I found big improvements in sound when I addressed my electrical, vibration control and good room acoustic. I ran two dedicated lines. I live in a place where code requires steel conduit. Did the work myself, lots of bending steel pipes. That was a big improvement in sound. Then I added two ADD-POWR ElectraClear devices to my two new lines. That was another improvement, dropped the noise floor, added clarity. Then I swapped out the stock “better” grade wall outlets for two Hubbell HBL5362W Duplex Receptacles, if I did not hear a difference, I could return them. I did hear a difference, they stayed. (and they are coming with me when I move) For me good power cords with good clean power is a fundamental part of the equation.
Vibration control, so much… Well I built a large heavy gear rack. My inspiration was a Mapleshade Sampson rack, but I wanted a longer one than they offered, and I am frugal, so I made it. 3 shelves 61 inches by 19 made of of 2-inch-thick maple. 8 heavy steel threaded rods (1 inch thick by 36 inch) run through the 3 shelves secured with heavy brass nuts and washers above and below each shelf. The bottom ends of the rods are ground to a point. So, I have the rack coupled to the floor. Empty it weighs about 225 lb. When I lean on it at an angle with all my weight, it does not move. Vibration control of the components on the shelves are a mix of coupled to and decoupled. I use some foam sandwich blocks for less critical items. Herbie’s feet under the TT’s. I use BDR cones under the DAC and ceramic Golden Sound cones under my preamp. My amp has 3 cones stock, which I use and put Golden Sound composite cone footer underneath. For my speakers, I have tried both coupling and decoupling. For me, my system, my room, I prefer de-coupling my speakers. Hearbie’s gliders, and now spring pods. Both are good, but on my floor, concrete with vinyl planks, so far, I like the springs better.
Dimensions: 21’ × 14’ Medium
Ceiling: N/A