HTPC in Onkyo style

[_ferry_]

Hey guys!

I know i know, it's been a while since my last post here. I spend a lot of time on hobbies but casemodding was on a hold. I spend quite some time on hobbies like airbrushing, electronics, fixing/servicing my VW beetle, stuff like that.

Project Alien Hopspital is still on a hold, I hope I can finish it someday, but meanwhile i started a new casemod. Actually started yesterday :) The reason for this mod is that i'm moving out to my own house in about a year, (the house has to be build first) So in the meantime I try to prepare as much as possible by building things like LED Lights, Furniture, decorative items, buying stuff etc.

This casemod is a HTPC, so please, do not expect fancy lights, extreme hardware, stuff like that. It's more budget friendly, and I'll try to use hardware and parts which, sometimes, have been around in my mancave for ages.
The plan is to give it the same looks as my Onkyo Amplifier & CD player. This means a brushed aluminium front, very little buttons, and solid. (the amplifier even has a 5mm thick aluminium front.)

Well, As i said i will generally use old stock or things i can use again.
1 of them is the Cooler Master Praetorian. It's a full aluminium case, and i'll use the removable motherboard tray and backplate.

Let's roll..

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/31Ky484YoucmWWrai2HOIkDG/full.jpg
Part of the stuff i had laying around. If you're wondering what happened to the Praetorian, check this (http://www.bit-tech.net/news/modding/2006/03/10/cooler_master_praetorian_mod/1)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/SiQ24kY3n72uoj6CNqzEl75W/full.jpg
PSone display, might be usefull :)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/oWBXjdVlLXhBVqdEYI45PAC1/full.jpg
First thing to do after disassembly was shortening the case. It was 44cm high, my amplifier is 43,5cm wide. Between the motherboard tray and PSU was some space which was unused. I removed that part, and had to move this rail 1CM upwards. This rail holds the motherboard tray.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/6UYzYTdI2F2wBOWl0BoKdYFp/full.jpg
Here it's done. You can see that the PSU hit's the backplate directly. Original here (http://hardwarelogic.com/articles/reviews/case/Cooler_Master_Praetorian/rear.jpg).

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/JRzDwYEGR3h6hRyjQWvAccCw/full.jpg
Tray is held together in the 2 rails.

After all those years i lost the plate which holds the PSu. Well, lets make a new one. As you can see at the fan on top: I'd also reversed the PSU. The air goes in at the side of the case, instead of the case itself.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/IfUvWuwchUjA96CCGbYX4xNS/full.jpg
Looks good :)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/uUeQjTY3YScib4EnCMEMFuGk/full.jpg
Fits like it was stock :)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/6QIqCSYHlKLTxukCosv4gMbS/full.jpg
A small part was then cut away to create some space for the sidepanel
... ehh... bottom panel which i can bolt into that nut.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/SMOUPDN3xDvku8dcUSER5ZSb/full.jpg
Here I've bend the panel, fits perfectly along the motherboard tray.


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/1wge4T5UZc6mD6bQqw5pIpt3/full.jpg
Then i played a bit with the possible positions of HDD's, optical, pump, radiator, PSone screen etc.
I think it will be something like this. Preferable with the optical in the middle, like my CD player has.

That's it for now. I've made some more progress, but done enough for today. Wasn't sure if the 120mm rad. could handle the CPU (E6600) and VGA(simple ATI x1650). I think it can, maybe not with the lowest temperatures and high OC. But i'm aiming at silence, not speed. Anyway, i have some aluminium cooling profiles and copper HDD coolers. I will combine those to some kind of passive radiator.

[jdbnsn]

Welcome back _ferry_!!!!

[SXRguyinMA]

Nice! I saw Onkyo and thought of old school audio equipment - +sub :D

[_ferry_]

Yeah, the look of the amplifier is very old school, no fancy buttons, small display. I like it.

Well, i have a update of the work i did yesterday evening after doing the topicstart. Don't get your expectations too high, i can't show you a new update every day ;) But this day i can.


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/D0ytZOqBKvHeHU68cKyMNElK/full.jpg
A sheet of aluminium. +/-60x200cm. Got 2 of them... for free :) 1 has already been used for various projects

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/vdddZ7FHYkJn6CIP9F6NDPEr/full.jpg
Made the sidepanel of it. Bend the corners, mounted with 2 screws to see how it fits.

Then... The watercooling, the single 120 radiator might be slightly under dimensioned. Allthough there are all-in-one products based on 120 radiators. I'm used to work with big cases, having space for 360 radiators ;)

Anyway, a collected some more stuff, witch can be useful...

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/Uu5Pl6jPjo3gAI38REyW4t9a/full.jpg
Had to remove a small part of the motherboard tray...

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ad6ABuwQKwdFIO5UaTgw3X5X/full.jpg
So i can fit these. The copper blocks are HDD coolers, got them as a leftover from a PC shop. Finally, got a use for them ;)
The aluminium coolers are from a product i had twice. You can get a virtual cookie by guessing where they came from (brand+product type). I knew i had 2 of them, but it took me 1/4 hour to find the second one ;)
Anyway, they have the same length, and i can connect the 2 copper blocks with a piece of CCFL housing.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/Aj4qpuHctymQCp8ngvzvTiaI/full.jpg
First one fits :) Hacking the hole was quite hard, the panel was +/-5mm thick at certain points. The cutter has a hard time getting through it... and it should be straight without scratches ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/dgH1CoWvfe5EC7rjLWylFVaH/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/JtSvnrhlelrYZN5sovJZGfbt/full.jpg
Second one fits as well. Note they're not perfectly aligned yet. Just hanging in the opening.
I think it's awesome looking. Cooling performance? Dunno... But hey, it looks cool!

