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Other Stuff => Archived Manufacturer Circles => Herbie's Audio Lab => Topic started by: Herbie on 6 Aug 2009, 12:22 am

Title: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 6 Aug 2009, 12:22 am
Hi. Herbie's Audio Lab get lots of inquiries about our products and we always reply as promptly as possible. General recommendations are easy to make with our products because of their wide latitude of adaptability. A better-tailored reply and recommendation is sometimes possible though, when sufficient information is provided.
 
Imagine you are a tire dealer and you get an inquiry like, "I have a car; what kind of tires should I get?" Well, you might be inclined to provide a generic recommendation such as, "I recommend Goodyears." With more information about what kind of vehicle it is and what kind of driving will be done, a more precise recommendation can be made. Given specific circumstances you might still recommend Goodyear, or something else.

Likewise, the more information I have, the more confident I feel when making a recommendation. If making an inquiry, please include as much information as might be relevant and some idea of the sonic direction you're looking for.
 
No need to go overboard with lots of details, but a general idea of your system and needs can be quite helpful for me and for you.
 
We welcome inquiries via e-mail, phone, or through AudioCircle.
 
Before making an inquiry, however, I recommend visiting Herbie's website. Product descriptions are concise and straightforward, usually providing all the information you need. Product "FAQ" pages and customer reviews/comments pages are also helpful. You know your system best and would probably have a better "sense" for what would benefit your system once you are familiar with our products.

Thanks,

Steve Herbelin
Herbie's Audio Lab (http://herbiesaudiolab.net/index.htm)
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: blueflog on 15 Dec 2011, 11:45 pm
Hi Steve,

I'm new here, your products look quite value oriented. Do you have a general direction for me to follow? I'm in the process of bringing a two channel system together. Sources include a Pro-ject RM 5.1 table, a Marantz SA series CD player, Belles, 21A/ Belles 150 amps, Acoustic Zen Adagio speakers, based on a first level suspended hardwood floor (75 year old house) My question is this, do I house this system with basic furniture racks/cases and apply a variety isolation products, or do I put more stock into a structure with exotic materials as granite, soapstone, metals and wood and allow the mass of the shelves/ frame to isolate the system? Budget is a major issue at this point...


Andrew
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 17 Dec 2011, 11:42 pm
Hi, Andrew. Mass of the frame/rack will not isolate the system. There is no frame or platform that is a whole isolation solution if your'e still using the components' factory feet. Coupling to granite, soapstone, metals, or wood introduces the sonic character of those materials into the music. All of these materials have sonic character to some degree. Many, soapstone in particular, have profound sonic influence that is anything but sonically neutral or musical.

Decoupling and isolating audio and video components vastly reduces the sonic influence of the rack, though the rack and shelves still play some role in the vibrational environment.

With effective isolation of the individual components, a basic, sturdy rack is usually more than sufficient to allow a very high degree of the components' inherent potential to be delivered. (With a more exotic and expensive rack, the same individual component isolation would still be needed to more fully realize the components' true potential.)

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab (http://herbiesaudiolab.net/)
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: C-Diddy on 4 Jan 2012, 02:28 am
Greetings!  Im upgrading my audio system (on a young jazz musicians budget) and am trying to assemble the right army of Herbie's tools.  At home I primarily listen to vinyl and have a turntable and some JBL speakers that were my father's.  I've literally grown up listening to music on this system and its been a lot of fun to upgrade it and hear the impact piece by piece. I just implemented your Way Extreme Mat and some Square Dots on the JBLs.  A Marantz PM5004 is on the way to replace the old original Technics receiver...

Quick breakdown: Technics SL-1300 (w/ recently added Way Extreme Mat, new RCAs, etc)
                         Marantz PM5004
                    2   JBL L-166s (currently on 4 Square Dots a piece)

All of this is sitting on hardwood (with rugs, furniture, etc its a decent sounding room).

Im building a Flexy Rack this week for the gear.

What would you suggest for underneath the (3) legs of the Flexy?

I was also thinking of creating a makeshift turntable platform by using a second piece of shelving (MDF) sitting on 4 Extra Thick Grungebusters.  Then placing the turntable on top with 4 Tenderfeet.  Would this be effective??

