I find that isolation and vibration control have a big impact on SQ particularly with tube gear. Having a solid base created through a quality rack provides a solid foundation to executing resonance control. Platforms and footers work so much better if integrated into a quality rack.
Can an audio rack be that important?
When we spend Tens of thousands on audio equipment are we losing sight on the importance of a good audio rack? I have seen many setups were ultra high end audio equipment is used sub-par equipment racks.
I have been grappling with buying a high end audio rack for sometime but have always put it off as less important.
What does a reference rack actually do for the sound of high quality components?