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/D2qVcQUPIhljPyTEziACMRLT/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/YcQXhZmG4QoisoLUsWSwBR7h/full.jpg
Mounted with some screws. The standoffs aren't necessary, but they're easier to fit then normal M3 nuts ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/B5ICSWLE46GByj4mPshiztCS/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/tyS1tNjYZJAuzE7AlxV1DHNe/full.jpg
But i'm not allowed to drill holes in it. You'll see the screws on the other side.
So i came up with this. Pretty simple, very effective.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/OzHECiPN0uH1tOW963xnR7jc/full.jpg
And to push the block against the cooling profile i just tighten this screw.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/15BqvbCJkUkeEZK6oCntxzEb/full.jpg
Which adds enough pressure to bend the cooler if i want to.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/pTk0hdmKu138IOOWwFL9S7sw/full.jpg
Fits perfectly. This was more like a prototype, i can finish it with some sanding and build another 3 of them. Should i just leave them like that, or maybe some fancy additions like LED, or maybe acrylic or aluminium connection rods between them?

[AmEv]

I'd suggest having LEDs illuminating the grilles, creating a "barcode"-ish effect. Put the LEDs inside the case, off to the side.


Just do it temporarily, to see if you like it.

[_ferry_]

That would be nice yes, was thinking about it too. and def. will do that. Thinking about a cold white with blue accent lightning scheme. And 1 switch on the front to switch them all on to enter the "showcase mode" ;)
Got the 2nd acrylic clamp finished. Another 2 to go...

Oh, also found another lay out, maybe the best one.
Imaging yoursels 3 HDD's screwed almost against the top panel, and in the middle right beneath them the optical drive. It gives me plenty of space behind the front panel, a CD/DVD tray in the middle. And the space beneath the top panel is enough for 6 HDD's or so. Not that i need that much, so i'll stick to 3 bays. And maybe a smaller one for SSD when i want one in the HTPC.

[d_stilgar]

This build is looking really good.

[diluzio91]

haha... i'm back and loving all the awesome aluminum.

[d_stilgar]

So i can fit these. The copper blocks are HDD coolers, got them as a leftover from a PC shop. Finally, got a use for them ;)
The aluminium coolers are from a product i had twice. You can get a virtual cookie by guessing where they came from (brand+product type). I knew i had 2 of them, but it took me 1/4 hour to find the second one ;)


It looks like they could be from some tuniq hd coolers, but yours look smaller than what I'm looking at here, http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835154005.

Still, love the concept of passive cooling. I hope it works out. I've thought of similar things at times. Zalman had a case that had heat pipe out to fins on the case.

[AmEv]

It's a low-power machine. With a quiet pump, it should be enough.

[_ferry_]

Meanwhile i spend some time to become familiar with the anodisation procces.

Here's a picture of the CD player with the old sidepanel on top. As you can see the sidepanel is slightly brighter:

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/qZDaCcECKJVdkWSahhsYJSmM/full.jpg
The type of aluminium and the way it has been brushed will affect the end result. I know my product can't be a exact copy of the one onkyo used. But i'll try to get it as good as possible.


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/KHre3Vfk73rp1JX5S2PUoQZq/full.jpg
This might be the new front panel. I started with k400 sanding paper. But had some problems with getting a equal finish at all points. So went on with a M3 sanding/skotch bright kinda thing.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ArIegZJWuB7lvAYKbJdXqAhC/full.jpg
Detail shot.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/xh01LVsSXTVbeCEFmiUxcwwZ/full.jpg
Started anodizing with a sample piece. I was worried about the blueish kind of color on it. But it was gone after a while. I had to go for work (This week a 24/7 standby for emergencies) and left the anodisation procces running. So it might ran a bit too long. Don't know if it can run for too long? I expected the amperage would be lower once finished.


Meanwhile i went on with some other parts:

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/Ee1PfRVVFaCwKxQhoihP1DlS/full.jpg
Another bracket has been cut. Picture was taken while filling it down to the exact size. Quite funny, I dropped 1 by accident, and it was directly broken. Although it was 8mm thick and +/- 1,5cm wide. Guess it was some kind of weak spot.


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/6Ckaiq1ZbambsBqDGeT0rM4H/full.jpg
Getting the m3 thread into it

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ZoQwn3awYY8zXjrbP1C1fvi7/full.jpg
And finished after polishing

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/C1k0dWLyD2JHT2id6S7oI8yU/full.jpg
The blocks were made of machine-pressed copper, very uneven, so i first tightened the screws and sanded them down a bit. The remaining space will be filled up with cooling paste ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/fBYdcPOBRQV1rUEHFolcIbWw/full.jpg
The connections were made for 13mm OD hose. I always use 10mm hose with 1/4G push-in connections. Quick, cheap, and i have quite some of them in stock. With this addition a can use the connections and hose i always use

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ZrvZ5xnGNgaR5zwXC5DK4G5Q/full.jpg
Meanwhile the anodisation was done for me. The blue color was gone, and a shiny metal color was there.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/8uNksF4XmRBMrf6y3b7XCzWF/full.jpg
While working i spend some time on the lay-out. It might end up like this, a optical in the center. Like the cd player has. With space for HDD on the left & right side. I think that will be enough. At least there is space for more by making another bracket if i need more capacity.
I ordered a Nanovision MIMO 720F (http://www.mimomonitors.com/products/mimo-720-f-flex-screen-mountable-touchscreen-usb-monitor) which hopefully fits beneath the optical drive. The PSone display has a slightly lower resolution, no digital input, and bummmtrssss... no touch screen. I think that's an awesome addition... Opening winamp/WMP/foobar/whatever on the display and controlling it with the touch screen.


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/JNF4lc6aTaf38sry16H1eeOC/full.jpg
Finished the anodisation procces. The small vertical lines are made by me, to see if it has any scratch protection. It was comparable with other brushed aluminium products.