The Square Dots (plus the Way Extreme turntable Mat) on the JBLs made a huge impact in bass definition and clarity.  Is there a more substantial product that would more suited underneath the speakers?  If so I could move my 8 Square Dots underneath the Marantz and my DVD player....?

Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!!!!!

Thanks
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 4 Jan 2012, 03:49 am
Hi, C-Diddy. To isolate and decouple the flexy rack, I recommend a Fat Grounding Base under each leg.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=55912)

Shelving on Extra-Thick grungebuster Dots and Tenderfoot isolation feet on top should be ideal for the turntable support. Baltic birch plywood would be better to use than MDF, though.

Square Fat Dots are ideal under the speakers. They're made of the same dBNeutralizer material that most all of Herbie's loudspeaker isolation products use. Other dBNeutralizer products allow use on carpet, add mobility and/or leveling, though they are not necessarily more substantial sonically. You're best to keep the Square Fat Dots to loudspeaker, platform, and rack tasks, and use Tenderfoot isolation feet under the Marantz and DVD player.

Best regards,

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab (http://Herbie%27s%20Audio%20Lab)
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: C-Diddy on 4 Jan 2012, 03:09 pm
Great! Thank you very much.  Would you recommend Baltic Birch Ply for the whole rack or just the TT platform??
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 12 Jan 2012, 12:33 am
Baltic birch plywood is great for all the shelves of a flexy rack.

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Salectric on 27 Jan 2012, 12:50 pm
I need a product recommendation.  I have a heavy non-suspended turntable (roughly 100 lbs) that sits on a wood platform (18 x 24) that in turn rests on top of a Sound Anchors steel stand.  The wood platform is presently solid maple but I also have a 2" Baltic Birch platform that I will be trying soon.  The wood platform is supported at each corner by the vertical steel support of the SA stand.  My question concerns what type of interface to use between the wood platform and the SA stand.  Right now I am using a slightly squishy furniture foot that I got at the hardware store.  I think it's called a "Bump On" and it's sort of a cube about 3/4" per side.  I have tried direct contact between the platform and the SA stand, and that is not satisfactory because it allows some floor vibrations to come through the playback at high levels.  Clearly some kind of compliant material is needed.  The Bump Ons do the job in that respect since I am never bothered by people walking around in the room while a record is playing, but I doubt they are the best product sonically. 

What would you recommend?
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 27 Jan 2012, 02:15 pm
Hi, Salectric. Herbie's Audio Lab has lots and lots of customers using grungebuster Dots or Extra-Thick grungebuster Dots between platform and stand or shelf with excellent results. By your description, I recommend Extra-Thick grungebuster Dots. Four 1" Dots is usually sufficient; though five or six would be good with such a broad platform. Just about any diameter would be appropriate if you feel a size different than 1" diameter would fit the application well.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=57033)
Extra-Thick grungebuster Dots (http://herbiesaudiolab.net/gb.htm#MiniDot)

Our customers have replaced cones, Vibrapods, cork-and-rubber sandwiches, and other interfaces with grungebuster Dots, virtually always getting better results with the Dots.

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab (http://herbiesaudiolab.net)
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Stubert on 8 May 2012, 12:35 pm
Hi Steve

Long time listener, first time poster.

After inheriting 200+ LPs from a mate who is sadly departed, I decided to invest a little and purchase some equipment to listen to them. I have a Rega RP1 TT, a vintage Pioneer amplifier (circa 1975 - although am currently saving to upgrade to a Rega Mira amp) and a Pioneer tuner. The amp powers  2 Krix floorstanding speakers (about 15kg each). These components are set up on sturdy wooden shelving (3 shelves high, with a flat base), located fairly close to one of the speakers.

I am keen on using some of your products to dampen any vibration / isolate my components. I have a very old house with bouncy floorboards which carry bass throughout the whole place (even into the backyard!).  Ive been scrolling through your circle & looking at your products on your site. I am new to the audiophile world (but loving it), so I have a few questions about the products I figure will help to isolate my components and give me better sound. If you have any better suggestions, I would greatly appreciate it (as a  student, I'm on a reasonably tight budget)

For the turntable, I am thinking Isoballs: Do I need to remove the Rega feet?, and would I need 3 or 4  of them? (the TT has only 3 feet).

