Community members often debate the best way to handle these large-scale DIY panels, especially for vintage kits like the ETI. DIY vs. Professional Fabrication
: Cutting the panel to 19 inches allows for easy integration into standard studio racks. Cons :
: Requires access to heavy workshop tools like guillotines and punch machines.
: The industrial baking process ensures the panel can withstand frequent use in a studio environment.
: Outsourcing this specific fabrication to professional services like Schaeffer/Front Panel Express can cost upwards of €130.
: To achieve durability, the panel undergoes electrostatic powder coating . This is followed by baking at 180°C for 15 minutes, resulting in a scratch-resistant, plastic-like finish that is far superior to standard spray paint.
: The powder-coated silver finish provides a sleek, modern update to 1980s tech.
“I recommend PCB panels unless you own a proper workshop.” Reddit · r/synthdiy · 3 years ago