I don't think there is any way to predict which shelf will sound better. When I had my Linn, it sounded best with a glass shelf on the Naim rack, but MUCH better with a Neuance platform on the wall shelf. My Basis sounds best with a Corian shelf on the wall shelf. Every platform will color the sound to some degree and you just have to try it to see what you prefer.
Opinions Please - Which Turntable Rack is Better
I am moving into a new stereo room, and will consolidate my 2 channel system and headphone system, which will require space for two VPI turntables. I am currently using the VPI Turntable Stand (older 3 shelf version) with a 4.5" thick bright star audio sandbox directly under my Classic Signature. The rack legs are filled with lead shot for added damping, and I've been using oak shelves with a 2" thick bright star audio sandbox under my Hovland HP-100 Preamp with MC phono. I have no complaints about the VPI rack other than needing extra space for the second table. First world problems....
I'm considering a 48" wide tiger maple stack rack from Timbernation. Can anyone speculate as to whether the move to a tiger maple rack will be a downgrade, sidegrade, upgrade? I have been thinking about adding 4" tiger maple isolation platforms on top of the timbernation rack with BDR cones/pucks to get extra isolation directly under each turntable. Seeking opinions please! Thank you in advance!
I'm considering a 48" wide tiger maple stack rack from Timbernation. Can anyone speculate as to whether the move to a tiger maple rack will be a downgrade, sidegrade, upgrade? I have been thinking about adding 4" tiger maple isolation platforms on top of the timbernation rack with BDR cones/pucks to get extra isolation directly under each turntable. Seeking opinions please! Thank you in advance!
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Thanks for the replies everyone. I did some more research after reading some of your posts, and decided that a maple rack, while heavy, will still have its own resonance, which may/may not work with my system. I have changed direction and started looking seriously at Solidsteel racks, specifically the HS-4 and HJ-4 from their Hyperspike product line. |
I have a Core Audio plyKraft 3L rack that holds my TT (Michell GyroDec/SME IV, Clearaudio Maestro V2 Ebony). Works perfectly for me, the turntable is acoustically completely isolated. You can jump up and down (some call it dancing) right next to the rack and everything is rock solid. Don't try this at home; you can even kick the rack and the stylus does not skip! See my previous post on this system and the article in the April edition of HiFi News about this system. https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/second-system-that-sounds-and-looks-spectacular-i-am-there |
I also have a VPI turntable rack. I have a large 3" thick maple cutting board as a top and the legs are filled with sand. I have spikes between the cutting board and stand. My Clearaudio Innovation Wood sits on top. I am in the midst of a cross country move and temporarily moved my turntable to the top of my Zoethecus rack. It was a nightmare. You had to tip toe if you went anywhere near the rack. The VPI is rock solid and vibration is not a concern. The only way I would use a maple rack for my turntable again is with a lab type vibration table on top. That said, I really like a maple rack for my tube gear. I had a SolidSteel rack for a while and the Zoethecus was a huge upgrade. If it were me, I would look for a second VPI stand for the second table. |