For the shelf / rack and speakers, I am thinking Fat Dots: Will these lessen the impact of vibration into the rack from footsteps / bass etc? Also is there any other way I can reduce vibration within the rack itself (eg grungebuster dots etc)? - as its located close to one of my speakers.

Finally for the Amp & Tuner, I am thinking Tenderfeet: again, is 3 or 4 preferable?

I know this is a lot of questions, but I really need to reduce the hum and the impact of bass on my listening enjoyment. Your products are very highly rated, and I want to purchase the right gear first off.

Kin Regards

Stu

Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 25 May 2012, 03:44 pm
Hi, Stu. Sorry for the late reply; I must have missed the notice. You don't necessarily need to remove the stock feet on the Rega to use IsoBalls. Though three will usually suffice, four is usually audibly better.

Fat Dots and any of Herbie's dBNeutralizer-based loudspeaker and rack decoupling products are very effective at reducing the impact and consequences of floorborne vibrations. Grungebuster Dots placed between shelf and shelf support are superb at helping to isolate the rack.

Four Tenderfoot isolation feet each for amp and tuner are ideal.

Steve Herbelin
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: poseidonsvoice on 17 Nov 2012, 01:52 pm
Which turntable mat size for a VPI Traveler?
Thx,
Anand
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: jtwrace on 17 Nov 2012, 01:56 pm
Which turntable mat size for a VPI Traveler?
Thx,
Anand
Does VPI say to use one?  On my VPI C1, I go bare and it's best by a long ways. 
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: poseidonsvoice on 17 Nov 2012, 02:32 pm
Does VPI say to use one?  On my VPI C1, I go bare and it's best by a long ways.

Prrfect, thanks!

http://jeffsplace.me/wordpress/?p=396

I figure the same with the Traveler since it is also an aluminum platter...

Anand.
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 17 Nov 2012, 04:01 pm
Hi, Anand. Unlike the VPI Classic, the Traveler is intended by the manufacturer to be used with a platter mat. A Way Excellent II-2mm Turntable Mat is a superior upgrade in place of the Traveler's stock integral mat. (VPI Classic is a rare exception in that virtually all other aluminum-platters need a mat.)

BTW, we have lots of customers using a full-size Way Excellent II-2mm Turntable Mat on VPI Classic turntables with "way excellent" results. Unlike felt, cork, or rubber mats, the Way Excellent II mat significantly improves the performance of the VPI Classic when VTA is adjusted to compensate for the mat's thickness.

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: poseidonsvoice on 18 Nov 2012, 04:55 pm
Hi, Anand. Unlike the VPI Classic, the Traveler is intended by the manufacturer to be used with a platter mat. A Way Excellent II-2mm Turntable Mat is a superior upgrade over the factory mat and highly recommended.

BTW, we have lots of customers using a full-size Way Excellent II-2mm Turntable Mat on VPI Classic turntables with "way excellent" results. Unlike felt, cork, or rubber mats, the Way Excellent II mat significantly improves the performance of the VPI Classic when VTA is adjusted to compensate the mat's thickness.

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab

Steve,

Thanks. I will contact Mathew Weisfeld and ask him for his thoughts to be thorough with my search. I will report back here with his advice. Specifically the question will be, should the Traveler be used with or without a mat.

Best,

Anand.
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: poseidonsvoice on 20 Nov 2012, 05:08 pm
Steve,

Thanks. I will contact Mathew Weisfeld and ask him for his thoughts to be thorough with my search. I will report back here with his advice. Specifically the question will be, should the Traveler be used with or without a mat.

Best,

Anand.

Mathew Weisfeld recommended the use of a mat with the Traveler. He did not recommend using the platter naked. I'll have to check and see what size the mat should be.

