inch full-range cones, which ensures your room isn’t taken over with major bulk like other systems. For the bass lovers, you can expect a compact subwoofer that has a 6-1/2-inch cone and is rated at 100 watts. You’ll also get six HDMI inputs and one HDMI output, one optical audio, two coaxial audio, four analog audio and four composite video inputs. There is also a single composite video output. Purchase MusiCas wireless speakers for around your home, which the receiver supports, so you can have a multi-room audio experience. Want a designated movie room? Here’s how to soundproof it.

Wireless Sound System: Sonos Play:1

Sonos is quickly catching up to the reputation of Bose, offering various high-quality audio options. The Sonos Play:1 is the perfect mini device to tuck on a shelf for rich sound that fills the room. Because it’s humidity resistant, you can bring it in the backyard while you’re gardening or in the bathroom while you shower. The speaker is wall or stand mountable, streams over Wifi (not Bluetooth) and can work as a Sonos home theater rear speaker (just buy two!).

Bose Lifestyle 650 Home Entertainment System

You can’t really be surprised Bose has made the list so many times! The look of AV technology can be just as important as the sound it puts out, and for that, there is this home entertainment system from Bose. The Lifestyle 650 is a 5.1 surround sound home theater system featuring a speaker for the center that comes in the form of a 21-inch soundbar that houses five precision speakers. OmniJewel satellite speakers, small but mighty wireless speakers with a 360-degree sound field, serve as the front left/right and surround left/right. And for the ultimate bass, there’s the 12.8-inch-high wireless Acoustimass bass module.

Sonos 5.1 Home Theater Sound System

This isn’t your traditional home theater system! In fact, it’s a multi-room wireless speaker system, with no receiver or wires to be found. It is, to say the least, the future of smart home technology. We are undoubtedly moving more and more away from systems that are one-dimensional, so it makes sense that Sonos would capitalize on a versatile home theater system design. The wireless speaker system can double as a 5.1 surround sound system, putting together the 3.1 setup using either a PLAYBASE or a PLAYBAR, which can then be paired with a sub. The base or bar will serve as the center, front left and front right speakers, and the sub as the subwoofer. Add surround sound speakers using the Sonos App, which can be: Two PLAY:1s, Two PLAY:3s, Two PLAY:5s (gen2), or a CONNECT:AMP. It’s a pretty customizable system to say the least! Check out this list of home tech products you need.

Definitive Technology BPx

If you’re willing to dole out some serious cash for speakers with crystal clear sound, this luxury audio option is for you. These tower speakers feature user independent control of the subwoofer volume, so they can be adjusted to fit the size of your room. If you like to go loud without the treble frequencies being affected, you’ll get what you want with this product. Even when the room begins to shake, the speakers perform perfectly. Other notable features include the 455-watt subwoofer delivering massive bass and the Dolby Atmos / DTS:X integrated height speaker module for multi-dimensional sound. It should be noted that each tower is sold separately. Check out these 39 awesome home tech products, and one really geeky one!

Klipsch Forte III

For the ultimate bass lover, these floor-standing speakers from Klipsch are sure to impress. Well-built and designed, these speakers offer a clear and intricate mid-high range, as well as a 12-inch subwoofer and a 15-inch passive radiator situated in the back of the speaker to keep low frequencies properly dispersed. Another luxury purchase, Klipsch is known for delivering high-end audio products that live up to their price tag. Be mindful that they’re very heavy, so placement in your living room is key, since you don’t want to move them around.

Samsung HW-K950 Soundbar with Dolby Atmos

Another soundbar that can’t be missed is this topnotch option from Samsung. The sleek design doesn’t sacrifice quality, thanks to the multiple built-in speakers (is 15 enough for you?!) that point up and out, allowing you to feel like you’re smack dab in the middle of a symphony, or beneath a rain storm. The Dolby Atmos-equipped device is designed to bring out even the most subtle sounds, and thanks to the side-firing speakers built in, you’re able to hear crisp audio no matter where you are in the room. What’s especially enticing about the soundbar is that it comes in a curved or straight design, which is ideal for ensuring the product fits with the design of your TV—making it true to the minimal look that doesn’t take away from the appearance of your living room. You can connect to powerful wireless subwoofers as well, making for the ultimate customizable home theater system. Built-in Bluetooth connectivity allows you to stream and play music wirelessly from your , laptop or other Blutetooth-enabled device. You can expect a system that offers nine channels (5.1.4), including the five standard surround channels, four “overhead” channels (via speakers designed to bounce sound off the ceiling) and a bass channel.

KEF LS50 Wireless Sound System

If you want the most inconspicuous speakers to tuck right into your decor, get these wireless bookshelf speakers that have just about every input imaginable. Along with an aesthetically pleasing compact design, they offer incredible sound quality and are super user-friendly since all you have to do is plug in the speakers and turn on the music. You can connect wirelessly via dual-band WiFi connectivity or Bluetooth 4.0, as well as wired via an asynchronous USB Connection, digital (TOSLINK) input, or an RCA analog input. You may also be interested in these 9 simple tips for faster home WiFi.

Q Acoustics BT3

Stylish and compact, these speakers from Q Acoustics feature Bluetooth capability, a remote control, a 3.5mm input, a digital optical input and active speakers. Does it get more digitally integrated than that? The sound quality isn’t sacrificed either, putting out quality sound that evenly covers the entire frequency range. They’re a perfect addition to your bookshelf, and a great alternative to a soundbar. If you want to drown out outside noise while doing work in your office, you might want to consider soundproofing it!

VIZIO SBn-F8M 36

For those looking for supreme performance in a soundbar without the hefty price tag, try the VIZIO SB. It has an adequate array of inputs including Bluetooth. It will also decode Dolby as well as DTS. After a seamless set-up, you can expect crystal clear sound with less than 1 percent total harmonic distortion, virtual overhead sound and room-shaking bass with the wireless subwoofer. Did you know a VIZIO HDTV is cheaper at Walmart than Amazon?

Wireless Sound System: Polk MagniFi Mini

The Polk MagniFi Mini is a perfect companion for your small room needs. An alternative to the size of other soundbars on this list, you won’t believe the sound that comes out of the MagniFi Mini despite its small stature. It offers a mix of notable features, including crystal clear dialogue with Polk Voice Adjust technology, wireless music streaming, optimized movie, music, and Sport EQ settings and a night-mode one button that lowers the bass and increases Voice Adjust without raising the Master volume. If you’re looking for small space ideas, check out these small workshop storage solutions.

Are you interested in learning more about speaker wholesale? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!