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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?  
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millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
Nope. Not even. What you want are springs. The easiest solution is Nobsound springs from Amazon, only about $30 for a set of 4. The way these work you remove springs based on component weight. If your speakers weigh less than about 75lbs each then you will be able to get by with one set by using the springs removed from one to create another.  

The harder and hardly any cheaper way is to hunt around for just plain springs, which you can probably find for under $30 for 8. The hard part being you have to shop around for the right springs based on size and loading. It can be done. I did it. They're mostly what's under mine. Its just very time consuming to find the right ones.  

Then there is the best by far solution which is Townshend. Depending on your speaker size you may want Pods but probably Podiums. These are springs too but much better engineered, much more easily adjustable, and sound quality that is far superior to any of the other options. They do cost a lot more but you definitely get what you pay for.
slaw's avatar
slaw
22,299 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
22,299 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...
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