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Interaction between Vibrapods and shelf material


For some time now I have had good results with my CDP and preamp supported directly on the Vibrapod cones and isolators, placed on glass shelves in a cherry audio cabinet. I'm aware that glass is a material that can be too resonant, but I was told earlier today that during their development the makers of Vibrapods learned that there was a good interaction between these materials. I have been considering switching out the shelves for maple and would be interested in hearing about anyone's related experience.

If I understand the theoretical purpose of the Vibrapods as isolators and/or vibration reducers, is it possible that there would be limited effect linked to the platform on which they're placed?
mdvuolo
mdvuolo OP
39 posts
 
Thanks for the responses. I understand that if I'm going to consider a change to wood shelves, then I would need to change to a different coupling device, like brass points or the Black Diamond Racing cones. I don't know if there would be expected, predictable differences from my current set-up. One reviewer I read compared the BDR cones used in the standard manner (with the points resting on the shelf) unfavorably to the Vibrapods. Then he switched the orientation of the BDR cones (on a wood shelf) and obtained a superior result.

Would either of these devices tend to have more interaction with a maple shelf and, if so, would that interaction be a desirable one?
sfar's avatar
sfar
1,756 posts
 
In case you do have a use for the Vibrapods or any isolation device made from sorbothane, you can prevent them from staining wood finishes by putting a piece of plastic wrap slightly larger than the puck between them and the wood.
raks
468 posts
 
If the Vibrapods flatten out, you can put them in the oven and they'll go back to their original shape.
winoguy17
1,082 posts
 
I had the same experience as Mezmo. They eventually made a mess of anything they came in contact with. Dont use them anymore either.
mdvuolo OP
39 posts
 
Thanks for the tip, Sfar. However, I'm certainly willing to consider moving on from Vibrapods. My main question is whether there is comparative experience with other coupling devices and how those devices have possibly interacted with their platform. Would there be inherent, expected differences between such devices on wood or glass and my present set-up?
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