How does it compare to commercial cabs? Take a look at this SPL chart, comparing the OT12 (top trace) to the $1,045 Community Sound XLT43e 1x12:

The 6dB sensitivity differential means one OT12 driven with 200 watts is as loud as two XLT43e driven with 400. The OT12 may be built with a single compression driver on a CD horn like the XLT43e, or it may be built with a six element vertical tweeter array for line-array stacking of multiple cabs. The OT12 may also be built with a twelve element cross-firing melded tweeter array, as pictured above, giving high frequency dispersion that no commercial PA top can match. Or, for the highest possible output at the longest throws, build yours with a premium compression driver on a line arrayable full cabinet height horn.

Play bass? Build the OTop 12 without tweeters for vintage tone with high sensitivity. Even 50 watt heads are enough for gig levels.

Need more power? You could go with Community’s $1,500 iHP1294. But it’s both larger and heavier than an 28 x 22 x 18 inch 60 pound OmniTop 2x12. This chart compares the two, with 1 watt input:

Enough said?

The plans go into great depth, showing you not only what tools to use but also how to use them. Included are tutorials on wiring and crossovers, and detailed instructions on how to apply a professional carpet finish.

Construction Degree of Difficulty: 3

Performance Quotient: 8

Suggested Audience Size, 1x12 configuration:

Two cabs to 150; four cabs 100-300; six cabs 250-500; eight cabs 400-800.

Recommended Sub-Woofer: Tuba 24, Tuba 30, Tuba 36, Titan 39, Titan 48

Equivalent Retail Value: 1x12 $799; 2x12 $1299

Plans are $14.95, delivered within 24 hours as email attachment in MS Word format. 36 pages, 14 photos, 71 diagrams. PDF version available on request.

Also includes an active 3D program so that you can view the cabinet in any orientation with X-Ray vision!

Can’t build your own? Contact the nearest authorized Builder for a quote.