Center channel cavity completed, front trim installed, stain applied. Still need to Poly and install center channel.

http://img121.imageshack.us/img121/5278/sdc11763w.th.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/121/sdc11763w.jpg/)

http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/6558/sdc11764i.th.jpg (http://img137.imageshack.us/i/sdc11764i.jpg/)

http://img831.imageshack.us/img831/2513/sdc11767g.th.jpg (http://img831.imageshack.us/i/sdc11767g.jpg/)

Center channel cavity completed, front trim installed, stain applied. Still need to Poly and install center channel.

[/URL]

(http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/121/sdc11763w.jpg/)

[URL="http://img831.imageshack.us/i/sdc11767g.jpg/"]

This looks great! I'm going to dowel/glue my top on today.

I'm still wondering the best way to build my doors...

This looks great! I'm going to dowel/glue my top on today.

I'm still wondering the best way to build my doors...

I too am deciding on doors, but for now I'm just going to put some plastic bins in the storage areas. The top holes 25"W x 8"H x 24"D will be for the AVR and video games. The bottom center is for the PC 15" x 10" , top center is for speaker.

Here's what it looks like with components installed, still need to finish center channel speaker and figure some sort of solution to keep a 15mo old out of the PC/AVR.

http://img585.imageshack.us/img585/8990/sdc11812.th.jpg (http://img585.imageshack.us/i/sdc11812.jpg/)

So, after reading through all 40 pages of in this thread, I decided to take the dive and attempt a TV stand build. It was my first real woodworking project. Many lessons were learned, extra money spent, and equipment (plywood saw blade, pocket hole jig, Harbor Freight dust collector, etc.) purchased in the process. But after a month or so, it's finally finished.

Here are 3 pictures below, and a link to the whole flickr photo set detailing some of the construction.

flickr.com/photos/52279906@N03/sets/72157626182725640/

http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/5604/finalxq.png (http://img51.imageshack.us/i/finalxq.png/)

http://img38.imageshack.us/img38/9643/img0312jm.jpg (http://img38.imageshack.us/i/img0312jm.jpg/)

http://img62.imageshack.us/img62/92/img0322q.jpg (http://img62.imageshack.us/i/img0322q.jpg/)

flickr.com/photos/52279906@N03/sets/72157626182725640/

I toyed around learning Google Sketchup over winter break and drew up the plans, but did not get around to actually buying materials and building it until last month. Most of it is made with red oak plywood. The face frame is solid red oak. The stain used is General Finishes Rosewood color and three coats of water based (should have used oil!) polyacrylic. At first, I tried Minwax Ebony+Jacobean in a 50/50 mixture. It was a disaster. The wood would not take the stain. Even after 5 coats, it looked like someone shaded the wood over with a pencil. Searching for Espresso color stain (what the wifey wanted) on Amazon led me to the General Finishes brand. That stuff is amazing. It's dark enough to almost be considered a paint, but the grain shows through after it dries. Spread it thin with a sponge brush and leave it. One coat is all that is needed. Application of the polyacrylic top coat (also water based) eats away at the stain lightening it a little leaving a professional looking dark wood finish.

sketchup files can be downloaded at https://docs.google.com/leaf?id=0B0IhU46whI6fNmJjMDJjYzMtYTU5Mi00NTI2LTkyODQtNzI5N2F mYzY0YTU4

The stain used is General Finishes Rosewood color and three coats of water based (should have used oil!) polyacrylic. At first, I tried Minwax Ebony+Jacobean in a 50/50 mixture. It was a disaster. The wood would not take the stain. Even after 5 coats, it looked like someone shaded the wood over with a pencil. Searching for Espresso color stain (what the wifey wanted) on Amazon led me to the General Finishes brand. That stuff is amazing. It's dark enough to almost be considered a paint, but the grain shows through after it dries. Spread it thin with a sponge brush and leave it. One coat is all that is needed. Application of the polyacrylic top coat (also water based) eats away at the stain lightening it a little leaving a professional looking dark wood finish.

I really like how your stain turned out; it's a beautiful color.

Now you have plenty of room for a bigger TV:D.

kyoorius, that stand you built really looks great!

Ditto--Great job, K.