Need to fine-tune the process a little, anodisation was maybe too long, and the sealing time with boiling water was maybe too short for that.
After anodisation and flushing it had a thin film of .... on it, felt a bit like oil.
And after flushing it with boiling water it came out matte-white, like it was painted with thin layer of white paint. After cleaning it with a sponge it was OK :) Looks good, usable for the front panel.
I think i'll paint the side+top panel, since the top panel is too big to anodize in this set-up. A layer of grey paint with some metallic effect will be fine as well.

[_ferry_]

I hope you guys can handle the speed.. 2'nd update for today ;)

I started with the frame which holds the HDD's and optical.
The frame will be mounted on the left and right side. But first i need the LCD screen to determinate the exact location for this frame. Something for the following updates.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/c3sm70HWRFUdAF9z75zgIRxu/full.jpg
Cut the panel, drilled the holes, and bend the rear side.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/w6Thc41nryGNlaBSinNNctPN/full.jpg
Somewhere like this

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/0zXwAxGw1Ks53C6VRBYkB7Ph/full.jpg
Enough space for the connectors. I want to use 90-degree connectors so the cables can run directly beneath the frame.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/LjdsE96SldkKD8eYyJpoUCCT/full.jpg
Time for anodisation :banana:

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/BOXmsBXsCpwdiDjEAz9eVIoY/full.jpg
7 ampere was a bit too much for this bridge rectifier. Although he could handle it, the heat melted the ... jeah, don't know the english word for it.
Next time a heat sink will be used.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/m3QsEtxaeSmVuMWFQLQWy2Xk/full.jpg
Flushing with water.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/gTe1ptWq2pW2T5uAM97b9E5r/full.jpg
And finished. I'm really happy with the result. It was like a semi test.. A small failure is OK, since it's inside the case. But i want it to be perfect ;)
The feeling when you move your fingernail over the surface is terrible... like a blackboard.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/7X85WxfWhSWGWS71AwJFOFcm/full.jpg
Well. The face says it all... How would you feel after being electrocuted and burned in acid?

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/eK7pZ5WozFOTU3oLixG9D510/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/tgGZjV6UXTaYMGxXsnDu8CIE/full.jpg
Last steps by adding the meshX and HDD's with noise dampers.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/AmOSRjWKK4YRumyDLIUXd3fb/full.jpg
Quick peek from behind. In fact there is place for another frame with 2 HDD's if necessary.

[SXRguyinMA]

looking good!

[d_stilgar]

That's really cool. You're making me jealous because you are doing a bunch of the stuff I wanted to do for a build, like anodizing and making a scratch built case. I really like the fins on the side of the case. I might have to steal that.

[_ferry_]

Ordered some missing parts... only 2 for now :)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ZZKwbH3wdbpAR2xIPstM1VvG/full.jpg
Looks like a tablet,but it's not. A 7" touch screen. Only 1 problem: Which software is good? I was thinking about some kind of "app" to browse files and large buttons for play/pause etc. But the video should be on the TV screen. Windows media center shows it all on the same screen... useless.
Any suggestions on this?

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/CYr2wLIV4ODclnh9Iivlpw0p/full.jpg
Works great, image quality is good. wide viewing angle, especially from above, which is the position we'll be watching it.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/YOFbQ15qUb6BTcKBA4Ap0ahq/full.jpg
Ordered this one as well. Looks (and cools???) better then the one in my workstation. Think i'll swap them out.

[_ferry_]

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ASKkctNUmCTw63k4DH7SY8s6/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/WOt9w17AVNbF8mFlj3pnfKU7/full.jpg
Last ting to do for this frame was getting the optical in place. As you can see i can move the optical for a couple of mm, in 2 directions. Want to be sure that it will allign perfectly with the front panel.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/NiK69XuvuOzN0fI0hs22Zw34/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/hl6ZSR4Whd9PrYb9IoY6wZUp/full.jpg
The 7 inch touchscreen will fit nicely, about 1cm left :)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/JM3nKDm6ZviC5Lk8iu3p7Jmo/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/BHKuL195P0QYQcrm6fR5Lvj8/full.jpg
On the back of the HDD there's enough place left for the powerplug. This build is not planned, just working and designing at the same time. It works faster, but you might points where parts won't fit. Luckily it's all going well.


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/fVdU8gRIQXtqmeTuKtet9pRR/full.jpg
Next thing is the radiator. I wanted to hide the radiator because they're not very stylish. Especially this one, since it has a couple of dents. Anyway, mesh would restrict the airflow. So i decided to make a bracket. This way i can increase the surface area of the mesh, and use the same design for the PSU intake as well :)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/jEal2EOD9gyy9APTuUrSipZP/full.jpg
So lets cut it out

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/czi3zCf4UWjhyIp81VH3OtHS/full.jpg
Filing down to match the exact dimensions.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/NNRu4J4LQ0JZ0xS8jFDpdyEl/full.jpg
And what to do with the remaining parts?

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/uiQNgmuQaJUqlEnqRaRj2ygY/full.jpg\
We should clean it up with the aluminium magnet off course! But i have none, otherwise i would have much more then just 1 large cup ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ACmOvSH79zOLccqjfJglEJeq/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/Z4rwMSFC5S4LdbMmmSvG4oXW/full.jpg
Et voila.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/kSV2IrHxChd5g9YwIvLMi7vV/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/dne9cAz3xlKwpm1mCrTDi6L1/full.jpg
I wanted to cover up the ugly optical drive. This aluminium sheet will do the trick. Here you can see the difference between pre-and-after anodisation.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/m3OpZa9XK5fMRLNng8I9sqB7/full.jpg
And after anodisation. Looks much better, right?

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/BBVXWg44CAobQDonzY0Pawyv/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/1lDZbyuvSjGuUh8DNa3JxqB9/full.jpg
Removed the masking tape, and anodized the bracket.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/h4FwbCNNiREEamIiztgrWkey/full.jpg
And i can put a sheet of mesh into it. No glue or screws necessary, it's clamped between the sidepanel and bracket. As you can see the blank aluminium behind the mesh is visible. I should paint that side.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/AXmeTG22EuUx22kSyOuFwiTN/full.jpg
Overall view.

