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  3. 1150734662

Boost system performance via isolation?

Hi

I need help.

I found out last year just how important isolating devices can become. I've taken some steps in that direction but feel there may well be a better path than the inexpensive Vibra items. Which for the money surely are worthwhile devices.

In isolating components such as CD player, tubed preamp, and over a hundred pound SS amp. I have a rack from “HE..” (a bit south of Heaven, if that helps).

I do understand the rack itself, plays a big part but I’ve been unable to address that aspect as yet. So I’ve tinkered with it enough so the sound is pretty good now. Using homemade and mainstream products such as Vibra Pods. Currently Vibra-pod cones & pods, as well as doing some ‘layering’. Using a sandwich sort of configuration….

ON each shelf of the rack, from bottom up, I used a piece of ¾” MDF > CONES > ½” particle board (shelf) > Pods > component. Results aren’t bad but i would like to improve upon things, especially with the amp and preamp. Also a 400 disc carosel and a couple lightweight items too such as a DAC and DVD player.

I've done nothing with the amp... just CDP & preamp.

Anyone using something other than ‘Vibra-Pods’ & Vibra-cones, that have seen definite improvements in their system… I would sincerely appreciate hearing from you… and how it changed things… and naturally what those devices are.

I’m not looking to go off for tons of bucks here but would sincerely like to get an idea of who really does make effective isolation devices for components of varying weights andd function… eg., rotating, tubed, SS, etc….

Many thanks
blindjim

Showing 6 responses by tvad

tvad
9,467 posts
 
I like Aurios Pro and Symposium Rollerblocks under my tubed gear. FIM makes a product along the same lines as the Aurios and Rollerblocks that looks like it might be worth a try. It's advertised in the listings.

Also, I like the Neuance platform from Greater Ranges under my digital source.

All of these can be purchased used for around $200/ea if you watch the listings (the Neuance platform is new at that price).
tvad
9,467 posts
 
I'll take a stab, although the info is regurgitated from the Symposium and Aurios websites, and I don't claim to have all the facts straight...

Three vs. four...
This has always been a major question for me as well. Essentially, it's easier to level three isolation devices than four, and three devices is one less through which vibration can travel.

Symposium recommends placing the three Rollerblock devices directly against the chassis, since this drains vibration more effectively. Arrange the devices so they essentially support the center of mass. In other words, you wouldn't place them in an equilateral triangle with the points centered unless the center of mass (generally dictated by the power supply's location) was in the center of the component. You want to shift the triangle so it favors where the weight is distributed...and the triangle does not have to be equilateral.

Finally, Syposium Rollerblocks come with stainless steel plates that are placed between the balls the the component's chassis bottom. Symposium suggests placing the plates so they come into contact with chassis screws, if possible. The theory being the chassis screws are focused sources of transmitted vibration. Believe It...Or Not...
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Mass loading (putting some weight on top) components is supposed to reduce external vibration. It's worth a try. I sometimes put a 5# weight on top of my CD player. Can't say if I notice a difference, but intellectually I think it should be beneficial.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
I use a Salamander Synergy cabinet, and use isolation devices with it...Neuance shelf, Aurios and Rollerblocks. One great thing about Ken Lyons is that he will custom make a Neuance shelf to exact dimensions. He made one to replace a Salamander stock shelf. When I received the Neuance, it was 1/8" off...my error, not Ken's. He gladly resized the shelf 1/8" smaller, and it's a perfect fit.

The Salamander systems are not designed with isolation in mind, but I find that mine is quite sturdy, and I could absolutely not live without the rolling casters.

I have looked at the Adona products, and they appear very good for the money.
tvad
9,467 posts
 

06-26-06: Cdc
I've used rollerblocks and did not like the sound. No one wanted to buy them from me so I guess they are not a popular item.
Should have emailed me. :)

You might have experienced a lack of interest depending on when you tried to sell them. Now is not a good time. In any case, don't assume that because you did not sell yours that they are not a popular item. I've seen periods where several sets have sold within a few weeks of being listed.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
06-26-06: Cdc
I should explain. While rollerblocks are directly coupled to the shelf unlike isolation devices like sorbothane, pneumatic, or magnetic levitation; they are still undamped in the horizontal plane.
Undamped IMHO, means the CDP rings and adds strange harmonic content.
Thanks for clarifying, and I should do the same. I use the Rollerblocks under my tubed preamp. I prefer a Neuance isolation platform under my CD player.

I am fairly certain that no product will sound the same in all systems, which is why experimentation is so important...and fun.
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