This paper describes one of the projects for the undergraduate course 2.737 Mechatronics in the Mechanical Engineering Department at MIT. This project uses an 8-inch audio speaker as the basis for a one-axis vibration isolation platform. This system is intended to isolate the platform from base vibrations and also to stabilize the platform with respect to oil-board generated disturbances. This function is similar to that required for isolating precision machines such as wafer steppers and coordinate measuring machines. This project provides a context for students to deepen their understanding of frequency-domain feedback design techniques and implementation issues. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.