European Vibraplane?


I was trying to find an EU analog of the Vibraplane and came across Iso-Plate from Thor Labs:

http://www.thorlabs.de/NewGroupPage9.cfm?ObjectGroup_ID=2612

The specs look a bit worse then Vibraplane 2210 (resonant freq. is said to be at 3.5max vs 2.5Hz). The pricing, esp. without the breadboard is aceptable. I'm wondering if anyone has tried it?

Cheers,
bydlo
bydlo

Showing 3 responses by albertporter

I would not be concerned with the small difference in resonant frequency.

I see the Thor is priced in USD. You say EU analog of Vibraplane, is the Thor available where you live for a great price? I notice they have a web link to distributors so perhaps best to contact one near you with questions.

With any of these active platforms shipping is one of the overlooked factors. They typically weigh between 150 and 200 pounds before addition of the required air pump.
I have not heard that model but it's design is similar to Vibraplane. It should work wonders with your audio components, especially if you need to isolate a turntable.

In short, I would have no concerns purchasing it, especially if you have some guarantee and shipping is not too dear.

If that does not work out, another option is a used Vibraplane at Audiogon or Ebay. Only the air pump requires voltage match with your location. The Vibraplane itself is completely mechanical.

Here is an example of used Vibraplane. They can be had for less.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/KINETIC-SYSTEMS-BENCHMATE-2212-VIBRATION-FREE-BENCH-PLATFORM-04-0727-WORK-TABLE-/260937207590?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3cc111cf26

We discuss all the exotic options when most have their turntable sitting on spikes on a wobbly stand.

A single Vibraplane is a miracle under a turntable and very cost effective. Four Stillpoints Ultras is $900.00. You can purchase a used Vibraplane for that and pick up a cheap pump and be in business.

I don't know about Newport Corp. that Geoffkait mentions, but Vibraplane is a product of Kinetic Systems and is only one of several isolations stands they offer.

Here is specs on Vibraplane I purchased. Good numbers and good price.

Horizontal Natural Frequency 1.8 Hz

Isolation Efficiency @ 5 Hz 81%

Isolation Efficiency @ 10 Hz 95%

Net Load Capacity @ 80 psi 450 lbs.