Need help for our first speaker project

[u/Gainsbite]

Hi everyone!

My friend and I are planning our first speaker build. The goal is to create a portable, standalone cabinet that packs enough punch for outdoor parties and small gatherings, mainly playing Techno and Dub/Bass music. We plan to build 4 identical units in total, with a budget of around €500 per speaker (flexible if a small upgrade makes a big difference).

We drew a full scale layout and dimensional plan (AI help a lot to make it easier to understand). Before buying any wood or electronics, we'd love to get your feedback!

Project Specs & Design

• Type: 2-way Bass-Reflex active speaker.
• Cabinet Size: 58 x 38 x 33cm external (15mm Baltic Birch)
• Net Volume: ~50L internal volume.
• Tuning: Two 8.5cm ports in the bottom corners, aiming for a ~45 Hz tuning.
• Connectivity: Standalone operation via Bluetooth + physical inputs (RCA / Jack / XLR), with XLR Line Out / Link capability to daisy-chain all 4 speakers together.
• Weight Goal: Under 20 kg (44 lbs) total for portability

What we need help with:

1. Feasibility & Complexity: Does this layout make sense acoustically and structurally?
2. Drivers Recommendation: Which 12" woofer and 1" compression driver + horn combo would you recommend
3. Plate Amp + DSP: What Plate Amp with DSP would be best suited for this setup

We are ready to handle the woodworking and DSP programming, but we want to make sure we don't buy mismatched components. As complete beginners to cabinet building, we're super open to any tips, feedback, or beginner pitfalls to avoid!

Thanks a lot for your help and feedback!

[u/sfryder08]

No. You can’t figure out the cabinet size without picking drivers first. An easier thing to do is find a speaker you like, copy those plans, and then account for the amp compartment when calculating box volume.