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Cabinet construction real wood vs. MDF
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Havok:
I'm starting to build a cab, and I am leaning towards the real stuff. I have some MDF cabinets\furniture that doesn't make it sometimes when moved.

Just wondering what is out there. I'm sure MDF is the prevalent choice, but just interested in what the rest of the community is doing...

*edit* - I am definitely referring to veneered plywood...
CJK:
I assume you are talking about oak- or birch-veneered plywood, rather than "the real stuff" (solid hardwood).

My cabinet (currently under construction) is MDF for the main panels, 3/4" birch plywood for the base, and hardwood (red oak) for selected parts (mainly the monitor frame/support).

-- Chris
AlanS17:
MDF if heavier and more prone to water damage. However, it's easier to cut, cheaper, and requires less prep work for finishing. It comes down to personal preference.

There's no reason NOT to go with MDF for the control panel, but you'll have a lighter, sturdier machine if you use plywood for the sides.
siropa:
I went with birch plywood for cab #2 main because I hate the dust from MDF. My woodshop is in my basement and the idea of routing on MDF isn't too appealing. Given all the other costs I had buying all the parts, a few bucks on the sheet goods was minor.
Avery:
I guess the $20,000 question is what are you trying to accomplish?

If you want to make a standard arcade looking cabinet and you're going to paint it and put artwork on the sides and just don't want it to go into solution if it's feet get wet, then I'd recomend A/C grade pine plywood.

If, on the other hand, you want it to look like real live honest to God furniture, well, pretty much any of the woods you listed would do the trick.

I'm going to put some cards on the table here and reveal my weird little plans....

I am currently restoring an arts and crafts house that has suffered many years of neglect.  When I'm done the machine that I'm currently building in the hull of an old gutted Berzerk cab will stick out like a sore thumb.  What I want to build next (there's a phrase to make the wife shudder) is something that looks like a colaberation between Nolan Bushnell and the Greene brothers.  That one will probably made of quarter sawn white oak and ebony with very little plywood involved.

(For those of you wondering, there's a good Greene and Greene inspired desk here: http://www.furnituremaker.com/)
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