Custom rack, isolation under platform vs component?


Hi all,

I build my own audio rack as pictured here:

 

I should have used wood that was thicker, as it is not super rigid. If I push on it, there is some wiggle. And if I apply some torque, there is some torsion. I believe if I bolt the platforms directly to the frame, and use the isolation under the components instead of the platform, the rack will be more rigid.

 

From your experience, do isolation feet work better under the platform, or the components? 

zpatenaude37

Showing 7 responses by zpatenaude37

Thanks again for compliments.

 

@jumia I'm new to audio, but have some background in physics. From what I understand, vibration in the components can come through the ground from speakers, through the sound pressure waves in the air, and that internal components like transformers can also cause vibration. So even a solid state amplifier can end up vibrating due to these factors, isn't that accurate? 

Thank you all for the replies and compliments. And the floor is solid wood.

This was my first woodworking project. I did mortise and tenon joints. Since it was my first project, they aren't perfect joints, but the rack is definitely strong enough to hold the weight. And since it's my first time, I didn't realize when you order from Home Depot, 2x2 inch means 1.5x1.5. And 1 inch means .75 inches for the cross beams. I expected a slightly beefier rack. 

And I figured using beams instead of panels for the cross parts would offer more ventilation for the components. But now that I'll drill them directly in, that doesn't matter as much. 

Yes, thank you. I am thinking that I will bolt the platforms in to hopefully increase rigidity. I assume that would be most beneficial even if others say they prefer the feet under platform vs component. In my case the rigidity should probably be addressed first. 

And it's hard to see from the picture, but the whole rack is on bigger isolation feet, so the rack is isolated from the floor. 

Thank you guys for the advice and compliments. I bolted the platforms down and used some steel bracing for support. It is now a pretty heavy and sturdy rack, and I pained the frame black to match my speakers and components. 

 

 

Yes, you're probably right. I'm new to this and bought expensive speakers. Someone in an older thread I posted told me I'd learn a very expensive lesson. I do have a power conditioner but haven't gotten too much into those aspects. I'm sure I will and then there will be a new money pit. 

Thank you. And I added several metal brackets and I am almost completely satisfied with the rigidity. I have another set in the mail, and I'm confident that after drilling those in, it will be good. It is a solid, heavy rack where it stands. And I have Alto Extremo and Stillpoints feet for the components. Thank you for the suggestions.