Dinas - Do I need a Subwoofer Build Plans
DIY SPEAKER PLANS

Epic Hifi Bookshelf Speaker Plans

Full-range DIY Build - no subwoofer required

Deep, room-filling bass and clear, detailed highs in a compact design built to perform without a separate subwoofer.

$30.00
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Experience the Speakers

Do You Really Need a Subwoofer?


JoeNTell puts the original Active DINAS to the test, including bass extension, sound quality, measurements, and how they perform as compact desktop speakers.

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WHY BUILD THE DINAS?

A Subwoofer in Every Speaker

DINAS stands for “Do I Need a Subwoofer?” — and that question is really the entire reason these speakers exist. Each cabinet combines a dedicated subwoofer with a separate midrange and tweeter, allowing the DINAS to reach surprisingly deep while remaining compact enough for a desk, living room, game room, or stereo system.

The original Active DINAS uses a dedicated amplifier in each speaker, allowing the bass, midrange and tweeter sections to be powered as an integrated system. The newer Passive DINAS takes the same basic idea and makes it easier to integrate with traditional audio gear by using a passive crossover and a side-firing passive radiator.

Whichever version you choose, the goal is the same: big, full-range sound without needing a separate subwoofer taking up additional space.

Deep Bass Without a Separate SubThe DINAS reach into the low 30Hz range, giving you genuine full-range performance from a compact speaker.
Compact DesignAt roughly 12.5" tall, 7.5" wide and 10" deep, the DINAS deliver far more bass and output than their size suggests.
Choose Active or PassiveBuild the self-powered original or choose the newer passive version and pair it with your favorite 4-ohm-capable amplifier.
CHOOSE YOUR VERSION

Passive or Active — which DINAS should you build?

PASSIVE Use your favorite amplifier

Passive DINAS

The Passive DINAS are the version I would choose if you already have an amplifier or receiver you like and want the easiest integration into a traditional stereo system.

They use a custom passive crossover and a side-firing passive radiator instead of the original slot port. That simplifies the cabinet construction and eliminates the need to install an amplifier inside each speaker.

The finished speaker is nominally 4 ohms, so you'll want an amplifier or receiver rated to handle a 4-ohm load.

Best if you want:
  • Traditional speaker-wire connection
  • Freedom to choose your own amplifier
  • Simpler electronics inside the cabinet
  • Passive-radiator bass loading
  • Approximately 32Hz extension
AMPLIFIER TIP

For the Passive DINAS, I recommend an amplifier with an adjustable bass control or EQ. That gives you the freedom to dial in how much low-end output you want and really take advantage of what the woofer can do.

ACTIVE Amplification built in

Active DINAS

The Active DINAS are the original self-powered concept. Each speaker contains its own 2.1 amplifier, allowing the bass section and upper drivers to be powered within the speaker itself.

Instead of normal speaker wire from a power amplifier, the Active DINAS accept a line-level/RCA signal. For stereo use, that can come from a preamp or 3.5mm-to-RCA source. For home theater, they can be connected to a receiver or processor with preamp outputs.

The Active version does require a little more hands-on electronics work, including soldering connections directly to the amplifier.

Best if you want:
  • A self-powered speaker
  • Integrated amplification
  • Independent control of the bass section
  • Line-level / RCA connectivity
  • The original DINAS design
BUILT-IN BASS CONTROL

The Active DINAS already give you independent bass-level adjustment through the built-in amplifier, so you can tune the low end without needing that control on an external amp.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Everything you need to build it.

Step-by-step build guide

Detailed instructions with diagrams

Cabinet dimensions & diagrams

Measurements and build information

Crossover design & wiring

Component values and wiring details

Materials & Parts Information

Drivers, electronics, hardware and recommended components

Bass-system setup

Passive-radiator information for the Passive DINAS or port information for the Active DINAS

PARTS LIST

What you'll need

The main drivers are shared. Then choose the Passive or Active parts for the version you're building.

Prices and availability can change. Use the links below to check current pricing and stock before starting your build.
Affiliate disclosure: Some links on this site are affiliate links. TOID may earn a commission if you purchase through them, at no additional cost to you.
BOTH VERSIONS

Shared Speaker Components

Use these components for either version. Quantities are per speaker.

ComponentQtySource
Tang Band W5-1138SMF 5-1/4" Subwoofer 1 per speaker Check Price & Stock →
Dayton Audio RS100-4 1 per speaker Check Price & Stock →
HiVi TN28-B Tweeter 1 per speaker Check Price & Stock →
PASSIVE DINAS

Passive DINAS Components

Add these parts when building the Passive DINAS.

ComponentQtySource
Passive Radiator 1 per speaker Check Price & Stock →
Rubber Feet 1 set Check Price & Stock →
Binding Posts 1 set Your Choice
Passive Crossover Components See plans Details in Plans
ACTIVE DINAS

Active DINAS Components

Add these parts when building the original Active DINAS.

ComponentQtySource
Lepai 2.1 Amplifier 1 per speaker Check Price & Stock →
19V Power Supply 1 per speaker Check Price & Stock →
Port Components See plans Details in Plans
DIMENSIONS & COST

Finished size & estimated cost

Height12.5 in.
Width7.5 in.
Depth10 in.
Estimated parts costApprox. 300-400 a pair

Prices fluctuate — check current links before ordering.

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