Thick 2" maple amp platform--couple or isolate?

Your sandbox sounds very promising. Didn't you post plans for that once?

I just bought a Bel Canto SET40 which is pretty big and runs super damn hot! I had purchased a Solidsteel 6.4 rack a month ago in anticipation of new gear, but I'm afraid this amp will cook whatever is above it. The stock MDF platform above the SET40 gets so hot I can't touch it.

I was using a Magro 24 wall rack and a Zoethecus amp stand before this, which created a lot of open space and allowed air to circulate around my amp. Bel Canto suggests at least 6" of clearance above it and no closed cabinets. I may have to go back to the open configuration of the Magro to insure there's enough ventilation for the amp and I don't end up starting any fires.

Your Timbernation sandbox may be another alternative for my Zoethecus amp stand. Previously, I had also thought of replacing the Solidteel MDF with 2" thick solid maple shelves or Neuance platforms. And before that I thought of building a custom Magro rack using the same metal rods, but with 1 1/2" - 2" thick maple boards.

Would spikes to concrete really be a bad idea? I've been thinking about timbernation platforms as well and maybe ganymede feet below.

This is what Chris made for me. I have one for each monoblock...four in all.
http://timbernation.com/Images/mbox.jpg

Is it the best thing out there? No idea. They work well for me, were reasonably priced IMO, come in any size I want, and the amps won't move even when my 170lb. English Mastiff decides to show off like a rodeo bull in front of the system.

I guess I should mention that I have no affiliation with Timbernation. Just a satisfied customer who likes playing in sandboxes.

Howard, I have seen those before. Nice!

If a 170lb. English Mastiff or small Mongolian Cavalry Pony can't budge your amps, those Timbernations platforms must be solid.

Dig around a bit in the sandbox and you may find some toys Marco left behind.

I have a couple of (hopefully not stupid) questions. Does it matter if the stand is unfinished or finished? Does the coating on the finished stand cause the stand to not be as effective? Thanks.