Here is the stand I built with the information and help from some members here. Used the 8020 aluminum, shelves and sides are red plexiglass and top and bottom are mdf painted with duratex.
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/BobJen/P1000551.jpg

Very nice. Feels great to build something like that yourself, doesn't it? :)

Hey guys,

Long time reader at the forums, but first or second time poster. Just a quick technical question: if my TV is 46" and my eye level is about 3' off the ground, how tall should my stand be? I did a brief measurement today and came up with a possible 15" or 16", but those numbers seemed low to me - especially since some people have their TVs quite high.

I guess my question is - is there a standard or is it entirely preferential?

Your eye level should be at about the center of the screen--So 15" or 16" is not out of the question.

Hey guys,

Long time reader at the forums, but first or second time poster. Just a quick technical question: if my TV is 46" and my eye level is about 3' off the ground, how tall should my stand be? I did a brief measurement today and came up with a possible 15" or 16", but those numbers seemed low to me - especially since some people have their TVs quite high.

I guess my question is - is there a standard or is it entirely preferential?

Need more information: Does the TV have a stand? How big is the bezel? Ideally, you want your "eyes" about 1/3 of the way to 1/2 way up the screen.

So, with stand and bezel, your 46" TV is probably about 33" tall (screen itself is 23" tall). If your "eyes" are 36" off the ground (I'd double check that), you'd want the center of the display at about that same 36" mark. This would mean a stand height of about 14.5". 14.5 (stand) + 10 (base, bottom bezel) + 11.5 (1/2 screen height) = 36.


Now, is it preferential? I guess, but it shouldn't be unless there's no other option. Do you want to have your head tilted up the whole time you're watching a movie?



PS. I have my 65" display on an 18" stand.

Need more information: Does the TV have a stand? How big is the bezel? Ideally, you want your "eyes" about 1/3 of the way to 1/2 way up the screen.

So, with stand and bezel, your 46" TV is probably about 33" tall (screen itself is 23" tall). If your "eyes" are 36" off the ground (I'd double check that), you'd want the center of the display at about that same 36" mark. This would mean a stand height of about 14.5". 14.5 (stand) + 10 (base, bottom bezel) + 11.5 (1/2 screen height) = 36.


Now, is it preferential? I guess, but it shouldn't be unless there's no other option. Do you want to have your head tilted up the whole time you're watching a movie?



PS. I have my 65" display on an 18" stand.

That's really helpful, thanks!
The dimensions are as follows: Dimensions (Approx.) : 44 3/8 x 28 1/8 x 11 1/8" (1127 x 713 x 281mm) with pedestal

Without the pedestal, the TV is only a couple inches shorter according to Sony at about 26".

I took that straight from the Sony website - I don't have my TV with me. It's in my new apartment at the moment; I'm at home visiting for a bit over a week. I transitioned everything over there, but don't have a stand and can't afford to purchase one so this seemed to be the best bet. I'm hoping to be able to bring the stand when I head back to the apartment.

Given those dimensions, my 50" wide idea might have been a bit much. Maybe 45"?
It's height is just over 28", given the provided measurement. It's 11" inches deep as well because of the stand, and I was figuring on making it probably a foot. Maybe deeper, once I see how deep the receiver or PS3 are.

A lot of great information here. I was thinking about building my own stand since I can't find a suitable stand for Atlantic Technology 8200e Center Channel and my 58" Flatscreen TH-58PZ750U. Eye level is about 3.5'. The Center channel is 28.5"W x 16"H x 13"inD @ 55lbs. While the TV is 36.1"H x 57.3"W x 5.7"D 170lbs. Anyone have a recommendation on stand height?

Actually, with the pedestal your TV is just over 38" high, and the center of the display is at the 20" mark (1/2 of 36" + 2" pedestal).

So, you want that center mark to be at eye level, which is 3.5' (41").

41 - 20 = 21

Your ideal height would be 21"

This is one of the best threads, if not THE best thread, at the AVS forums.

So positive and upbeat with people sharing ideas and providing support to each other.

(unlike some threads where everything becomes a p'ing contest)

I fell over it by doing a google search on 'build tv stand'; I am so glad I found it.

I am almost ready to build one of my own...

This is one of the best threads, if not THE best thread, at the AVS forums.

So positive and upbeat with people sharing ideas and providing support to each other.

(unlike some threads where everything becomes a p'ing contest)

I fell over it by doing a google search on 'build tv stand'; I am so glad I found it.

I am almost ready to build one of my own...

Keep us posted...

I made my own kinect tv stand with a video tape cover and blu-tac :cool:

is it ok???

