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Granite vs Wood DIY Audio Racks?

I recently upgraded my CDP which requires a bit more room than my current rack has to offer. While there are quite a few new racks I like, I find them to be a bit pricey so I figured I'd give DIY a shot.

The materials I'd like to use are either John Boos maple cutting boards (stained black) or granite slabs (black) which I can aquire at a local marble shop. While I prefer the granite looks wise, I rather choose the material which would sound better. Supports would be 1" threaded rod. Does anyone know where I can get 1" female threaded cones for the rods?

My listening room is on the 2nd floor and has an oak wood floor.

I appreciate any thoughts or recommendations.

Regards,
Steve
steves71
slipknot1
1,423 posts
 
I have done DIY in both mediums. My system seems to prefer the maple BoosBlock. If you want to upgrade from there, consider using brass rods, nuts and washers. Looks great with the maple, sounds better as well. McMaster-Carr has the brass hardware and they ship very fast. http://www.mcmastercarr.com

I am currently experimenting with a rack that uses 3/4" granite as a bottom shelf and Maple as a top shelf (2 shelf rack)

I use 5/8"-11 threaded rod for mine so I am not sure about 1". As far as cones go, you might want to contact Audiogon member Twl. If I'm not mistaken he is associated with a company that might be able to accomodate you.

Best of luck in your rack building project!
stehno
1,453 posts
 
Very nice system, Steves71. The 1" threaded rods are overkill and will also lead to increased expenses. I'd suggest sticking with 5/8-11 inch thread.

TWL works for Star Sound Technologies who mfg'er the best Audio Points in the business and perhaps the best rack in the business (The Sistrum rack).

I have some extra Audio Points tapped for 5/8-11 inch threads if you need some. These are custom as this thread and pitch is not a standard one they keep in supply.

-IMO
steves71 OP
28 posts
 
Slipknot1,

Thanks for your advise and leads. I see you made a very fine DIY rack... wanna sell it? and save me the trouble j/k. As for the brass 5/8-11 that maybe a better choice. Cheaper and should match nicely w/ the C-Js. I'm curious, what were the sonic differences between the wood vs the granite shelves.

Thx,
Steve
slipknot1
1,423 posts
 
Steve-
Brass can be pricey. 5/8"-11 2ft rods are about 15.00 each. Add about 60.00/shelf for the BoosBlock, and you can see how HQ racks can add up in cost.

Stenho is right-on, on the Audio Points. they are the best. You might want to take him up on the pre-tapped ones. You won't be sorry. You also might want to look at his DIY efforts too. He has some very good ideas in rack design.

As for the sound differences: In my situation, with my system, and my room, the all granite rack seemed bright, almost "ringy' in presentation. Even though it was rock solid (pun intended) and looked "mahvelous", I prefer the warmer, darker results with the gear on maple/brass. YMMV.
steves71 OP
28 posts
 
Stehno,

Sorry missed your post and thank you. Great rack you made there. I'll definitely take you up on those audio points and thanks for the offer. Please drop me an e-mail with the details.

Slipknot,

Did you buy the Boos at Home Depot or from a website? I think I'll start tomorrow if home depots carries them. Mcmaster usually gives us same day delivery so hopefully tomorrow night they'll be done.

Man, I need to know where I can buy some patience.

Thx guys,
Steve
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