The cooling block i bought was better looking than my old one. So i decided to swich them:

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/mYAUv7Lged1hlE7JCH0fxjQT/full.jpg
Old.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/kpqevymcUOoYhysbcyT3PdLd/full.jpg
New. Including better cooling paste my stressed temp dropped 10*celcius from 50 to 40. Nice :)

Next job will be the frontpanel
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/hgH2faB5W6yLbSGgka8OJGc2/full.jpg
Probably with the following parts:
- Power button
- eject button
- display on/off button
- power led
- dvd drive
- 7" display
- 1 USB connector
- IR receiver. I might combine that one with the power LED.

[SXRguyinMA]

looking good man! nice work with the aluminum as well, super clean :D

[_ferry_]

Hmm, looks like i'm having a problem with the anodisation:

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/FY0mRy6x5hWFhZga3ht3t3up/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/5U1pkvDyB2nT9G0KnQ7BFuqW/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/qxtFDxYH0gvFNrEE6WWfwTqn/full.jpg
As you can see the aluminium turns very dark, uneven, and well, not the way i want it :(
Does anyone know how this is possible? I was thinking that the acid might has lost power. So i have to mix up a new bath? Last time I bought 2 bottles of 38% acid, and 2 bottles of demiwater. I don't know how long it will last in general?

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/uPjuC97Y2uN77xkGgM7aIqzs/full.jpg
Anyway, i cut the holes in the front panel. Not that this is the base panel, so after this one is done i can finish the second one which will be anodized and glued on top of this one, so you won't see those screws and stuff.
Also send an email to Onkyo repair center, to see if they can provide me a power button and onkyo logo.

[_ferry_]

Continued working on the front. First of all I created a way to mount the LCD screen.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/k2Ry5qj6QBXiwaBE73aHuFHJ/full.jpg
I had a couple of 19" rack blinding panels, strong and thick anodized aluminium. And it was the perfect height for this monitor. Including the mounting holes :)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/XxDEj1bl2LZfDKtn58Naxgkh/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/yA8AOSNWb6N0dhNIMH2HYc6A/full.jpg
4 screws, 4 holes with m3 thread, and a hole for the USB, and we're done!

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/X1j3HQSBSnh4a8pJBXzw2asT/full.jpg
Although the front was going fine, i decided the sheet of aluminium was not strong enough to be a real front panel. So i took another 19" panel to create a new one, this one is +/- 2x thicker, so it won't bend, sounds much more massive, and it's much better when using countersunk screws. Together with the top-front panel it will be as thick as the 5mm front i have on the amplifier.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/X079n2Jk2dxUem7hpqgldwds/full.jpg
Really need to clean up some day....

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/KGNIGZn7otHFqBWKm6HzwLvs/full.jpg
New panel is almost done. Note that i flipped the USB. makes it better aligned with the powerbutton.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/wZcXgehIL7zRwmESI3DH8tYN/full.jpg
Perfect mounting for the LCD.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/1lCqazZWQ6odAhkyXz2aVrWl/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/OEntdWZ3wW8wtOQrdQh950yi/full.jpg
And it fits (although it's not correctly aligned on the photo).

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/AkQleyCrZG6AZE08hRM6JCVS/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/wMpSxSRmo7YZBk1ohA1ReRJe/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/6KjB932lvAZ0G6JG7yoVbsLq/full.jpg
So after removing the tape, and filing down the edges at the bottom of the LCD and dvd slot i got this. The amplifier has those edges as well. And although it's a precision job to do it by hand, it turned out great.

That's it for now. Bought more acid today, hope to fix the PSU bracket soon with some fresh anodisation!

[_ferry_]

Since most of the "rough stuff" has been done, i spend some time on smaller bits and pieces. In general i could describe it as boring parts, like cutting and mounting some aluminium profiles, cut the bottom panel to the right size and stuff like that. So, i havn't got any pictures of those. But i made enough pictures of other steps in this procces:

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/yyf6V3xLoRUAgWC9AgfLeeDZ/full.jpg
Bought the blu-ray and wireless keyboard, should be pretty usefull for couch-surfing ;)


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/XUxG4uUg8Vxbj3JuHR3jwjhh/full.jpg
Couple of days i tested a bit with the powerswitch. It's nice, but i had something different in mind then the actual button was looking like.

Anyway, i could post another 100 pictures of creating the power button. I tried several techniques. But every time i failed. In general, it was not the acid creating my problems, but the aluminium itself! I had some pieces of aluminium i bought at the local store, guess they have a different alloy.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/OpsJ94Kw7O4WiavnfMMhHBB9/full.jpg
With some trial & error i made this adapter to glue a piece of aluminium on. And put it in the press drill due to the lack of a lathe ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/SuqNVavxDpmn9hKSZX7nn77C/full.jpg
With the dremel some material will be removed to get the V-shape in the button.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/TE5cZk6dIX4HMLs28qqDY5FN/full.jpg
And sanding it down to get the correct looks.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/3lIhiY4GP9j3fC8uxsAHGciI/full.jpg
And the finishing touch with the scotch bright stuff.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/uj43es8u57prD9U9EM7xPgYJ/full.jpg
The edges will be done afterwards.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/VUjNZx8SSNMHCLmLObaTPkoo/full.jpg
Oops... left it to long in the anodizing setup. Like he did too much tanning ;) I'll redo it.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/o7ZbNDCqgyxBozdKYlSoPbhT/full.jpg
I've spend some time on the blu-ray. The cover should fix exactly, but on the same time i should be able to bend it slightly, to trigger the eject button. So i made this piece of acryl, which can act as some kind of spring between the cover and tray.