Made from Form Ply and a product called Qubelok.

http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7576/p1020694e.jpg
http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/783/p1020695h.jpg
http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/6772/p1020692a.jpg
http://img43.imageshack.us/img43/920/p1020669v.jpg

Smart power board with Amp as master and cd/dvr/sub/fan as slaves, works a treat.
http://img547.imageshack.us/img547/1346/p1020670c.jpg

Hope you like.

I made my own kinect tv stand with a video tape cover and blu-tac :cool:

is it ok???

LOL!

Well, that's a stand on a TV, not a TV on a stand. What do you have on that thing, and how much does it weigh?

Pretty clever, though. Doubles as a cable chase. :D

Made from Form Ply and a product called Qubelok.

http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7576/p1020694e.jpg
http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/783/p1020695h.jpg
http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/6772/p1020692a.jpg
http://img43.imageshack.us/img43/920/p1020669v.jpg

Smart power board with Amp as master and cd/dvr/sub/fan as slaves, works a treat.
http://img547.imageshack.us/img547/1346/p1020670c.jpg

Hope you like.

Nice work. Does the smart power board turn on the other components when you turn on the amp? Got any links for info or sources?

:)

Nice work. Does the smart power board turn on the other components when you turn on the amp? Got any links for info or sources?

:)

Sure does, thats why I got it, when I turn the amp on the board turns on the cd/dvr/sub and fan (Antec tricool on low setting wired upto an old 5v phone charger) that helps cool my amp, I'm in the tropics, Cairns Australia to be exact.

http://img28.imageshack.us/img28/6828/p1020673e.jpg

http://www.ji.com.au/products/PT9778/

Look here for Cocoboo, and you can see my whole set-up,

http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum-replies.cfm?t=1324450&p=23

Hope that helps

here is a pic of a stand/mount i'm working on. gotta get the wood and chop it up. i think the design should make for a plenty sturdy support panel for my pk550(:D) and any larger TV i get in the future.

what do you guys/gals think...??

What are you planning to build out of? Structurally speaking, if those are studs, it looks pretty sturdy...are you going to be able to mount it against the wall? Besides that, my biggest concern would be warping. I've had studs bow/twist a little. Not usually a big deal for a wall if you do it right, but if it is a free-standing, and those are studs, on TV mount, it might be noticeable.

not sure what type but it will be plywood (birch maybe) and 2x4 studs doubled for the 3 in the middle. the studs will be sandwiched between 3/4" ply and also the sides will be covered with ply so the studs will not show on any edge. i removed the backing in the pic to show what the insides will look like.

it will be a freestanding support panel but wil be anchored onto the lower tv stand portion. i figure if i use enough bracing between studs and some wood glue/nails/screws where needed things should turn out pretty good. i figured i could deal with the warping by doubling the straightest studs i can find and gluing/nailing them together (dont know much about the properties of wood so i may be wrong lol)

thanks for the feedback ;)

edit: there will also be 2x2's on the bottom of the stand to provide foundation support (and a bit more height) under the lower shelves similar to how studs are placed inside a wall.

Here is the build progress so far. Still gotta add the middle shelf and paint it black.

http://images4.static-bluray.com/htgallery/93442_full.jpg
http://images2.static-bluray.com/htgallery/93444_full.jpg
http://images3.static-bluray.com/htgallery/93443_full.jpg
http://images2.static-bluray.com/htgallery/93448_full.jpg
http://images.static-bluray.com/htgallery/93445_full.jpg
http://images3.static-bluray.com/htgallery/93447_full.jpg
http://images4.static-bluray.com/htgallery/93446_full.jpg
http://images.static-bluray.com/htgallery/93450_full.jpg
http://images2.static-bluray.com/htgallery/93451_full.jpg
http://images.static-bluray.com/htgallery/93449_full.jpg

Hi all,

figured this might be the best place to post this as i am trying to come up with a design that meets the following criteria:
- Whatever the design, a projection screen will be coming down in front, with the bottom of that screen's frame about 28"-30" from the ground (would like to leave doggie clearance for a pup to walk underneath, since the screen will be stretching almost across the width of the room).
- Unit is wide enough to support 50" plasma in the center and L/R speakers on the sides probably means 6-6.5ft wide
- ideally the speakers are as close to ~35-38" off the ground, which is about ear height.
- ideally the L/R/C speakers are as close to aligned as possible without the Center channel blocking the plasma. I wonder if anyone has some type of design that allows the center channel to lift up in front of the plasma when the plasma is not in use. manual is fine, electric lift not needed.
- unit can support 4-5 components plus a pioneer elite receiver, plus i suppose (depending on final design) the center channel speaker
- ideally closed design, ie side/rear panels plus doors in front

i want to keep this baby light weight and given the size im likely going to need, some aluminum framing looks like it would fit the bill from both a strength and weight perspective. would use some type of paneling around everywhere to close it up.

