Vibration Control for Lightweight Tube Components

Lowrider, I’d suggest trying Mapleshade Isoblock 1’s, or the lower priced generic equivalent that I think may be findable at Home Depot or elsewhere. Assuming that their 1.75 inch height can be accommodated. I say this even though the description recommends that they be used only in conjunction with isolation platforms.

Also, are you certain that the mechanical pathway by which shelf vibrations are affecting the preamp is not via the interconnect cables that are connected to it, that are probably resting on the shelf behind the preamp?

Best regards,
-- Al

The preamp sits on a shelf enclosed in thick wood (pine) open in front and back. If the shelf is tapped on, it may create resonances surrounding the unit thru the sides and shelf above it. These resonances may be picked up by the exposed tubes which are in close proximity. (The shelf is 10" high with enough room for air to circulate).
That would explain why a 30 lb. Rogue preamp picked up noise from tapping on the shelf. Does this theory make sense to anybody?

I think what you are referring to is known as a "sympathetic vibration" effect.
I suppose the possibility can’t be completely ruled out, but it seems to me to be unlikely. In part because the tube types in the two preamps are different, and also in part because you’ve been using tube dampers. Also, I’ve had many different tube components on pine shelving over the years (what is referred to as 1 inch pine, which is actually about 3/4 inches thick), without a lot of space around the components, and without ever having that kind of problem. Although I don’t think the tubes in any of those components were quite as exposed as the ones in your two preamps. (I have used anti-vibration products under the feet of many of those components, btw. The particular products I’ve used are no longer made, however).

I have no particular knowledge of or thoughts about the IsoNode feet.

Best regards,
-- Al