Killer combo--RTS couplers plus Sistrums platforms


I've owned Sistrum racks and SP-101 speaker platforms for about 2 years. I now have all my equipment on them. The drawback of Sistrum platforms is the 3 point suspension with very heavy and sometimes tall (speakers) objects sitting precariously if someone would happen to lean on or bump the object.

I agree with all those who said that the Sistrum rack made the most positive difference of all improvements put into their systems.

After reading the VERY LIMITED info on the RTS Couplers now made by Audio Horizons, I had a very lucky chance happen to me that allowed me to buy 3 sets of used couplers made by AH from a fellow Goner and I jumped on it. The couplers are designed to drain mechanical vibrations from the equipment to ground as quickly as possible, as is the Sistrum platforms. The coupler consists of a very solid pair of rectangular shaped metal bars (solid, not hollow) and a threaded rod located one on each side of the component. The bottom bar goes under the shelf with the 2 threaded rods screwing securely into the top of the bottom bar just outside of each side of the component. The top bar goes above the component and slides onto the threaded rods with a heavy duty wing nut fastening them on each side. The component sits on 2 metal pucks 2" in height which are located in the middle of the component near the front and the rear. With the nuts fastened securely on each side, the component will sit perfectly level when adjusted by a torpedo level. The underside of the top bar has a thin film on it to protect your component from scratching. There is absolutely NO chance of knocking the component over when fastened. And appearance wise, everyone that's been over to hear my system just thought the couplers were part of the rack. If stabilizing my components was all these things did for my system, they were worth it.

BUT...You are told to wait 7-13 days to actually hear what these things do for the sound of your system. THIS IS AH'S PROBLEM. If EVERYONE KNEW what these tiedown bars do for their systems, the line would be long and distinguished to get couplers of their own. Initially, there is very little change or none at all. I stopped listening and gave it a week to settle in. The sound had improved in all ways--dynamics, transparency, quiet backgrounds, beauty. Another week and the same thing happened again. The problem--how does one show this in a quick demo or at a show? It is entirely possible that they work especially well with Sistrum racks and that may be so.

If you don't try these, it's your loss. If you did and what I'm describing doesn't happen in your system, there is a long trial and return period. The couplers are the single biggest improvement I've made to this system along with the Sistrums. Jump factor, ease of listening while still getting way more information, bass that differentiates the instruments so clearly...

The system I have been using is:
VMPS RM40 BCSE with all upgrades
Modwright 5400 with all upgrades
Lenco w/ Origin Live Silver II
Soundsmith Shelter 501 MkII
Edge M6
Audible Illusions 3A w/ John Curl phono
Darwin ICs--Silver & Ascension Plus
Amadi ICs--Maddie Signature
Dual Sistrum racks
Sistrum SP-101 speaker platforms
WyWires Juice II PCs
Dynamic Designs PC
Amadi Maddie Signature SCs

dorkwad
I went to their website, and there is no mention of them. Are they discontinued?
I've looked too, so I just emailed Joseph Chow asking for some information and pictures.

Chuck
R & I,
Phone Audio Horizons directly. I get hold of them about every other call. I believe they still sell one for $240 and 3 together for a discounted price about $610 for 3.
As an add on--the RTS couplers are claimed to make a significant improvement on your system's sound with every rack. I just think there's even greater improvement due to the similar technologies with the Sistrum racks. I have no proof of the last statement however.
Pretty confusing how to use this coupler . Can somebody post a proper & clear photo of how its coupled to a component or a shelf ? Thanks