Speaker advice

Building an arcade cabinet.  Using an old 4:3 computer monitor, an RPi3 running Retro Pie, etc.  The only thing I haven't resolved is speakers.

I want some decent stereo speakers, possibly with a sub if I can keep the budget low.  Doesn't need to be mega loud, doesn't need to be top quality.  What I do want is something I can build from components that I can integrate well - NOT buy a computer 2.1 system then take it apart.  The cabinet will be CNC cut from MDF or Plywood - if the speakers volumes need to be tuned to custom sizes or sealed or whatever it is called, we can certainly do that.

Can anyone offer any advice?  Was thinking 2" midrange, a tiny 3" sub, and a small amp.  Hoping to keep this under $30.

My first thought is a Sprite setup.  Just split it into 2 different cavities and put those where you want them...

https://sites.google.com/site/undefinition/sprite

I'd start with Parts express for components. Look at the closeouts or similar sale items.

https://www.parts-express.com/promo/clearance_center_factory_buyouts

In reply to scardeal :

That seems close to what I want, just double the price.  Each speaker is $17, the amp $20, plus you need a couple of other components.  Is there a way to make a sprite-lite for half the price?

I think you're looking for a 2-3" full-range driver, but you'd probably want suggestions on the Parts Express forums or HT Guide DIY forum.  I am still amazed that I build boxes, do a little soldering and wiring, and boom! sound comes out.

http://techtalk.parts-express.com/forum

http://www.htguide.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?6-Mission-Possible-DIY

Maybe This speaker plus this amp?

I have zero idea what additional electronics would be required.

Doh, you beat me to it.  Yeah, I may have to sign up there and ask some people.  Was hoping we had a few DIY audio junkies here.  All i want to do is buy them, do some soldering and have it work :)

https://www.parts-express.com/kinter-ma-170-2-channel-mini-amplifier-bass-treble-rca-in-2-x-18w--310-372

A Little stereo $9.88 amp with 2 x 18 watts

https://www.parts-express.com/grs-3fr-4-full-range-3-speaker-driver-4-ohm--292-436

A 3" full range driver (no filter network needed) for $4.75. You'll have to wait until they're back in stock

Thank you.  That looks like its worth a shot.

I think Dr Boost just used one of those little amps for a speaker project.

*That amp might not come with a power supply.

In reply to RossD :

Looks like it doesn't.

scardeal said:

My first thought is a Sprite setup.  Just split it into 2 different cavities and put those where you want them...

https://sites.google.com/site/undefinition/sprite

Excellent advice.

I've been building speakers since the 70's and this is very similar (same drivers, BSC, etc, separate slightly larger cabinets) to what I use in my living room.

There's good reason why these drivers are considered some of the best 3" fullrangers ever made. None of the others mentioned are even close.

I think the only way you're going to do this for under $30 is to get PC speakers and canabalize them.  

When you are able to buy individual components, they're going to be decent quality, therefore more than $7 each. What I'm saying is, unless you get a great deal, nothing you can buy for that price is worth buying. 

RossD said:

I think Dr Boost just used one of those little amps for a speaker project.

*That amp might not come with a power supply.

Yeah, I did. I bought a little 2 amp power supply. It works rather well. There are also 2.1 amps that can be had for about twice that price. I used one of the 2.1s for another project

Sorry I didn't notice the $30 requirement.