GIK alternatives


Last month, an audiophile colleague inquired about GIK acoustics on this forum. I shared my experiences as a longtime customer. I pointed out episodic challenges with build quality but a highly responsive staff. I have changed my impression and would not recommend them. GIK has recently changed CEO and several longtime colleagues appear to have left. Their prices have increased, especially for shipping. I’ve been attempting to place an order by phone without success. And their product lead time is extraordinary. For example, I was informed that routine scatter plates would not be shipped out for 2 months. They’re having problems. Any recommendations for alternative companies?

wfowenmd

Stillpoints Apature panel much better not cheap though worth every penny.

I'll chime in as well since I had a positive experience with GIK. I ordered 244 absorption panels, Alpha diffuser/absorbers, soffit and tri-trap bass traps all in an optional fabric and color. 

 

While the time from order to delivery was slightly longer than originally quoted, they were very communicative and expedited shipping so that stuff would be sent as they were ready. In terms of quality, I have no complaints and everything was made to a good standard with no damage when received. 

This is kind of related 'on the side'. Maybe someone can help out with this. I read not too long ago, in an issue of Stereophile, that there was an abandoned nuclear site in Washington state. Stay with me, this is a little weird but related. The site was later used for the acoustical testing of loudspeakers and acoustic absorbers. Before getting into this area, I am sure that you would benefit from reading this article. Much of what I understood before was off the mark, as well as the science behind such thinking to begin with. The intent is credible, to be sure, but the application is much different than I would have imagined.

Lots to absorb here (ha ha) but one thing is standing out:  So far, I haven't seen any negative comments about ATS.

That's impressive, because *ANY* company will have mistakes along the way which upset a customer here and there, so you always expect at least a few negative posts.

Somehow these guys (and gals?) are on a very good streak of success. I think I will check out their corner traps.

For basic absorption panels, I've also had good luck with Silent Source, particularly their Guilford of Maine wrapped "Acoustic Wall Panels". These do not have any wood framework - they are made from PCF glass fiberboard with resin-hardened edges. I've had some panels in my living room that I installed 15 years ago that still look fabulous. They are right near a large window and get lots of sunlight, but haven't faded or discolored at all. 

These panels are lighter than the wood framed panels which makes them really easy to hang, and are available with a nice beveled edge (as well as other edge treatments). Here's a photo of the panels in my living room.

I recently ordered a bunch more of their panels for my main listening room which you can see on my virtual system page - these panels are on the side walls next to the speakers..