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Need guidance on isolation devices

I'm looking at venturing into isolation devices for my stereo. I have none, and I've been reading quite a bit, but as usual when I first get into these matters I'm somewhat confused and would appreciate guidance from experienced users.

My system is not the highest resolution, and is in transition: Rotel CD player, Rotel preamp, McIntosh MC275 (tubes). The system is in front of the speakers, about 10 feet away.

I'm thinking of building isolation platforms sitting on air (bike tubes), and sand-filled boxes. Been reading about these, about tiptoes, and about heavy weights on devices such as cdps.

Which of the above, or combinations, are better suited for each component I own?

On which component should I focus first? Where would you expect me to perceive the largest improvement in sound?

Thanks in advance!
lewinskih01
tpsonic
1,092 posts
 
Scratch the "tiptoes" and find a brass version.The originals are not expensive,but will contribute some brightness.
I'm a firm believer in "the wood effect" and the brass footers compliment this approach.Mass is important,when considering the footers.
randu
12 posts
 
A product called--unfortunately--Dead Balls from Acoustic Dreams--google the name--works well on front end gear.

I have used them vs many others and they really work; I loaned a set out to a friend and they had no lack of positives to offer. Brian at Xtreme AV sells them w/30 day guarantee
kbuzz
214 posts
 
I have not tried cones spikes or wood buti would try a bunch of the herbie's stuff as well. Ive had very positive expereinces, it easy and steve offers a money back plan...

the isol pads are also a cheap good place to start
lewinskih01 OP
909 posts
 
Thanks for the input!

I must admit, however, I'm probably not being able to understand some leads.

Been looking at Herbie's products and will probably try out something. Dead Balls seem to fall in the same camp of cones + sorbothane kind of products.

Now what about air cushioning, sand boxes, and/or weights on top of components? Scrap the idea? If not, which component first?

Thanks again!
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,199 posts
 
Would like to know what your system sits on currently?

The general rule is stereo components should sit on something very firm, heavy and solid for isolation from vibrations transmitted via floor, walls, etc.

All my components. including phono sit on a firm, standard issue, very heavy solid oak wood table that I bought in a used furniture store for $30 a few years back. The sound is clean and rock solid at all volumes. I've never detected any need to isolate any further.

Definitely avoid flimsy "audio" stands (Bush, O'Sullivan, etc.)commonly sold in retail outlets like Best Buy or Sears .
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