2. misc-audio
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DIY Reference Audio Rack

I have been thinking about building a low 2 shelf wood audio rack that will hold all of my gear in a more attractive and sonically better way than my current 3 shelf (mid-fi) steel and MDF rack. My monoblocks are 22" deep and I would like those to sit on the bottom shelf (along with a power conditioner) with source, preamp and room for a turntable (in the future) on the top shelf. So basically something 24" wide by 60" long and 20" height with 2" thick shelves.

The reason I want a low 2 shelf rack is my listening area is also my TV area (NYC apartment) and I dont want to be forced to mount my plasma at an uncomfortably high viewing height. I know that having a plasma in between speakers is far from optimal but unfortunately that's my constraint.

My question is which wood would be the best choice for reference quality sound? I was thinking that Maccassar or Gaboon Ebony would be an excellent choice (my speakers also have a Maccassar Ebony veneer finish which would match nicely) but the issue there is it is nearly impossible to find slabs that wide. Ebony is usually 12" wide max which would require joining 2 boards together to make each shelf. How should two pieces be ideally joined in making a shelf? I know that many racks are made out of maple (maybe in part because Ebony is $$$$$) but wondering which wood is the best choice sonically? For further vibration control I was thinking that large screw-in AudioPoint brass cones with coupling disks in each corner would work well with wood?

Any input people can give me on this would be appreciated. Would a solidly built wood rack on Brass cone points eliminate the need for additional vibration control under individual components?
latinsamba1

Showing 1 response by tiggerfc

tiggerfc
153 posts
 
Ebony, as you described your liking is going to cost you over a grand for the lumber in the size you'll need. 2" thick is really pushing it too. I lucked out and managed a 1-3/4" thick Zebrawood shelf. It measure 15" x 20". That alone cost $180. But I had it made because I have no tools to build something even that simple. And citing the first two posters, I would have someone make this for you. You could even have them make you the pieces so you can do the final assembly. It might be a bit cheaper. But you are still looking at some serious dough for this to be made.

I also think Ebony would make a great rack due to its density which is much higher than maple. And like you, I relish the idea of using fine exotic hardwoods for any project, especially for this purpose. Good luck.
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