anyone have any thoughts/suggestions? i've been racking my brain about how to accomplish all these trade offs but havent come up with anything yet. any help would be most appreciated.

thanks!
rukus

pls I neet some informations on the hjstory of T.V stand. I also need some guide as to materialsand tools, steps and processes involved in the construction of a metalic T.V stand.

pls I neet some informations on the history of T.V stand. I also need some guide as to materials and tools, steps and processes involved in the construction of a metalic T.V stand.

pls I neet some informations on the history of T.V stand. I also need some guide as to materials and tools, steps and processes involved in the construction of a metalic T.V stand.

You should read the whole thread first. You should find what you need in the posts and links...

is there a step by step on how to build a pretty good tv stand? i read through several pages and i didnt find any tutorials just pictures,also how much do these tv stand cost after making them?

is there a step by step on how to build a pretty good tv stand? i read through several pages and i didnt find any tutorials just pictures,also how much do these tv stand cost after making them?

There is a pretty decent write up of a media center in this months copy of "Wood" magazine. I get it on my iPad but it is also available in stores as well.

Hey All,

I just found this thread and WOW I must say some of you have built some great stands and Entertainment Centers!

Last weekend I started on my own DIY entertainment center project it has been my first woodworking project ever I think it has turned out well so far. I was able to construct my base cabinets and give them a good prime. I plan to finish them up this weekend and start the install.

Here is a little background on my project:

I am going to be converting my closet into a built in Entertainment Center. Currently in the build stage but am planning on finishing the project over the next couple weeks.

The Entertainment center is going to be constructed of Cabinet Grade Birch plywood with a bead-board backing. I am going to use poplar for the facing and then trim it all out with some nice beaded trim so it looks built in (because I am converting a closet.

Now here is the good stuff I only took 1 pic last weekend after I finished because I didn't know about this thread but more will follow.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i291/DSF767/2011-11-11_15-50-53.jpg

I've been lurking this thread for a while now and always looked for an excuse to build a stand...now I have a toddler that just started walking and he decided he enjoyed turning off everything under my existing tv stand, thus the justification for the project. Most important design criteria is cabinet doors.

All major material purchased at a big box home improvement store. Case fans ordered from NewEgg. Drive out price on all items including a gallon of premium paint and "bomb proof" corner bracing is < $300. I used two full sheets of 4'x8' mdf on this project...and I really appreciate the big box stores that cut the pieces I need before I leave the store! This beast weighs in around 175 lbs!


http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/1jpg.jpg

I'm still amazed at the storage space size of the bottom drawer (28" wide x 24" deep x 8" tall. It weighs about 30 pounds and fits nicely on 18" slide rails and holds all my movies and game controllers and original remotes.
http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/2jpg.jpg

My secret compartment to hold wires and such...
http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/3jpg.jpg

http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/4jpg.jpg

Glass cut and mounted at a local glass shop for $20!
http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/5jpg.jpg

Scythe SY1225SL12L 120mm "Slipstream" Case Fans
http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/6jpg.jpg

Braced....LIKE A BOSS!
http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/7jpg.jpg

Holding up a JVC HD-56FN97 - The flash screwed up the image...Halo looks fantastic on this TV! You also see speakers from The Speaker Company (RIP)

http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/8jpg.jpg

Should have built a bigger drawer...
http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/IMG_5596.jpg

Nice work there, Goodwad!

Nice work there, Goodwad!

Thanks moonhawk!

After coming through on some "bomb proof" IKEA like box pyramid shelving in the kids rooms, AV Rack for my bedroom, AV rack in my weight room (seen in the pictures), bookshelf storage for our closet, the TV stand wasn't a hard to sell to the wife...considering I can build it stronger than I can buy it at a fraction of the costs (assuming my time is worth nothing).

It's one of those projects you're bitter about for a couple of weeks...but then you get over it!! Besides....I needed an excuse to buy a plunge router.

