My next project is building a licence plate 4 string.  I've got the box made out of 1/2" oak plywood and have left 1/4" larger than the plate on all sides (1/2" larger both length and width).  I was planning on cutting a 1/4" rabbit the depth of the plate so it sits flush with the top with.  I am also going to glue in 4 posts where the bolt holes are on the plate to screw into.  My question:  Should I leave the plate resting on the 'rim' as well as the posts or is it better to have the rim slightly deeper and let the plate attach only to the 4 posts so it essentially 'floats' more (I would assume more room to vibrate)?  Thanks all.

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  • You could use little screws...cali, long view

  • I think the only concern with leaving it flush is that the edges might buzz unless you silicone them down... but if you leave it open or offset from the box, will the box resonate well?   Then if you silicone it down, will that dampen the sound...   Ugh, Stuck in analysis paralysis!

     

    I'm interested in seeing what others do, too!

    • I plan on having a thin back and the plate will be "thin". Other than that, the 1/2" ply for the frame sure won't resonate much.
      • True, but the box cavity (dead airspace) will resonate...

        • I usually put in about a 1/8" recess and screw down on the 4 posts. I think the plates are usually warped enough to have a lot of freedom to vibrate but I'm not done experimenting.

  • Check with Maddog. He does the same thing. I think the edge of his plate rests in the groove along the box inside edge. He still puts posts in at the 4 hole slots, but the plate is flush. On my next two, I think I'm gonna raise the plate on posts, about 1/8" above the box. People do em both ways. You got two plates? Do one of each, see which sounds better.
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