Black Speaker Finish! What do you use?  

I used Minwax Ebony stain. Home Depot does not carry it but some local hardware and lumber yards will stock it. Takes several coats to get it really dark. You might also try diluted black paint wiped on with a rag.

I've not done a black stain. For a cheapo "piano black", I used a laminate. Did the PR's, too. This one's a little beat up at this point, my first and only attempt:

http://home.comcast.net/~tgilvey/IMG_0786.JPG

http://www.woodfinishsupply.com/PLaniline.html

I don't think stains are going to get you where you want to be.

I've read about people using high-gloss industrial enamel, found at most local hardware or paint stores.

How about the industrial black "speckled" look. Anyone know whats used to do that? Maybe some textured paint from Home Depot?

Jack, Thats a nice lookin' box... you even "tuned" the PRs with the laminate! Do you have a link to the details of your build?

Dr V

I think the speckled look comes from spray paint w/ flecks in it. Never used it, but I'm pretty sure that's what I've seen.

Thanks. Nahh, no links to the box, sorry. ~62L marine ply cube which the 1400g PRs (Lambda) would tune to 24Hz or so. The lam would add a bit of weight, but I think I confimed Fb at around what was predicted.

I think I found what you're looking for...

But can't post a link....

Until I have

at least 5

posts under my belt...

Try here (bottom of page) or here (middle of page).

They used black analine dye over oak veneer. I like the look and may have to give it a shot.

HTH,
-todd

Here's what Jim Salk used for some HT3's. It was a 'Pearl Grey' aniline dye.

http://www.salksound.com/gallery-votm-1105-1.html

Lord -

If you want the grain to show through, analine dye is the only way to go. Stains are pigments that mask the grain. Analine dye is basically transparent. I would suggest alcohol-based dye as the water-based versions tend to raise the grain of the veneer.

I usually thin mine out pretty much so I can put on multiple coats until I reach the color I am looking for. This is less risky than trying to do it all in one pass. This is especially important with black since you can get it so black it is no longer transparent.

If you want to end up with a high-gloss topcoat, it may be a good idea to use multiple coats of sanding sealer until the grain is filled and the surface is completely flat. They use the dye and finally clear top coats that can eventually be rubbed out.

If you do not have spray equipment, you can use cans of gloss nitro lacquer. You will need about six coats or so. This will then need to cure for a week to 10 days and you can then rub it out to any level of gloss desired.

- Jim