Which Rack Is Better?


I am in the market for an audio rack, and I've narrowed my options down to three: in order of increasing cost, the Atlantis Reference, the Polycrystal, and the Zoethecus Reference. As I see it, the advantages of each are as follows:

1) The Atlantis Reference is very heavy and sturdy, it has a larger space at the bottom for a power amp, all shelves are 3/4-inch MDF and are spike-decoupled, and the price is only around $500.

2) The Polycrystal has anti-resonant shelves, and has adjustable spacing between shelves. It has been very well reviewed, and costs a lot more money.

3) The Zoethecus has the anti-resonant z-slab shelves, is superior aesthetically to the Polycrystal, and is even more expensive. I would need to special-order it, unless I could find one with a larger space at the bottom on Audiogon.

I believe that my system (Denon 1650AR/Bryston BP-20/Aragon 8008BB/Thiel 3.6/Pro-SilwayII/Oval9) is good enough that I would hear any significant sonic differences between the racks.

Which of these racks would be the better choice, i.e., would there be enough of an improvement over the Atlantis Reference to justify the higher cost?

Thanks for your input.

Alan
a_hayman

Showing 2 responses by fpeel

I own an Atlantis Reference and looked closely at the Zoethecus. The Polycrystal is an unknown.

After a year of using the Atlantis here are the high points: Decent and reasonably durable finish (mine's the black lacquer). Shelves are wide and deep enough for all but the largest of gear. Adequate clearance between shelves as well. Downsides: Shelf bracket holes not properly aligned which makes leveling shelves a challenge. Threaded insert in base for footers poorly done; one of mine has worked loose and needs to be repaired. The latter two can be "re-engineered", but shouldn't be necessary. All in all, for the money it's a good deal, but not something to will to the kids.

The Zoethecus rack I looked at was impressive. Excellent fit, finish and eye toward detail. Wide variety of shelf options, too.

Were I to do it over I'd consider buying the Zoethecus rack, but instead of their shelves would go with the ones from Neuance. The latter would be cheaper (if memory serves well) and, according to reports here, are worth their cost.
Not familiar with the PS line, but have you thought of refinishing one of the rosewood racks in black? Might be worth the effort if it is a good deal and a nice rack.