Best,
Anand.
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Hifimanrookie on 27 Nov 2012, 09:06 pm
Hi, i am new to this..but i just got into the higher end audio scene by buying a hifiman he500 headphone and a huge 18 kg beast of a darkvoice 337 tube amp..and i need advice on dempening as the standard feet are bogus, i even found out they are not even leveled!..i understand that the iso-cup with the supersonic hardball is specific made for those kind of amps..and i understand that 3 feet is better then 1 for stability?
Pls advice

Ps i insert a few pics so u have an idea what amp it is..last pic is at a meet.. :green: :green: :green:

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=71455)


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=71456)


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=71458)

Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Hifimanrookie on 27 Nov 2012, 09:09 pm
By accident put a pic twice..my apologies..i wanted to put this pic on


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=71459)
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: 4krow on 12 Apr 2013, 12:24 am
Steve,
  I just ordered tube dampers for my 3S4 tubes, and will have a good listen when they arrive. Next, I am thinking that the smaller dots may be the way to go for replacing the Sorbothane feet under the unit. Also the tenderfeet would work, but at only 3-4 lbs, do you think that the smaller dots would be appropriate?
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=78635)
 Thanks for your time.

               Greg Peyton   P.S. All the tubes in my system will probably get the dampers, thanks for a quality product. 
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 30 Apr 2013, 03:20 am
Baby Booties or Tenderfeet should do very well. Tenderfoot isolation feet, TenderSoft version, would most likely be the best choice for optimal sonic results.

(With compliant footers like Herbie's Tenderfeet, four is almost always better than three. With four, you get better lateral stability, more versatility with placement of the footers, the areas of the component chassis are more evenly divided for vibration control, you have more vibration absorbing and blocking "beef" to do the job, and most importantly you'll virtually always get an audibly superior result.)

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: kbuzz3 on 18 May 2013, 09:10 pm
Steve-any suggestions for a vintage sherwood tube integrated?  Iso/ebony? Tall tenderfeet?  Below is a pic of the uneven bottom of the chassis.  Feet also appear to be removable.  Unit will rest on an ikea lack table or a wall shelf which appears to be drywall.  Thanks
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=80733)

Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 18 May 2013, 09:55 pm
I recommend trying four Extra-Firm Tenderfoot isolation feet under the amp and an UltraSonic SS Damping Instrument for each of the small-signal vacuum tubes.

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: jeff67 on 3 Jun 2013, 03:13 pm
Herbie,
I have an unusual implementation of one/more of your products.  I want to isolate the motor mount assembly from the frame on my VPI MKIII.  You can think of the way the motor assembly is attached to the frame as I holding a sandwich with one hand to eat:  the hand being the motor assembly plate(s) and the sandwich being the frame.  I do not want to buy an after market SAMA unit.   I believe I can employ some of your products to do this.   I do NOT have a problem modifying the frame to accomplish this.   My thought is to 'carve' a relief in the frame where the motor mounting plate(s) meets the frame (top side and bottom) and using a 'stand-off' affair to isolate the motor assembly from the frame.   I would then make a cylindrical cut out (using a forstner bit to make the relief hole) to place either the grunge busters washers, or modify (drill a hole thru) the baby booties and place them in the relief hole (top and bottom) and then bolt the frame thru these essentially isolating the motor assembly from the frame  (making it 'float').   Can you give me some insight as to which one would be better (booties or grunge washers or some other product)?
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 5 Jun 2013, 03:29 am
Hi, Jeff. I would favor grungebuster material. This material (washers, Dots, sheet) has been used by many VPI customers in and around the plinth, sub-plinth, frame, etc., and for motor isolation with excellent results.

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Etnier on 17 Sep 2013, 06:14 pm
Due to environmental issues in my home I have to use a dustcover on my Rega RP3 turntable. Wondering if there's product which might be stuck to the center of the cover top to dampen things a bit?
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 17 Sep 2013, 07:32 pm
An Extra-Thick 5" x 8" grungebuster Sheet will damp the dustcover significantly.

http://herbiesaudiolab.net/gb.htm#gasket

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Etnier on 17 Sep 2013, 07:38 pm
Thanks, Steve. I was hoping for something that would be a little smaller, less visible? Is that possible?
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 17 Sep 2013, 10:40 pm
SuperSonic Stabilizer placed on top of the cover or Fat Dots w/adhesive are excellent possibilities. You might just place small grungebuster Dots at the corners, between where the cover touches the turntable, instead of (or in addition to) placing something on top of the cover.

http://herbiesaudiolab.net/gb.htm

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Etnier on 17 Sep 2013, 11:22 pm
Many thanks! I will check this out.
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: DZetye on 2 Jan 2014, 12:14 am
Are the Herbies Grungebuster dots in the 1/16" thickness stackable for increased isolation properties?  Thanks.

Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 2 Jan 2014, 01:15 am
Yes, DZetye. All thicknesses of grungebuster Dots are stackable to achieve different and unique thicknesses. Fat Dots and "Thin" Fat Dots can also be stacked together to get different thicknesses. Grungebuster Dots and dBNeutralizer Dots can be stacked together as well; they're very compatible with one another.

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: spreadspectrum on 1 Feb 2014, 04:37 pm
Can any of your products be used for speaker cable elevation and vibration control?

Whether one believes in elevating speaker cables off the carpet or not, there are clearly transmitted vibrations through them.  I was curious as to whether resting the cables on a number of small or medium soft fat dots would accomplish both.

Your HAL-O devices would seem to be a good choice for vibration control, although I am uncertain of using multiples as a cable elevator.  Furthermore, my cables use Furutech's angled locking bananas, which might render these a difficult fit.

Thoughts?

Ryan
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 1 Feb 2014, 05:42 pm
Hi, Ryan. Lifting cables and interconnects off the floor always has potential for sonic improvement. Also, it's most important to prevent close-proximity parallel runs of cabling to eliminate sonic anomalies caused by electromagnetic inductance.

We have lots of customers using grungebuster Dots or Soft Fat Dots for isolation between cable lifters and cable/interconnect. HAL-O JR or Mini Jr can also be used quite effectively. HAL-O JR or Mini Jr can also be used intermittently along the cable for vibration control, with or without cable lifters. Cable lifters can be quite sophisticated like utility pole insulators or simple like folded cardboard or tissue roll cardboard (a v-slot is all you need). Maple or other hardwood blocks are also popular and effective.

The compact titanium HAL-O JR works superbly with Furutech  locking bananas.

Steve Herbelin
Herbie's Audio Lab

Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: spreadspectrum on 1 Feb 2014, 06:41 pm
Awesome - thank you for the information.  I just ordered a bunch of tenderfeet for four of my components, and I'll figure out some combination of the HAL-O and dots for my next buy.

I have to tell you, I am VERY impressed by a set of giant titanium cone/spike decoupling gliders I recently bought from you.  One of the biggest improvements to my system in recent memory.

Good stuff.
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: jostber on 8 Mar 2014, 07:22 pm
I was looking at the Kalrez dots at the web site. What are the Kalrez solid dots most useful for? Can these be used to stabilize tube sockets?
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 8 Mar 2014, 08:50 pm
Kalrez Dots and washers are most useful as a decoupling interface subject to extreme heat. They are useful for stabilizing tube sockets, though regular grungebuster Dots are just as effective in this application.

Steve Herbelin
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Denverhifi on 30 Oct 2014, 05:16 pm
Hi Steve,
At RMAF this year, I purchased a George Warren turntable. As good as it sounds, I know from using your products on my speakers and amp, that I want to get something under my new table.
What do you recommend?  The tripod feet are broad, and don't have points.

Thanks,
Patrick
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 30 Oct 2014, 05:52 pm
I would suggest trying an Extra-Thick grungebuster Dot under each of the stock feet as well as under the external motor.

Steve Herbelin
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries for Well Tempered TT
Post by: RPM123 on 16 Jan 2015, 07:13 pm
Hi Steve,