Good luck to all of you considering building a stand. You will make mistakes..but just roll with it. My biggest mistakes came with running a plunge router for the first time (like my cabinet doors, cabinet glass, and even the bezels around the glass are different sizes on both doors. You don't have all the details worked out in the beginning...I sure didn't....just build the frame and figure the rest out later. I used cheap material (MDF), but prettied it up with black paint and "chromed out" corner bracing.

Have fun!

You're welcome!

You can see some of my projects if you search this thread, I believe.

Hey All,

I just found this thread and WOW I must say some of you have built some great stands and Entertainment Centers!

Last weekend I started on my own DIY entertainment center project it has been my first woodworking project ever I think it has turned out well so far. I was able to construct my base cabinets and give them a good prime. I plan to finish them up this weekend and start the install.

Here is a little background on my project:

I am going to be converting my closet into a built in Entertainment Center. Currently in the build stage but am planning on finishing the project over the next couple weeks.

The Entertainment center is going to be constructed of Cabinet Grade Birch plywood with a bead-board backing. I am going to use poplar for the facing and then trim it all out with some nice beaded trim so it looks built in (because I am converting a closet.

Now here is the good stuff I only took 1 pic last weekend after I finished because I didn't know about this thread but more will follow.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i291/DSF767/2011-11-11_15-50-53.jpg


Here is a little update to my project

Last weekend progress

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i291/DSF767/IMG_3983.jpg

This weekend progress, I just need 1 more coat of paint and it will be good to go.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i291/DSF767/IMG_3993.jpg

Here is a little update to my project

Last weekend progress

This weekend progress, I just need 1 more coat of paint and it will be good to go.



Looking good! How are you routing your cabling (for the TV area)?

Looking good! How are you routing your cabling (for the TV area)?

I used a hole saw to put a hole in the top so I can feed the cords down is just hard to see in the picture because its white.

All I can say is WOW!! You guys have some nice designs.

I am heading down this road, my wife and I have not found a stand that meets both of our needs.

So what software/program are you guys using to draw with?

I used google sketchup. You can dwnld it for free. Its basically an autocad program, without the xtra bells and whistles. Or...you could use the good ol' pencil and paper ;)

What kind of finish are you planning to use?

All I can say is WOW!! You guys have some nice designs.

I am heading down this road, my wife and I have not found a stand that meets both of our needs.

So what software/program are you guys using to draw with?

Considering I was just working with 4' x 8' sheets of MDF, I just used a simple spreadsheet and adjusted all my rows and columns into many small squares and made a rectangular grid pattern of the 4' x 8' sheet (it's actually 49" x 97" so you have room for at least 8 saw blade widths). Then I colored in the different pieces (in different colors) I would cut out of the sheet to maximize the usage. I actually had a big box home improvement store make all the cuts for me before I left as they have a large wall saw and I have a small car! :)

It's amazing what you can build out of one or two sheets.

All I can say is WOW!! You guys have some nice designs.

I am heading down this road, my wife and I have not found a stand that meets both of our needs.

So what software/program are you guys using to draw with?

I think my build took 2 sheets of plywood and a sheet of bead board which I also had a big box store do my main cuts so I could fit it in my car. I also had to use some 2 x 4 but that's only because I had to frame out the closet for my conversion.

Thanks for the info!

I am still working on a design, well my wife is. She wants one a little taller than most of the ones out there. So far the demisions are 74"LX22"DX27"H. I know it maybe a little high for some but there are 3" legs on the bottom so it gives me about 24" to work with on the inside. What I am working on now is the layout of the cables, wires, and cooling. I'll post some images once I figure out Google sketch.

The basic design will come from one of Standout Designs models CLICK ME (http://www.standoutdesigns.com/store/pc/Horizon-N702-XL-Solid-Wood-TV-Console-10p729.htm).

I would like to have three bays in the center so the height might go up a few inches or the legs might go done. Still working that one out.

Santa is suppose to be dropping off some tools to help with this project and a couple more that have started to popup. I'll keep you guys posted.

I'll post some images once I figure out Google sketch.

The basic design will come from one of Standout Designs models CLICK ME (http://www.standoutdesigns.com/store/pc/Horizon-N702-XL-Solid-Wood-TV-Console-10p729.htm).



Since you are interested in the Standout Designs N702 and are planning to tackle Sketchup, you may be interested in the drawing I did last year when I was considering building a clone of the N702.

