Shelf for VPI scout

I read a book on acoustics a long time ago that listed the properties of various woods, drywall, tile, insulation, and many more that I can't recall. Although I can't remember the name of the book I'm sure you could find something similar at your local library. That should give you the long answer to your question, if you want it.

The short answer, different materials have different acoustic properties, right? Glass has a tendency to reflect most direct sound.... depending on it's composition and thickness of course. Hard woods can be quite stiff and if done properly, can give a rich sound when used for an enclosure. Perhaps the maple shelf has the proper thickness and size to reinforce or resonate in a pleasing nature.

I hope I helped shed some light on what going on.....

Andrew
Synesthesia Studios

Symposium ultra is the best.I saw some used dude!

As a prior owner of a VPI Scout, I wholeheartedly agree that a maple plinth greatly increased the potential of the Scout. I was quite underwhelmed by the Scout when I first purchased it and had it situated on the MDF shelf of my Billy Bags rack. The maple platform transformed the sound for the better. Much more fulsome sound, better bass, more fleshed out tonal density. Never tried it on a hard glass or granite shelf, so I can't offer any perspective on that situation.