As a new Well Tempered TT owner, I have found that it is much more subject to vertical movement because of the squash ball feet and the fact that my equipment rack sits on a suspended wood floor. (Note: mounting a TT platform on a side wall is NOT an option in my house.) This was never an issue when I was using a far heavier non-suspended TT. Would it be possible to manufacture a "grungebuster" or "MedicineBall" that would be a direct replacement for the WTT squash balls? Regulation squash balls are from 39.5 to 40.5 mm and the products mentioned above are either too small or too large to fit in the "cups" underneath the TT. I know that there are a number of WTT owners out there and I wonder if there would be sufficient interest among them to make it worth your effort?  I also know that you have other products such as isolation feet, however, I think that adding such feet would detract from the aesthetics of the WTT. Thanks.  Glenn
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 16 Jan 2015, 07:34 pm
Hi, Glenn. Tenderfoot isolation feet work superbly under Well Tempered Turntables and look very nice (nicer than the squash balls, imo). Here's a copy/paste about them from elsewhere on AudioCircle:

"Herbies Tall Soft Tenderfeet work as well if not better than the stock squash balls, without problems with the table maintaining level due to the unequal wear on the squash balls. I've also used Herbie's Turntable footers as well, but I actually think the Tenderfeet might be a touch better in my setup, which needs isolation from footfalls."--posted by watercourse on Jan 26, 2014.

I you wish to go a different aesthetic route, there's no need to develop a new product. Extra-Thick grungebuster Dots are featured on our website in 40mm diameter. X-Large Fat Dots and Giant Fat Dots are also available 40mm diameter (to order, just choose either one and mention in the "comments" section of the order form that you want 40mm diameter). Grungebuster Dots and Fat Dots can be stacked in any combination to achieve custom heights.

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: charleykahler on 5 Feb 2016, 01:56 am
I'm thinking of trying tenderfeet under my Emotiva XMC-1. Will 3 feet work or do I need 4? Thanks.
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 5 Feb 2016, 02:50 am
Three Tenderfoot isolation feet would suffice, though four is recommended. With four, you have better lateral stability, more versatility with placement of the footers, more vibration-absorbing and vibration-blocking "beef" to do the job, and most importantly you'll usually get an audibly superior result.

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: dart6 on 15 Apr 2016, 11:52 pm
Hi Steve my monos weigh 135lbs each sitting on a carpeted wooden floor. I may have access to 10 of the 1inch black balls with the clear iso cups. Would these be recommended and how would you configure it

Regards Brett
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 16 Apr 2016, 03:25 am
Hi, Brett. Though somewhat over the conservatively recommended weight range of clear Iso-Cups, they would certainly be worth an audition. I would use five Iso-Cups/balls under each amp but not directly on the carpet. Best to use something for a platform under each amp or a single slab to accommodate both amps, with the platform(s) sitting directly on the carpet. Baltic birch plywood is excellent for a platform; also worth considering would be a maple block or polished granite slab. Iso-Cups would sit directly on the platform with the bottom of the amp chassis sitting directly on the black balls. Some experimentation with placement and configuration is recommended; for example, you might place three along the edge of a heavier side where the transformers are. Being free-standing, Iso-Cups are very versatile regarding placement. Should you happen to end up using other footers sometime, such as Extra-Firm Tenderfoot isolation feet instead of Iso-Cups, you would still want to employ the platform(s) with the same basic configuration.

Best regards,

Steve
Herbies Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: ACHiPo on 24 Aug 2016, 03:41 am
Steve,
I'm looking for 3-4 adjustable vibration isolation feet for a turntable I'm building.  What would you recommend?
AC
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 24 Aug 2016, 03:07 pm
Using four Tenderfoot isolation feet works very well with turntable parameters-- if necessary for leveling, the feet can be re-positioned under the table a little this way or that to accomplish leveling. Or, though scarcely ever really needed, one or more Tenderfeet can be shimmed with Post-It Pad paper, thin cardboard or felt. Once level, they shouldn't need to be re-adjusted.

(http://herbiesaudiolab.net/tfoot.jpg) Tenderfoot isolation footer (http://herbiesaudiolab.net/compfeet.htm#tender)

Though designed more specifically for loudspeaker isolation, Herbie's fully-adjustable Threaded Stud Gliders also do very well with most turntables.

(http://herbiesaudiolab.net/studgldr.jpg) Threaded Stud Glider (http://herbiesaudiolab.net/spkrfeet.htm#stud)

Robert Herbelin
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: ACHiPo on 27 Aug 2016, 06:53 pm
Using four Tenderfoot isolation feet works very well with turntable parameters-- if necessary for leveling, the feet can be re-positioned under the table a little this way or that to accomplish leveling. Or, though scarcely ever really needed, one or more Tenderfeet can be shimmed with Post-It Pad paper, thin cardboard or felt. Once level, they shouldn't need to be re-adjusted.

