Solidsteel, after over 30 years of experience in creating supports dedicated to enhancing Hi-Fi component performance with globally recognized anti-resonance vibration-damping systems, has decided to take the next step. Supported by countless feedback from customers and industry professionals, the company has produced scientific validation for the performance of its products.
With the expertise of Prof. Ing. Dario D’Orazio, acoustics professor at the University of Bologna’s Mechanical Engineering department, and his research team, a series of technical studies were conducted. These studies aimed to analyze the vibro-acoustic characteristics of the S5-3 and HF-4 electronics racks, representing key models from the Solidsteel catalog, along with the iconic SS series speaker stands.
Detailed Vibro-Acoustic Analysis
The main objective of the analysis was to identify the parameters describing the vibro-acoustic behavior of the systems under real-use conditions, with a special focus on the materials used. This allowed for an accurate evaluation of the coherence between the system’s performance quality and its corresponding cost.
S5-3 and HF-4 Racks
Both the S5-3 and HF-4 racks were placed inside the electroacoustic listening chamber of the University of Bologna. Frequency response was measured using a pair of accelerometers positioned on different components of the furniture. To simulate real-world usage, both mechanical and aero-acoustic excitations were applied. A mechanical impulse was generated using a calibrated hammer, while aero-acoustic excitation was provided through a frequency sweep emitted from the chamber’s audio system.
The results indicated that both racks performed effectively in decoupling the shelves from each other and the structure from the floor.
SS Series Speaker Stands
The SS series stands underwent a similar analysis, with the goal of characterizing their vibro-acoustic behavior, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement. A speaker was placed atop the stands, playing a frequency sweep, while frequency response was captured by accelerometers placed on different parts of the stands. This setup effectively replicated real-world usage.
The results showed that the stand decoupled the speaker from the structure, reducing signal transmission by 10-15 dB, especially at low frequencies. The high structural rigidity, due to both the geometry and material of the stand, played a key role in its optimal performance.
Download the Full Technical Study
For those interested, the complete technical study on the racks and stands is available for download in both Italian and English.
Download S5-3 and HF-4 Study (Italian) (English)
Download SS Series Study (Italian) (English)