Audio Rack Construction

Kennythekey
Hi,I am in here late,noticed you bought your hardware already.I built salamander archetype racks a long time ago.
1.You can buy the top flat caps for 5/8 rods from audio advisor that's where I got mine back then,just tell them you need replacements for your lost caps due to dismantle/relocation!!!!!
2.For an upgrade you could buy uprights from C.R.Laurence in solid stainless stell,oh yes!!!.Price $$$$$$$$,quality top of the line with 5/16" internal threading and 1-1/4" diameter at various lengths from 2" up to 12" in multiples of two inch.
3.For the ultimate think Samson by Mapleshade oh yeah!!,you can buy their hardware but too costly OR you can get 1-1/4" solid brass threaded rods from mcmaster.com and then go see a machinist to make for you the donut shaped nuts as in SAmson racks and the footers.
The sky is the limit.If you need advice assistance to build or fill the tubing ,e-mail privately.I know a few tricks being in the trade.
Best regards
George
Enjoy the tunes!

Thanks George.

Yes, I've got everything but the tubes and they'll be here soon. I'm going to have a machinest cut them because they need to be precise and I don't have a band saw or lathe.
Everything is brass and maple but the tubes are anodized aluminum with a powder coat. I'm going to fill them as advised with lead shot for mass and no ringing. I bought the acorn nuts for the top, so I'll see how they do for now.

I have a Mapleshade platform with IsoBlocks for my table, so I'll use that on top and take it from there. I'm using the HeavyFeet with a 3/4"-10 tap for the supports. I won't use the feet for leveling but will level the shelves instead, so the feet will get maximum thread. I'll only be using two of the four shelves right away. I was going to get a headphone amp but the rack has delayed that purchase.

I'm really enjoying this and get to make it look the way I want while still saving money. From the good and consistent advice from everyone out there, I'm pretty sure it will sound real good as well. You can't ask for more than that!

Hi Kenny. I like walnut oil for the finish. In general, I'd go for oil for ease of application and touch up; walnut oil seems to create a hard finish. John

Thanks John, from the paper that Theaudiotweak provided the link to, it appears that you should steer clear of plastic based solutions.

I'm ready to drill my shelf holes but have a question. What's a good way to support the heavy maple shelf on the drill press for the corner holes? Right now, my drill press is only set up with the standard (small) metal work base.