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Poll: Which rack s would you use and why?

I have reduced the number of components in my system and sold two 5-shelf racks and a turntable stand. In the interim, before I get my new DAC, transport, line stage and turntable, I have my amps and one box CDP on the floor and the soundstage obviously got better without all the clutter. OK, here is the poll question:

I have a 14' x 17.5 ' room. My speakers are 68" out from the wall (to the front of the speaker). My amps will remain on the floor on SRA dedicated bases. That leaves me six components (including the turntable) to put on shelves (racks). Which would you use to minimize the adverse effects on the soundstage -- two lower (e.g., 31" high) three shelf racks side by side or a single higher (say 45") six shelf rack and why? I am hoping to hear from people who have tried both in their rooms as well as sound engineering type responses.

I am trying to decide what I am going to do so this is not a hypothetical question. Thanks in advance for your ideas!!!

PS - you can also recommend anything else (e.g., brands of racks. other positions options to the extent possble, etc.)

Thanks.
fmpnd
jfrech's avatar
jfrech
1,816 posts
 
Hmmm, I'm using a arcici with my SME 20/2 on the 2nd floor of my house. Sounds like I need to move it. I'm wondering how much of a sonic improvement by moving the TT to a separate rigid rack versus the Arcici top shelf. Is this really that big of a deal? (I know...most of this hobby usually is)
twl
3,251 posts
 
Mike, yes I think a lightweight rigid stand for the TT would be the best bet. Of course, it needs to be strong enough for this TT. When I said light and rigid, I didn't mean to imply "flimsy". This has to do with the vibrational modes in the stand, and the way they interact with the TT suspension. He could try both heavy and light if he wants, but my past experience with suspended TTs is that they always sound better with a light rigid stand. A well made, low stand with good rigidity and light weight would be the ticket, in my opinion.
fmpnd OP
481 posts
 
Well Guys, here is what I decided to start. I am having an Arcici Suspense Rack delivered on Wednesday to audition. It is only the 4 shelf unit (can add a fifth) not counting the bottom acrylic non-suspended shelf (which I will probably place the Manley Steelhead PS on). I will try the SME 30 on it and on a rigid rack and see what happens. If I like the other components on it but not the SME, I will then tackle the turntable issue separately. I will keep you posted and thanks for the help.
ksales
228 posts
 
I have the sistrum and their great. Lots of threads on sistrum. Do the search. As far as weight no problem. On one rack I have two 2 Proceed HPA2s, a revel LE-1 sub amp, and 3 HP110 monos. This is a lots of weight. Not even a remote problem. The folks at Star Sound would be able to give detailed reccomendations on what to put where.
chazzbo
1,007 posts
 
I don't know the answers to the questions of platforms and resonances but itis an intriguing topic.Seems as though for wood Maple is considered to be the best (see Mapleshade web site and they compare woods).But I have foten wondered if the price of things like BDR "The Shelf" is worth it.I have for convenience used Salamanders racks as they shelves are infinitely variable but I know that they are much less rigid than other designs.Wonder if materials can be added after to help.But interms of just rigidity and mass I like the Sound Anchor racks.Heavy Iron just like the speaker stands.But what about putting maple,granite,BDR etc under the component.But it does make a difference.I read somewhere that Linn designed there turntables to be placed on furniture lke dressers and end tables that it resonace would sound better than a harder metal rack or something with greater mass and rigidity.
Chazzbo
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