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/vWPA0JEza2DxmoVaFsNefZkx/full.jpg
New button.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/0da4tAw1MxGyY7TnSr8aHSgL/full.jpg
While anodizing (on the right time setting ;) ). Result was OK :)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/DujJ1qJAEh0LZKiWsffC0SK8/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/fZl2ObpCAbHhQfQLJ41UWWf6/full.jpg
Got the spring mounted. I heated and bend the 2 parts which are mounted against the tray. Don't know if this thing will do the trick. It was my first idea, and there's only 1 way to find out ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ikDgOHRRol8moowHukdEYqVi/full.jpg
And it fits very well. Not much space left, so i should be able to align it.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/pkLQJaIgf78alq03n2SxuEfI/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/i4Hx5WVhVYfMOFAjEjfnR5pL/full.jpg
Started to milling this piece of acryl. See pic.2 if you want to know what it will be.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/B4hokUKcPpVwOEOPLn6dSYqw/full.jpg
PSU bracket... alloy problem.... not satisfied...will redo...

[Fuganater]

Awesome project! I have the same keyboard for my server. Works like a charm.

[AmEv]

Awesome, but still, I almost feel as if a *2M warning* is needed.

[_ferry_]

Thanks 8) But what does 2M warning means? 2 million (not a million dollar PC, but 2 million dollar PC ;) ), 2 minutes, 2 meters, 2 ... i don't know :glasses:

[SchaibleTech]

This project is fantastic...amazing work.

[AmEv]

2M..b, sort of like a 56K warning...

[_ferry_]

Ahh that way! I have only 4mbit, but it's OK. But more chat means less pics/page and that means faster loading ;)

[jdbnsn]

Have you decided what to use for your 7" screen? I was thinking about using one but had the same question about what to use. I love the way you hid the hard drives btw

[_ferry_]

About software? I played a little with Media player classic, it has a web interface, and after some searching on the www i found a webinterface looking alright. Added a few buttons and now it looks like this:
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/8o31N7LZS2BuS77gHBDc73rQ/full.png
original is here: http://www.christophermaish.com/projects/mpc-web-interface/blog/web-interface-replacement-for-media-player-classic/

For MP3 i'm still searching, something simple with buttons big enough for the touch screen. Maybe windows media center, or some kind of jukebox player.

[Stonerboy779]

For MP3 i'm still searching, something simple with buttons big enough for the touch screen. Maybe windows media center, or some kind of jukebox player.

Not sure how it will show on a screen as small as yours but try out freebox jukebox.

[jdbnsn]

VLC Media player is pretty versatile, I wonder if they have done anything that would suit this?

[AmEv]

VLC also has a web interface.

[_ferry_]

Correct, but i personally prefer MPC-HC for playback of movies.

Anyway, here's a small teaser, only 3,1cm wide, and 4,5mm heigh to be exact:
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/HJAihWj8J6w5r0eTyhGJ3VVW/full.jpg
(and yes, it's already finished ;)

But now I was thinking to use a piece of illuminated acryl instead of the black plastic Onkyo uses. What do you think?

[jdbnsn]

I haven't used MPC-HC before but use VLC frequently. I can honestly say that I'm not sure either is the best as a solution to what you want to do (and I as well on my HTPC). Which is to say separate controls from screen so you can lock playable screen to the monitor and controls to the small touch screen. I would like to know if anyone knows the best way to do this, and which software is useful?

[AmEv]

You can build a custom Web interface.

Just launch VLC. View>Add Interface>Web. Web browser "localhost:8080" minus quotes.

[OvRiDe]

You might check out Yatse 2 Media Center remote

http://yatse.leetzone.org/redmine/projects/yatse2

It says that it supports XBMC (which I prefer) and Media Player Classic - Home Cinema

Looks pretty cool...

smVhzcYkvDs

[_ferry_]

That looks definitely cool! Hope it will work well on the 800x480 resolution. I'll try when i have some time for it :)

[d_stilgar]

This has now got me looking for attractive wireless touchscreen monitors at a decent price.

[_ferry_]

Like a Android tablet? You can run various remote apps on them, or the VLC/MPC web interface :) And there are quite some B-brand tablets going for 150$ or so.

[_ferry_]

I wasn't able to find a Onkyo logo... fast enough. So i wanted to try making one myself. I knew it should be some kind of "possible" since i've made a (Porsche) Speedster logo from aluminium as well. Although it was much bigger ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/1xBjCeJzDLbIAkMrDLtXZiM8/full.jpg
First i cut the letters with a thin saw.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/WqMdDEVe3V1Ah5v8IGGrepWZ/full.jpg
And after the saw i continue with a file and X-acto knive for the final edges.
The aluminium is 0,5mm so it's easy to work with, but also easy to bend. Not what i wanted this time ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/bSq68Vgo7lmnK5bPcg5qaM18/full.jpg
I used the smallest saw blade, actually for the hand-saw. Covered up the hole with some tape, otherwise i might lose the letter between the sawdust.


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/7hEMkP6Nog9hEPVWXdyENEXJ/full.jpg
Yet another done.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/iczLTeQW6KAEjqSpFrhJtXqy/full.jpg
And another one. 1 of the hardest part was to get the aluminium away in those small spaces in the middle. The x-acto knive can cut it, but it's hard to move if the spot is so small.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/vDm68uVIrxuRyzFfkJo2Y197/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/cAab6O4Kl6IFDZbvTlEovqVK/full.jpg
And the result after exactly 2 hours of work. I'm happy with it :)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/OvcPA05YXRaUNVVx37mOE4ew/full.jpg
But they are'nt finished before everything is nice & shiny. So i smoothened them at some sanding paper, and started to polish them. Try holding such small parts while polishing them... ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/hT9qBoiVdTrQpDbXqnyVlrHJ/full.jpg
Removal of the polishing paste in the ultrasonic cleaner.


