A simple request---Please pack audio gear well.


I just received a Rowland amplifer today via Fedex Ground. It came from within the state so it was a shorter transit time.

the amp came with a bent rear heat sink. I have not yet checked to see if it works operationally.

the amp was packed in a single, fairly thin walled cardboard box. the amp was not wrapped in plastic, so I spent 10 mins, poking out shipping peanuts out of the heat sinks.

There really needs to be guide here on Audiogon on how to properly pack audio equipment for those to follow.

Some of my suggestions

1. Never use peanuts, they are worthless, especially when shipping anything over 1 pound in weight. a 50 lb amp will render a .0001 oz piece of foam useless when it rolls on top of it.

2. double box things or use a thick walled box. Computer boxes are great if you can't double box.

3. wrap the item in something. never just pack it naked. use a garbage bag if need be. a pillowcase. USE something!

4. if you don't have something at home, use a packing professional, I have done this and the $20-$45 cost was worth the risk.

I am very worried about powering up this amp and will be using a pair of speakers I found at the flea market as the Guinea Pig while testing if it works.
128x128justlisten
Bubble wrap is great for light components, but alone isn't enough for heavy amps or speakers. Their corners will cut right through it and be destroyed the first time the package is drop-kicked. I've been the recipient of amps poorly packed in bubble wrap. Speakers too.

I have found that the solid foam insulation from home depot is great. it comes in various thickness (1" - 2") and also different densities (white vs pink). They sell it in panels 2ft x 8ft for anywhere from $5 to $12 depending on thickness and type. It also comes in 4ftx8ft size. It cuts to size very nicely.

If I use peanuts, I put them in a poly bag and seal it up with tape. It helps prevent shifting, and is also much friendlier to the receiver.

DIY boxing & packing with substantial improvements via ply & foam, are IMO, the way to go. Especially if one has an item they wish to continue modding, or upgrading with the maker. Additionally, for those selling expensive one off, or no longer made products.... and for overall peace of mind.

Personally, I could care less what sort of packing (orig. or DIY) an item arrives safely within... Just so long as it DOES ARRIVE WITHOUT EXCEPTION (S).

Peace of mind is a priority for me. sometimes it has a price tag. it's price however pales in comparison to the cost of trying to regain it if some misfortune occurs, and outlay was not previously expended appropriately.

has anyone any experience with those who sell flight cases custom made for gear? Like Pelican, etc...???
Blindjim- I just received an APL 3910 in a flight case and it arrived just fine. IIRC, they are doing a joint purchase of flight cases for 3910s (I expect that they fit most of the recent Denons) over on the apl forum.
I just bougt a Mac mc2105 it was TRIPLE boxed with a layer between each box, not flimsey boxes either these were nice heavy boxes. This thing could've been dropped from 100' and been fine.