astrochex first ever build - MINI Cooper S

[astrochex]

Cool rig!

I hope you're not planning on using it for real RTA though.

I think the base configuration is OK, but I figured the mic mounting would raise some questions. I just need to get a better mic holder.

[n_olympios]

I can think of at least 3 fundamental flaws in it.

a) The vertical wood is too close to the microphone
b) It only points to one single direction and
c) It seems to point higher than ideal, then again I might be fooled from the pic on this one.

(a) will create early reflections that will interfere with the readings; also, for proper RTA use you need to take multiple measurements, with the mic pointed at several spots, and average the responses into one, hence why (b) will not do.

I usually get in the listening position (preferably wearing ear plugs), keep the mic as close to my head as possible, then point it at various spots all across the vehicle width and height, taking separate readings. I do that either by using REW or an Audiocontrol real RTA. Problem with the latter is you have to keep at its display at all times.

REW's RTA function works really well and I've gotten some great results through it.

[astrochex]

Thanks for the pointers, Nick. I'll get a better mic holder for the Dayton. I do not have a laptop, so I can't take advantage of REW RTA.

[astrochex]

Glenn would not call this progress since its only a plan , but its a completed plan so I know what I need to buy to get all the deadening done. Its a hodge-podge, but I am excited to not-hear the outcome of this phase.

[chithead]

Clever! I do hope it works out as intended.

[astrochex]

I think this is going to be my kluged amp arrangement. Even with shorter RCAs, it would be tight to fit all amps on the same level. So the Helix and PPI would one level, with the Mac in the middle on a second level. In my mind, this is a good compromise between cooling and aesthetics. I have not really considered other orientations. The Mac will be a liftable platform for access to Helix connections. The PPI gains are on the left side so either I will need a short screwdriver or I will adjust the gains before the amp is fastened. The distro block will either be mounted to the car as in the picture, or to the bottom of the rack. I like the simple runs from the battery to the distro.

I was hoping Scotts GZHA 4150XII deal would greatly simplify my layout and install, but alas, the frequency ranges do not suit my drivers. I may still look for a full range 4 channel with 100W @ 4ohm...

Going in amp layout. Comments are encouraged.

[astrochex]

Almost the best kind of update: new gear! I could not resist the deal on the GZHA 4150XII. Not only will I get more clean German power, it will greatly simplify my amp install by enabling me to go single layer. Me happy.

My new unbundled box of joy:

[littlemissGTO]

Tease.

[Hi-FiDelity]

Gut shots or if didn't happen.

[astrochex]

Moar


Its really purty.


Front Panel


Back Panel


Mock Up. The aesthetics will work nicely, even though that was not a primary goal. I think the Germans will play nice with each other.


Cheater Guts (Ground Zero image). I took the allen screws off which released the rails but nothing else. So yeah, I chickened out.