Check out below thread:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1291665

Thanks dboff01!

That's pretty much what I am working on, but between work and the holidays free time is tight. I hope to finish up the drawings after Christmas and start building a couple of weeks later, after I play with my new tools.

I did notice on one of your drawings that are slots cut on the bottom just behind the doors. That's for airflow right?

I did notice on one of your drawings that are slots cut on the bottom just behind the doors. That's for airflow right?

Yes those are for intake ventilation with the warm air expected to flow out the top back.

I am going to be building a TV stand after seeing the salamander designs stand and then gaging on the price tag. I have almost everything worked out for it, except for some of the t-slot hardware. I am going with 8020 15 series t-slot.

The parts I am not sure of are the studs for mounting my back cover and the shelf mounts. For the back cover I want to do locking threaded studs. This is so it works just like the salamander designs stand where the stud locks into the t-slot and then there is a cap bolt that holds the panel onto the stud. The shelf mounts I would like to do differently. I have vertical t-slots (tubing goes up not across) and I would like to have mounts that lock into the t-slot, and allow me to screw the shelving into the mount (threaded holes). I do not want to use shelf mounts that allow movement unless I absolutely have to.

I have seen a couple of very nice designs in this thread based on the t-slot tubing, does anyone know what I am looking for? Bonus points if they come from their ebay store (which I can not link to due to post count :()

I am going to be building a TV stand after seeing the salamander designs stand and then gaging on the price tag. I have almost everything worked out for it, except for some of the t-slot hardware. I am going with 8020 15 series t-slot.

The parts I am not sure of are the studs for mounting my back cover and the shelf mounts. For the back cover I want to do locking threaded studs. This is so it works just like the salamander designs stand where the stud locks into the t-slot and then there is a cap bolt that holds the panel onto the stud. The shelf mounts I would like to do differently. I have vertical t-slots (tubing goes up not across) and I would like to have mounts that lock into the t-slot, and allow me to screw the shelving into the mount (threaded holes). I do not want to use shelf mounts that allow movement unless I absolutely have to.

I have seen a couple of very nice designs in this thread based on the t-slot tubing, does anyone know what I am looking for? Bonus points if they come from their ebay store (which I can not link to due to post count :()

I'm interested in the same thing, so will see what people hopefully reply with. Sorry I am of no help as I just started working on my 8020 design as well (just finished my 8020 projection screen design).

Red...

I'm attaching a pix of what I call "gussetts" which some furniture makers will call corner or glue blocks or whatever. When I apprenticed I worked at a custom stair builder that built conventional and elaborate spiral wood staircases and we used glue blocks behind stair risers where they meet the treads. Believe it or not, we only glued them in... did not have nail guns back then :)!


Iron Horse

Sorry to dig up a quote way back from page one (and 7 years ago!), but how do the gussets in your picture prevent side to side racking?

I am contemplating building my own stand, but the only solution I could come up with for preventing racking, was to put a full back on the thing, and cut out "panels" or "windows" to open the compartments back up, leaving the framework and sturdying the whole thing.

Nice job! Are your fans a bit noisy solid mounting them like that? (mine were) I mounted the fans to a metal plate with rubber mounts, put a piece of foam weather strip around the hole and then fastened the plate to the structure till it just touched the weather strip.

I've been lurking this thread for a while now and always looked for an excuse to build a stand...now I have a toddler that just started walking and he decided he enjoyed turning off everything under my existing tv stand, thus the justification for the project. Most important design criteria is cabinet doors.

All major material purchased at a big box home improvement store. Case fans ordered from NewEgg. Drive out price on all items including a gallon of premium paint and "bomb proof" corner bracing is < $300. I used two full sheets of 4'x8' mdf on this project...and I really appreciate the big box stores that cut the pieces I need before I leave the store! This beast weighs in around 175 lbs!


http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/1jpg.jpg

I'm still amazed at the storage space size of the bottom drawer (28" wide x 24" deep x 8" tall. It weighs about 30 pounds and fits nicely on 18" slide rails and holds all my movies and game controllers and original remotes.
http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/2jpg.jpg

My secret compartment to hold wires and such...
http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/3jpg.jpg

http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/4jpg.jpg

Glass cut and mounted at a local glass shop for $20!
http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/5jpg.jpg

Scythe SY1225SL12L 120mm "Slipstream" Case Fans
http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/6jpg.jpg

Braced....LIKE A BOSS!
http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/7jpg.jpg

Holding up a JVC HD-56FN97 - The flash screwed up the image...Halo looks fantastic on this TV! You also see speakers from The Speaker Company (RIP)

http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/Projects%20TV%20Stand/8jpg.jpg

Should have built a bigger drawer...
http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/goodwad/IMG_5596.jpg

Nice job! Are your fans a bit noisy solid mounting them like that? (mine were) I mounted the fans to a metal plate with rubber mounts, put a piece of foam weather strip around the hole and then fastened the plate to the structure till it just touched the weather strip.

