The construction of two demonstrators of thermoacoustic engines is proposed in this paper, using
common material from hardware stores. A brief discussion about the thermoacoustic effect highlights
the main parameters controlling the generation of self-sustained acoustic oscillations from heat.
The construction of the two tabletop demonstrators is then described in detail, so that they can be
reproduced with minimum equipment (rice, steel wool, and other hardware easy to find in hardware
stores). Experimental results are also presented for both engines and a discussion about their use
for teaching purposes is provided.