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  3. 162060-4466

Velcro as Acoustic Isolation?

So, I'm wondering what folks think about using Velcro as speaker/component vibration treatment, e.g., as a damper, decoupler, isolator?  I don't think it would qualify as a coupler in the acoustic sense (just in the binding sense).  In my set-up, I have some bookshelf speakers on stands which are spiked through the carpet, and having 1" thick marble top plate attached to the base with heavy duty velcro at the corners and the center to keep the marble tight.  Aside from working very well to keep the marble plate to the base, there is a lot of surface area with the hooks and loops intertwining; and it seems to me that any vibration getting from the floor up to the base to the velcro would face a lot of mechanical dispersion in the velcro before it got the the marble (or the speakers which have another layer damping them from the marble).  As you might guess, I'm more interested in decoupling my speakers, which have plenty of tight bass by themselves, from the floor.  

What do you think?  Has anyone else used Velcro in that application or in some other way to treat components?  
128x128Ag insider logo xs@2xsumadoggie
slaw's avatar
slaw
21,147 posts
 
Actually, I think the way you're currently using it, it's acting more as a decoupleer.

I have thought about it but not very long.

I know we want to find inexpensive ways to accomplish our goals. Unless you're willing to try springs, I'm a fan of the Stillpoints SS which is a coupler/decoupleer all in one. Used isn't a bad deal.
slaw's avatar
slaw
21,147 posts
 
You could set aside the marble for any added height the Stillpoints might bring.

Stillpoints on the used market are like a bank. If you decide to sell, you'll not likely lose much at all.
sumadoggie's avatar
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sumadoggie OP
62 posts
 
Yah, I'm more interested in the theory and application of Velcro as a energy sink.  I'm perfectly happy with my set-up.  With heavy duty Velcro, the surface area involved and mechanical interface seems to be a nice way to dissipate energy running through a system as an ancillary benefit.  Or maybe not...
oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
It is a binder not a transmitter or isolator, maybe if it was hanging from Velcro. The space between the two surfaces the marble and the base of the speakers is just that a space... They are acting as isolation, but where is the vibration going? You want to transmit that away not store it in the enclosure.

By design, very dense material, with great dampening properties. Cast aluminum, HDS, Multi layer MDS. don't store vibration WELL. Think that way and things will change.

DEAD is not perfect for me... For the mids and highs..

I like a little MOJO, I get mine by the interior space, behind the driver, and usually highland wool, very dense. What I coat the inside of the enclosure with makes a lot of difference to.. Sound coat, rubber line, black hole... then driver dampening.. depends on how they are made.

Planars, round drivers, cast or punched baskets..

I use 390 lb pound HDF monitors, with 8" planars... very little vibration in that structure. There is no bass either...280 hz and down is CUT.

Bass columns, a little mojo.. There is an certain cabinet tone I look for..

Sub structures are different, green concrete... comes to mind...

Everything is different.. Everything makes a difference...Good or Bad, it makes a difference..

Regards
ebm
9,311 posts
 
Velcro and marble to losing isolation items try Symposium.
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