Thanks! The fans are super quiet. Read about them here:
http://www.silentpcreview.com/article832-page4.html

I haven't heard any rattling as it is metal hardware on MDF with 4 coats of latex paint, but if I do I'll look into rubber mounts or simply put a washer with some thin piece of rubber between it an the MDF. Left side fans only switch on with the computer (seen in the Lian Li case). Right side fans used to switch on with the receiver, but only measured 8 watts with them spinning (that includes heat loss from the AC to Molex adapter (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16812123309)), so I leave the right side fans spinning 24/7.

Here is a little update to my project

Last weekend progress

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i291/DSF767/IMG_3983.jpg

This weekend progress, I just need 1 more coat of paint and it will be good to go.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i291/DSF767/IMG_3993.jpg

Just got the replacement for my first broken plasma and got everything setup last night!

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i291/DSF767/IMG_4031.jpg

Hey guys!

This thread inspired me to build my own unit for my projector setup. I have somewhat of an interesting setup as I have a sloped wall that both limited my screen's height and required making my screen "float" from the wall. These characteristics mean that the bottom of my screen is only 14.5" from the floor and nearly 20" from the back wall to get my desired 120" screen size. When we originally built this house 2 years ago I had planned to put a screen up in this room (it's a bonus room over our garage) and had installed power in the ceiling, ran conduit to nearly the same location, and pre-wired for surround sound. This also lead to having all of my components underneath the screen.

So after searching for a commercially made unit that could both house all of my components and fit under my screen I realized that the only acceptable solution was going to be to build my own. I finished my screen in the summer of 2010 and unfortunately due to the demands of graduate school, work, and my wife (not to mention enjoying the theater!), my "Man Cave" looked like this for over a year:

http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/8177/img0262mj.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/17/img0262mj.jpg/)
(Yes those are text books and direcTV boxes that my componenets are sitting on, can't let them sit on the floor!!!!)

I had originally intended to build a solid one piece box with 3 main compartments, however after evaluating A: How much material (wood) this would be and B: Realizing that I would have to get this upstairs and that a solid piece would be large, heavy, and awkward to handle, I decided to go for the 3 piece approach. 2 virtually identical left and right sides (the left having one less shelf to accommodate my AVR) and a center drawer that my center channel would rest on. I also decided to stain it black to match my speakers.

Here are the boxes after they were initially assembled. My father-in-law and his business partner (guy is a master wood craft hobbyist) helped me assemble these. We used a "Kreg" jig to fasten everything together resulting in minimal filling and virtually no gluing.

Left Hand Box:
http://img856.imageshack.us/img856/3592/img0256z.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/856/img0256z.jpg/)

Right Hand Box:
http://img545.imageshack.us/img545/1402/img0257fg.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/545/img0257fg.jpg/)

Both of these boxes are 42.5" wide, 13.5" tall, and 24" deep and will house all of my components and allow some room for added components if necessary.

Center drawer cabinet:
http://img845.imageshack.us/img845/9931/img0258tz.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/845/img0258tz.jpg/)

Center drawer face:
http://img819.imageshack.us/img819/6875/img0259km.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/819/img0259km.jpg/)

Since we were going to all the trouble of building this (and seeing this already done earlier by goodwad), I decided to add one 120mm case fan to each compartment to help move the air around everything. I ended up using a controlled power strip tied to my receiver so that these are only on when the receiver is on.

