A few years ago when we were researching the PS Audio PowerBase product I spent a few weeks digging into the sonic impacts of vibration control.
What I discovered is how much of a difference a solid rack or other means of damping and controlling vibrations in our electronics makes. It’s a big deal.
It’s also a potential rabbit hole.
The more I listened and experimented the more important it seemed to me to place footers and Sorbothane dampers under each and every piece of equipment until it looked like some sort of nightmare.
Why stop there?
How do you decide to stop if everything you do matters?
Where I wound up was a compromise. I bought an excellent and sturdy shelf for the equipment, closed my eyes, turned off the OCD voices, and called it good.
Good enough.
There’s a point in every system and in everyone’s lives where practical matters supersede the temptation to go further and further.
I don’t compromise on equipment and cable upgrades but I do draw the line on just about everything else from room treatments, seating, vibration control, and even lighting enhancements.
Yes, it all matters.
But then the practical side of life gets in the way.
Paul McGowan / PS AUDIO
