Racks - what’s awesome without impacting my kids college plans?

I did mine DIY and it looks great!  I used something like this as my basic plan:  
http://worldofturntables.com/audio-rack-diy/ 

For shelves, I got 3/4 MDF, and glued two pieces together so the shelves are 1 1/2 thick, and very sturdy.  You can sand off the rough edges, or as I did, use a router to put a smooth edge. Then, I painted with some "stone" paint.  And, to dress up that long threaded rod, I used a chrome shower curtain rod, and cut it to length.  It fits over the rod and bolts very nicely.  All done, it looks quite professional.   Still cost around $200 for everything, but better than $1k.   See here;  https://systems.audiogon.com/systems/7144 

Here is a better link to the DIY how-to.
https://www.tnt-audio.com/clinica/flexye.html 

Check out Chris at Timbernations....2" and or 3" Solid maple racks and platforms.  Reasonable pricing and very well made.  I've purchase a number of pieces from him with great results.  There are some decent pictures in my "Virtual System" here on Agon.
Happy listening!

You can check out http://standmanstands.com/. He makes great stuff and it won't break the bank.

Get a rack from Audio Advisor for $149.00 if this is to expensive get scrap wood from Home Depot.Good luck!!