One set of fans mounted to one of the backboards (you can see my windows for wires and power cords):
http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/4373/dsc01478zt.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/4/dsc01478zt.jpg/)

From the backside after being installed on the cabinet:
http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/1893/dsc01479w.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/151/dsc01479w.jpg/)

Up close of the grills to keep the cat from investigating what is making all that air:
http://img580.imageshack.us/img580/1889/dsc01480p.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/580/dsc01480p.jpg/)

And finally everything installed:
http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/8009/img0264v.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/338/img0264v.jpg/)

Up close of everything:
http://img805.imageshack.us/img805/6079/dsc01483p.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/805/dsc01483p.jpg/)

And the drawer!!!! (That bottom row has 39 blu-rays/PS3 games, that means it should hold around a 120 of these.... Its huge!!!!):
http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/5347/img0265n.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/100/img0265n.jpg/)

All in all it was a fun project and cost me way less than it would have had I had someone build it for me. Both the left and right cabinets were designed with doors in mind so if I get the urge I can get some glass cut and and add them later. This will probably wait until after we finish the rest of the room ; we want to paint it a dark blue-grey and build a bar for the opposite corner (to hold my popcorn machine off course).

Hadn't seen these last three projects for some reason.

Nice work RD King 2, DSF 767, and Da Deuce.

Just wanted to thank everyone for giving me the ideas and confidence to build my own stand. I used the kreg jig with glue to connect the pieces. Under the center speaker I made a hidden compartment to hide all of the wires.
The stand is made out of 3/4 inch red oak plywood, 64"w x 20"t x 16"d. Finished it with black satin minwax polyshades. I installed four 120" fans from coolerguys with 2 temperature monitors. I learned alot plus it gave me a reason to buy some new tools! Thanks again to all for posting and sharing!

241699



241698



241697

...plus it gave me a reason to buy some new tools!

I don't know about you, but I was really looking for an excuse to buy a plunge router. Also...Nice job DaDeuce! I think the fan grills are a great idea, luckily my toddler isn't strong enough to roll the stand to where he can get his fingers in there, but I might ought to go ahead and add this feature to my setup anyway after moving the fans to the inside of the case.

Thanks for sharing.

Nice work, Longrifle.

Lots of great stuff here! I've never made anything out of wood, but I'm thinking about giving it a try.

One of my many questions is how exactly people put the speaker cloths on to doors. I see some people stapling the cloth to the back of the door, but there is also some kind wooden dowel or something that fits in where the cloth meets the door.

(This kind of thing can be seen, for example, in kyoorius's build --> post #1254. Go to the Flickr stream to see the photo of the back of the cloth door.)

If anyone can give some guidance for someone like me who has no experience with this stuff, I would appreciate it. And great job everyone; keep the builds coming!

Hi guys!

I just want to say thanks to everybody here for all the information, tips and pics to give me enough confidence to build my own AV Console. I know it is not perfect, but thinks look much better that before.

Before:

http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj563/cr136124/SAM_0850.jpg


Just few pics during the building process:

http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj563/cr136124/SAM_0856-2.jpg

http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj563/cr136124/SAM_1033-1.jpg

http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj563/cr136124/SAM_1034-1.jpg

http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj563/cr136124/SAM_1035-1.jpg

http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj563/cr136124/SAM_1037-1.jpg

http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj563/cr136124/SAM_1040-1.jpg

It's alive!

http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj563/cr136124/SAM_1051-1.jpg

http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj563/cr136124/SAM_1059-1.jpg

http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj563/cr136124/SAM_1054-1.jpg

http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj563/cr136124/SAM_1057-1.jpg

AFTER & fully loaded!!!

http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj563/cr136124/SAM_1067-1.jpg

http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj563/cr136124/SAM_1060-1.jpg

http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj563/cr136124/SAM_1066-1.jpg

http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj563/cr136124/SAM_1063-1.jpg


So, once again, thanks everybody!!!

:)

Looks good cr, you should go ahead and get that display off the wall and put it right on top of your new cabinet.

You'll gain a couple of feet for viewing distance purposes as well as get the display closer to the ideal viewing height.

Looks good cr, you should go ahead and get that display off the wall and put it right on top of your new cabinet.

You'll gain a couple of feet for viewing distance purposes as well as get the display closer to the ideal viewing height.

NOOOOOOOO! If I do that, I can't continue telling my wife that the TV is too small and that we need a fixed screen and a projector at home.....;)

Lol! Thanks for the advice, I knew from the the beginning the TV was installed a bit high. But, the reason of that is due to the fact that there is a metallic plaque and power lines running in the sweet spot and therefore no drilling was possible there to install the TV. So, the only option back then was to go higher.

Now, the cool thing about that is that after I added my RTi A9s and now with my new console the 51" 3D Plasma looks tiny and we are "forced" to upgrade to a PJ........;)

Cheers!