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/hcaNQg2mbbIrduE8rX3U54it/full.jpg
And now with a perfect finish!

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/SRqkpTed8IfTgeWphCRGmvL7/full.jpg
After all i glued them on a piece of black aluminium, didn't go for the illumination thing, since there's very little space to illuminate between the letters, and the light would make any imperfection (even though they came out very well, it's still handwork) extra visible

From this close, photographed with a macro lens, you can see any imperfection. But once placed in the final design i think it turns out great. And i rather have something handmade where you can see that it was handmade then something directly from the shop ;) What's special about buying a case and stick a Onkyo logo to it...

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/GCYHP25s2cCiPRhtlWsRorob/full.jpg
I started with the other parts on the front panel. 3 standoffs, and a piece of plastic has been cut exactly to fit the power switch.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/9QLrkTS9CLNNZqqk8s8gQmQk/full.jpg
And had a sparkfun IR receiver laying around. Easy to use and perfect for my application.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/I96asHsiqPMnLHNzy0RsT4Wv/full.jpg
IR receiver, Power LED with some fiber optic, and the power switch. I used a piece of fiber optic to prevent the power switch from rotating, or else it could get stuck in the opening.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/dPvCmqlzc8Owl9ZccXMODWFI/full.jpg
Another thing i had to fix was the USB connector. The front panel was to deep, so a milled it down for +/-2mm.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/PEm2myYJIn4GvrQQr8sG12oY/full.jpg
And now it's much better.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ML7D6xRUHPXcu7yjhRAAwzOH/full.jpg
Last thing for this update: The PSU bracket is ready.

What to expect in the next update? Well, there's still a lot of mounting, assembling and test-fitting to do. Pretty boring actually ;) I think i'll try to mount the front panel on the case.

[OvRiDe]

NICE!! They came out great!

[_ferry_]

It has been a while, but meanwhile I bought myself a great addition for the modders workshop…

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/mCwYKHwbMo3GUlyA3LfU8CeD/full.jpg
It’s a small Lathe. I hope it can save me some time in building parts, and create stuff I couldn’t realize before.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/jnO4fWQEIVa2bUqQ6ctKunV3/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/O1Z6jBuJzxREtAT9gXg9QhdW/full.jpg
1 of the purposes is creating a nice powerbutton. Here it’s compared to the ones onkyo made. Although it has yet to be anodized it looks very similar.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/exdMqdzlMYnP74H2HuxVO2HO/full.jpg
Another part is this small tube, which connects the 2 passive radiators. It had to be 9mm thick, and acryl tubes are sold in 10mm. Few minutes of work with the lathe, while it would have taken much longer to get it by hand.


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/22GlCqOQLanhWHBV1gGiXHmI/full.jpg
Meanwhile i was creating a couple of dildo’s, made for a perfect fit, girlfriend will love it…..

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/taAsdjKhpRJYifTlHKCA3Lwq/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/VrHzIZYH2Bidd5XSosJKKn6t/full.jpg
… Nooo, it was just part of this ufo!! :banana: I was making the cockpit by turning a half ball. Building another 2 of these LED lights for my future house. To shine a light on the table.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/UH1u9Nssxo0KqMo65ErzRqno/full.jpg
Powerbutton after anodisation. Looks a bit smoother right now.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ta0qnOgS0jFnzLLjAKUxI3cd/full.jpg
And the frontpanel is pretty much done as well. Made all the cuts and brushed the front.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/vtiM7sbyvKlpqpPMI1nN49WH/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/M6JtgLkBmyDqPLlD6WZPXe81/full.jpg
Perfect fit x2

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/4WGw0li5VxU0faz62G3jPJfX/full.jpg
Here you can see that i milled down a rectangle to fit the logo. Otherwise the logo would be recessed to much in the front panel.

Thats it! Next couple of weeks I’m pretty busy with some other projects. But vacation is on his way as well. So I might have a couple of hours left to anodize the front and work my way up to a more completed casemod

[NightrainSrt4]

Looking really nice! Keep up the good work.

[billygoat333]

Mmmmmmmm. brushed aluminium pr0n.

[d_stilgar]

Wow. This is looking so good.

[_ferry_]

It has been a while, due to other projects (modded 2 sidepanels, did some non-PC related projects as well). But now i'm back on the HTPC!

Cleaned the workshop today, so desk-space and tools are ready for it;)

Started with mounting a couple of things like the front panel, aligning the blu-ray, mounting the power button, etc. So it wasn't worth making a lot of pics, since you've seen al those parts before.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/YDwQb4o0WJb7xbAqBj4FFj8u/full.jpg
Starts to be "something", although there's enough work left to do.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/LYuKaAkH6X5i1yMOUB9NjAvA/full.jpg
Next thing to take care of is the watercooling setup. At first, the pump is too big for this small dimensioned casing ;) The acrylic tube indicates the blu-ray player, so there's about 2,5cm/1inch left. So I have little space and many corners to take. Think I'll order something new. What about a Laing DDC-1 with acrylic top? It's one of the smallest pumps i'm aware of. And I can build a nice and small reservoir for it. The one in my workstation is running silent, which is important for a HTPC.

[Fuganater]

Nice to see you back at it.


Am I the only one that noticed the "dildo" line/photo? lol

[d_stilgar]

Am I the only one that noticed the "dildo" line/photo? lol

Saw the picture and thought the same thing. Read the line below it and was relieved to know I wasn't alone. Chose to ignore it as to not encourage that sort of thing.

[_ferry_]

Great minds think alike :)

[_ferry_]

Got a short evening, so instead of modding I'd thought it would be better spend some time on a update for you all.


