Hoffman Amplifiers Tube Amplifier Forum

Other Stuff => Cabinets-Speakers => Topic started by: Direwolf on October 08, 2009, 06:12:35 pm

Title: Baffle thickness for Tweed Champ
Post by: Direwolf on October 08, 2009, 06:12:35 pm

I'm planning a 5F1 and after doing some research, I'm corn-fused. Anybody know what thickness was used for the baffles in original Tweed Champs? I've heard both 1/4" and 3/8". Doesn't seem to me that 1/4" would hold up even though it's not a high powered amp. I can get 1/4" locally but haven't been able to find 3/8". Any help would be appreciated, and if you've got suggestions, let 'em rip!

Thanks,

Title: Re: Baffle thickness for Tweed Champ
Post by: Dynaflow on October 08, 2009, 08:03:18 pm

 I'd bet its 3/8", 1/4 would wobble like a one legged maytag on spin. I used 3/8" on a small tweed deluxe and its fine. Can't find 3/8" ply? Thats what I'd use, most of the home depot's have it some even in what they call handi panels which are like 2'x4' sizes which is what I used.

Regards,

Dyna

Title: Re: Baffle thickness for Tweed Champ
Post by: Direwolf on October 08, 2009, 08:31:25 pm

Well, I can get regular plywood in 3/8" but I was trying to get Baltic Birch. If I had to bet I'd put my money on 3/8", too. I'll do some more looking tomorrow. I think Hobby Lobby might carry it, but they're 30 miles away.

Title: Re: Baffle thickness for Tweed Champ
Post by: PRR on October 08, 2009, 08:45:39 pm

For a 6" or 8" speaker in a small box without pretentions of "fidelity"? Sure, 1/4" will work, assuming screws hold. In junk sheathing, that's dubious. Quality plywood like you are talking about, not sent out for a 157-city road-tour, will be fine.

Title: Re: Baffle thickness for Tweed Champ
Post by: Direwolf on October 08, 2009, 09:47:01 pm

I think I'll go with the 3/8". I should be able to get some at Hobby Lobby. I'll be screwing the baffle into cleats at the 4 corners and although the 1/4" may do just fine, why risk it.

Title: Re: Baffle thickness for Tweed Champ
Post by: Boots Deville on October 08, 2009, 09:52:37 pm

I just checked the website of the place I get baltic birch from - no 3/8", but they do have 1/8" and 1/4".  If your source carries the same, you could laminate 1/8" + 1/4" to get you there.

Title: Re: Baffle thickness for Tweed Champ
Post by: Direwolf on October 08, 2009, 10:25:18 pm

Both Rockler and Woodcraft have 3/8" Baltic Birch plywood. I'd rather get it locally, though, if possible. If I can't get it at Hobby Lobby, I might just glue some up.

Title: Re: Baffle thickness for Tweed Champ
Post by: tablewine on October 09, 2009, 11:14:03 pm

A small speaker, 8 inch or less, can be set in a baffle of solid 'hobby type' bass or poplar wood to great effect. It  increases the bass response and makes the little box come alive.

Title: Re: Baffle thickness for Tweed Champ
Post by: Direwolf on October 09, 2009, 11:43:17 pm

Cool, I've got some basswood. I think it's 1/4" though. I use it for scroll saw pieces. Can't hurt to experiment.

Title: Re: Baffle thickness for Tweed Champ
Post by: tubesornothing on October 10, 2009, 12:40:35 am

Once you bolt a speaker to it, you will be surprised how stiff 1/4" ply can get.  For a small combo, I'd give it a shot.

Title: Re: Baffle thickness for Tweed Champ
Post by: Direwolf on October 11, 2009, 09:09:29 am

You know, that hadn't occurred to me. It's only an ~11x12 baffle and with an 8" speaker bolted to it, I bet it's pretty sturdy.

Title: Re: Baffle thickness for Tweed Champ
Post by: FYL on October 11, 2009, 02:46:35 pm

Quote

Anybody know what thickness was used for the baffles in original Tweed Champs?

Fender used 1/4" birch plywood.

Title: Re: Baffle thickness for Tweed Champ
Post by: Direwolf on October 12, 2009, 10:14:22 pm

Thanks, everybody. I'll try with the 1/4" BB. If it craps out I'll go to 3/8".