Portable Audio Chest

Use an old audio cabinet to build a portable audio chest.

I found an old audio cabinet and storage chest.

Disassemble the audio cabinet and salvage the wood and electronics.

Clean up the electronics.

Measure and mark holes to accommodate speaker drivers.

Cut the holes using a router.

Fasten down the speaker drivers.

Wire the speakers.

Cut tray supports from the salvaged wood and fasten above the drivers.

Build a tray to accommodate the turntable.

Drill holes in the tray to support the springs on the bottom of the turntable.

Make sure the tray is the correct size, then paint it and install.

Inspect the electronics and fasten to a wood support.

Cut a hole in the back side of the chest and install the rear panel.

Connect all the internal wiring.

Test all the electrical functions.

Make a face plate from the salvaged wood. Compare to the plastic face plate and make appropriate measurements.

Cut the face plate and fit to the receiver.

Add dials to the face plate and fasten the unit to the lid of the chest.

Cut some fabric and attach between the turntable tray and the receiver to cover the wires.

Paint and stain the remaining raw wood.

Print labels for the dials and reverse them on the x-axis, so they read backward. Use a toner printer, not inkjet. Tape in place and apply a solvent, like acetone. Push against the paper with moderate pressure. The ink should adhere to the wood.

Brush a protective coat over the wood to preserve the ink and finish.

Drop the needle on some vinyl.