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ZyVvNgwSQDC37wHGUXIElToM/full.jpg
It's all about the details and small steps to get it together, like removing 1mm from the chassis to get the fan fit correctly.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/4lupQragk1yWDTDfxuUK4qeE/full.jpg
So after some dremel action it fits.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/t0NhgdPqbP1B8yRea9V30PyU/full.jpg
Taped down the failed front for a better reference.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ucaKQu7NuQGohHnJJ4IE27Ux/full.jpg
The HDD rack on the rear had no bracket to hang on, so i made it. Side 1...

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/otHW4LpVn3FWu5peR6Yih3vc/full.jpg
And 2.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/1juD3oZFdCTnq1eqtF0uPLln/full.jpg
And with the motherboard tray removed you can see that there;s quite some space left. Especially because the HDD's and optical are placed above the motherboard. while other HTPC's usually put them on the front. Don't know if big VGA cards will fit, but I don't need one in a HTPC.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ta3WzoV6SBJzDPSGhFco5rvj/full.jpg
But the cable's should be well organized to keep the airflow going.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/UGhhOTWK2kAWLX7hw8L92YRt/full.jpg
This way should be fine. 2 connectors on each cable, some mesh, and a thight fit. I left the end unmodded, since I'm not really planning on using this PSU, since it's not very efficient and somehow noisy due to a 80+92mm fan.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/Hishj1DrVQ994OfvYmNGKAM5/full.jpg
And after receiving the pump, hose and fittings I've made this mock-up.

By following the circuit, we start at the CPU. First heat is (hopefully) taken away at the passive radiator, which is cooled by out-taken air. Then it enters the reservoir, which I wanna make on top of the Laing top. Pumped through the normal radiator with a intake-fan it should get rid of the last heat and being ready to cool down the CPU.

[jdbnsn]

This is looking fantastic bro! I love the idea of the breadboard mounted on the face plate, I might have to try that. The power button and Onkyo logo came out great!

[_ferry_]

Modding engine is running at full speed ;) In 1 evening i created the reservoir and prepared the pump. Although I have to finish him by filing down the edges and sanding+ polishing the whole thing.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/KjbGWUnVFm0MEV6TD928qqc3/full.jpg
The acrylic top is bigger then the pump itself. Should be fine for projects where space is not an issue. But this time it is.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/sDZgCup76h62OHb57uK9yJev/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/swBONnxJ0T2MgX2pP0iZKD0j/full.jpg
So I did. I also did some port flowing on the outlet. Don’t know if its going to help, but it cant be worse either.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/ul4cC52ln36ENVTih8ZtZXA8/full.jpg
With the pump’s feet still remaining you can see that the actual size is reduced significantly.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/YaYghbrqFxdO0Hztc9iGHOzT/full.jpg
But when I sliet in the motherbord tray I bumped against this fitting. Didn’t expect that!

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/BsBSWwvA8OEArirq5VPsKWqa/full.jpg
But I knew i had a fixed corner somewhere, found it, and it fits perfectly. The tube has now the right height as well, I can fit in a PCI card without any problem, or maybe watercool the VGA ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/4KTGsNJFJtQLuJHeAesYspNv/full.jpg
The pump will probbalby be placed over here. Not 100% sure, since some ATX motherboards have theyr S-ATA connectors over there. But I think the system will be charged with a m-ATX board and a CPU with low power consumption.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/F6KAiy0kIz3N7gsx3Wgt8E2c/full.jpg
Gluing the reservoir.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/6LhoAAnS8znEUn0MWsFI6PE9/full.jpg
And the glue dries under influence of light, which explains the unusual position.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/HBz9HifsAxmyFx7ydHJBHsxS/full.jpg
Meanwhile I bend a piece of aluminium to hold the pump. I hope the shock absorbers work well. In my workstation the pump is mounted without them which causes some resonance.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/o3KkzTUpQJKyivBYCrd5qaN1/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/cdAjqNJVk0Zbneut8AL3kXAr/full.jpg
But it looks and fits well.
Guess this weekend I will do some more modding on the reservoir, by finishing the edges and cleaning it up. And then I have to figure out what’s left to do.

First I want to create a working system, with everything working and mounted on the way it should be. Making some final adjustments or changes when necessary. And then I have to take it almost apart to paint the sides and top. But its getting colder by now, and I have no paint shop with heating and stuff like that. So the weather (and my speed) will decide whether I can paint it this year or in spring time.

[_ferry_]

Had a extra-long weekend, but it was raining all day long today, so it was perfect for some modding action ;)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/qtQsXzimMNR8d0UBetDUrZTf/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/Txy2sWLxwvExFqe9z4aqlFru/full.jpg
As a alternative for the cables I've created this. They're more hidden this way, and only 1 connector on each cable will make them both easier to use and hide.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/FrsfVNk9L4sLTpGfCKhNzxkS/full.jpg
There's room to solder them together, and I can connect them to the modulair PSU

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/cr85OuIKJT92on1QHBrakFcd/full.jpg
Same story for the other HDD bracket.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/twGGScafmSnUfXrwaL2ssz6B/full.jpg

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/7l0WR25xZqz2zPJfbtjHIHBX/full.jpg
Looks good, no cables above the brackets, so the top panel should just fit without problems.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/iEXm5BGNTRRQij0dkbhDu6Pj/full.jpg
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/fTn2T5GkV29ZHpAOnw8QiTvN/full.jpg
Pump is done as well. Did some sanding and polishing, and filled it up with some very unique smurf-blood. (JK, it's just airbrush paint)

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/LescxKYKOhmURcHq11mQi985/full.jpg
1 of the parts which need more (re)work is the front.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/N0VvR7UH3bLL0TjnLspvn5iM/full.jpg
Drawing the lines so i know where to cut.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/Zz90Rj15Zb8bPrSo3gGmiXJ3/full.jpg
Hopefully I'll have more success with front #3, and it will have that nice looking brushed aluminium look!

