Model 19 cab - fabrication cost est.?

[robertbartsch]

I've been collecting components for the construction of a pair of Model 19 clones and I'm fairly close to the box construction phase.

Has anyone had a cabnet maker construct the Model 19 boxes according to the blue prints that are provided below?


Vintage Altec Lansing Model 19 Cabinet Plans


What is a good estimate of what I might expect to pay; I'm assuming $700 - $900 in cost for the two boxes. Is this in the ball park?

Thx.

[GM]

well, I can only guess based on some custom order pricing from a then local cabinet shop that specialized in kitchen, etc. cabinets that charged 2x their highest price lineal inch to cover custom veneered 3/4" marine grade ply, but the only pricing I found in a quick Google search was from 2006 at $15.5/inch, so $31 x 30 = $930/cab.

Since the M19 uses somewhat less expensive 3/4" veneered MDF, I'd think twice about paying more than ~ 0.7 x 930 = ~$657/cab and if you choose one of their high volume panel materials, then only ~ $465/cab since cost will be mostly labor/profit.

Of course it's the shop's job to find the most you're willing to pay, so it will be interesting to hear what quotes you get in these economically trying times.

GM

[robertbartsch]

Does anyone know the person on this forum named "Gamalot"? Earl from the other Lansing board said he hangs here and is a cabinet maker who lives in NY.

How does one send a private message to this forum member?

Thx...

[Panomaniac]

You can send him a PM by going to his member page.
Hostboard - View Profile: gamalot
It also tells you where he lives.

He may or may not see the message. He has not been on the board for a year.

[robertbartsch]

Thanks Panomaniac...

[Carl Bill]

I have to assume you are no where near Tulsa, Oklahoma?

I have a vintage pair of 19's (1978) and I am working toward speaker projects here. I have a set of 19 plans I got when I worked at Altec in OKC in 1980. I actually assembled many 19's at Altec in OKC and know them well. I also have a complete set of 19 parts to make another pair, but I have other projects on my mind at this time.

I always thought, that if I were to build another pair for myself, I would do a few things different from the factory model. Use better materials for the base and top/bottom piece (they are actually exactly the same) and use plastic laminate to cover both instead of the fake vinyl leather stuff. Bolt them together with a few more bolts instead of only 2 bolts and a few sheetrock screws holding it all together. Seal the joints with caulk, use some black fabric to cover the insulation exposed at the port. Paint the bare wood around the port with flat black paint, etc...

I am planning on getting the barn cleared out for some speaker building this Summer, so come by and let's talk about building a pair of 19's. Sounds like fun if you are near by and in no hurry. Bill is only 90 minutes away in OKC if you want some new drivers too!

Walnut or Oak? I think the veneer plywood is the expensive part. I assume you can go with MDF and buy veneer to cover the whole thing?? That would be my weak point. Never did much veneer work, but I am sure it could be figured out.

Sounds like a fun project.

By the way, I used to work for beer until my doctor told me to stop drinking beer. Now it is vodka and soda. But still cheap compared to market!