It's all about the small details and finishing touches right now. And sometimes it makes me spend more time than it usually takes.
For example; Before I could cut the front panel the angle grinder had to be modified since the extra thin cutting disk wont fit in. So i took out the locking nut, and turned it down a couple of mm on the lathe. Problem solved, back to modding!

[Fuganater]

Loving the custom pump top.

[_ferry_]

The front panel is done!
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/NasMbQM09xJBin9YL6rW747L/full.jpg
The only downside is that this picture was made before anodizing, because it looks awesome.
But without anodizing it´s very sensitive to scratches and fingerprints.
I skipped the part of cutting the holes, a floor filled with aluminium dust after a lot of filing, and matching the LCD and blu/ray openings with the ones at the other panel.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/7UUzQgHOg1WdOGkIMRm3aRrv/full.jpg
While anodizing, although the phonecam is missing some vibrance, you can still see a lot of colour variation on the panel, grey, dark, bright, brown etc. I stopped the process after the panel colour was smooth and grey.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/AJMIp34g5VSLBZHoztjBz5Nc/full.jpg
And done. This time it´s much more brushed, like the panels on the inside but not the same as the onkyo. The light makes it even a bit more white-brighter on the photo.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/h2H9RZM7EXT2Z3LzBmvdeeFW/full.jpg
Well Onkyo has fancy machines for their front panels, probably different aluminium types, and better techniques for anodising. But I'm satisfied with this result. The dimensions and brushed look are fine, it's just more white, but I can't change that :( Anodizing means a layer of oxide on the alumium, and the oxide is a transparent white layer. As long as the HTPC is not standing on top of the amplifier you'll hardly notice ;) The final set-up will probably be something like HTPC on shelf at the left, CD boxes in the middle, Amplifier on the right.

Anyway, this week will be used for building audio/video furniture. bought 3 MDF panels today to build it. Probably i'll do some modding in the evenings when I have the energy to do so.

[_ferry_]

It has been a while, but I'm in need of some extra space in my garage, since i'm doing the final steps at the audio/video furniture:
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/w9OpkN3XLI8x8TdATkTT10fz/full.jpg

So it's time for final assembly before putting in some hardware :) I'm happy with the November MOTM nomination, especially by keeping in mind that this case is more for practical use, and less eyecatching compared to the others.

I had 1 mayor screw-up:
http://tweakers.net/ext/f/myomtNYZK7XaIcXHubXNeEUD/full.jpg
When inserting the connector i had to screw it in another 1/2 turn, i thought it was OK. But it wasn't. So after 10 seconds... SNAP!! after some words i won't repeat here i started to fix it. With a knife i made a V-shaped groove, to fill the crack with acryl glue. After that was dried I made a acrylic patch which i glued on to of it to gain some extra strength. And placed the connector back with liquid sealant (locktite) instead of teflon tape. Lesson learned: Use no teflon tape.


http://tweakers.net/ext/f/31mw6mki6sNRkcEGcviE7Yy2/full.jpg
There were 2 push-in connectors leaking water. Never had that problem before, and i used many of them in other builds. But i replaced them with new ones, and tested the system. Used the paint-stripper to heat up the aluminium cooler. and turned on the pump+fan. I felt slightly warm air coming out of the radiator, although it took a while to cool down the aluminium back to room temperature.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/M7WK9p9RJIAUJ2YSWVk7UanL/full.jpg
Silverstone, Cooler Master, Lian-li, Origen, Zalman; eat your heart out ;) :twisted:

Did a lot of things, like placing feets beneath the case, shorten the sidepanel a little, tightened all the screws, glued the front together etc.

The front was given a threatment with "trim restorer" it's some kind of silicone based stuff to make the trims and dash of your car shine like new. Did the same on the aluminium :) Although there are 2 spots both left and right from the LCD which are slightly more white. Maybe it will be gone after more threatments.

http://tweakers.net/ext/f/Uz4ebr115aibCYWTL0vgLKsz/full.jpg
And together with the cd+amplifier. In fact i could move my current system into this case instead of the cosmos. But it's to big and heavy right now to have it on my desk. It's heavy loaded with 2 speakers, 50L aquarium, heavy amplifier, 24"monitor etc.

To do:
- cutting a top-panel
- get a power supply
- finish the HDD power cables
- blu-ray needs a aluminium front
- getting the workspace tidy for the upcoming projects :)

Happy Christmas and maybe another update this year will follow. :D

[NightrainSrt4]

Looks wonderful. Keep up the awesome work!

[Stonerboy779]

That is so freaking beautiful, a real work of art and i hope that the cracked acrylic gives you no trouble in the future.

[_ferry_]

I hope so :) But I'm pretty sure it's strong enough right now. The patch with acrylic glue holds it together very well. I forgotten to make a pic of it but I'll do it next time.
For now i'm working on a selfmade turntable :)

[Stonerboy779]

I hope so :) But I'm pretty sure it's strong enough right now. The patch with acrylic glue holds it together very well. I forgotten to make a pic of it but I'll do it next time.
For now i'm working on a selfmade turntable :)

Can't wait to see your turntable project. I am hoping to get started on mine very soon. Granted mine is just going to be transferring all the working gear from another TT a Project Debut Carbon with just an Orfton OM10 cart. Going to give it a new body and make a plinth too and I am thinking I will use some blackwood.

[_ferry_]

Cool, i was first thinking about buying a debut carbon esprit. But realised that 400€ and maybe 200€ for a better cardridge is a lot of money for a beginner in vinyl. I'm listening to vinyl for +/-2 months so things are just getting started, better spend some €€€'s on vinyl and a goed element, and build a TT myself. Good project to improve my Lathe skills as well.

[Scottie Daddy]

Came out very nice :)

[d_stilgar]

That really looks good, and if I didn't know better, I wouldn't be able to tell which was made by you, and which was made by Onkyo.

[_ferry_]

Thanks, that sound's like objective accomplished :)