(http://herbiesaudiolab.net/tfoot.jpg) Tenderfoot isolation footer (http://herbiesaudiolab.net/compfeet.htm#tender)

Though designed more specifically for loudspeaker isolation, Herbie's fully-adjustable Threaded Stud Gliders also do very well with most turntables.

(http://herbiesaudiolab.net/studgldr.jpg) Threaded Stud Glider (http://herbiesaudiolab.net/spkrfeet.htm#stud)

Robert Herbelin
Herbie's Audio Lab
Thanks Robert.  I missed the speaker feet on your website.  They look like they'll fill the bill.
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: sgr on 9 Nov 2016, 03:41 pm
Best tube dampers that prevent microphonics.
I'm looking for tube dampers that will be best for Kron Px4, We101d, EML 45, 5u4g? Also footers perhaps.
Thanks,
Steven
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 10 Nov 2016, 12:26 am
An UltraSonic Rx damping instrument on each tube should do very well and four Tenderfoot isolation feet underneath the amp.

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: ugene on 22 Dec 2016, 04:46 am
Hi, I am new and need an advice on speaker feet for sound isolation. I have a center speaker that weigh ~28lb which I'd like to isolate from the entertainment center. The speaker will be slightly angled up to the listener position so if I use flat isolation feet only a corner of each will really work. Is there a solution you'd recommend for my case?

Thank you very much in advance,
Eugene
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: sgr on 25 Jan 2017, 07:20 am
An UltraSonic Rx damping instrument on each tube should do very well and four Tenderfoot isolation feet underneath the amp.

Steve
Herbie's Audio Lab

What sizee would you recommend for KR PX4 and EML mesh plate 5u4g?
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 25 Jan 2017, 03:45 pm
What sizee would you recommend for KR PX4 and EML mesh plate 5u4g?

For the PX4, a size 50 UltraSonic Rx damping instrument is appropriate. For the EML 5U4G-Mesh, size 65.

Robert
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: witchdoctor on 29 Jan 2017, 01:12 am
Hey Herbie, I am currently using a vibration control system from mapleshade which works great but is a little expensive. Your products seems competitively priced. What do your recommend for a Marantz 7702 processor and a Sony UHPH1 BR player? I am using a Sanus rack.


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=153050)
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 30 Jan 2017, 02:25 am
Hey Herbie, I am currently using a vibration control system from mapleshade which works great but is a little expensive. Your products seems competitively priced. What do your recommend for a Marantz 7702 processor and a Sony UHPH1 BR player? I am using a Sanus rack.


I recommend four TenderSoft Tenderfoot isolation feet (http://herbiesaudiolab.net/compfeet.htm#tender) for each component, with the Tenderfoot isolation feet in direct contact with the components' chassis (not underneath the stock feet). A SuperSonic Stabilizer (http://herbiesaudiolab.net/stable.htm) or two atop each component in conjunction with the Tenderfeet would be additionally beneficial to damp both lower and upper chassis vibrations.

Robert Herbelin
Herbie's Audio Lab


Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: jtwrace on 30 Jan 2017, 02:33 am
Robert Herbelin
Herbie's Audio Lab
OK, now I'm confused.  I thought your name was Steve even though everyone likes to call you Herbie.  Now Robert?  Are you running from the law?!?!   :lol:
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: jamesg11 on 30 Jan 2017, 05:36 am
Hi Steve, Robert,

I'm soon adding a pair of Elac 4Pi Plus.2 'super tweeters' to my Elac 249BE floorstanders. They sit on top of the speakers & weigh 4kg each.

What is recommended as isolation for them? (I have the 'Ascendo C8 Special' isolation between the 249s & granite bases.)

Cheers,
Jim.
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: witchdoctor on 30 Jan 2017, 01:28 pm
I recommend four TenderSoft Tenderfoot isolation feet (http://herbiesaudiolab.net/compfeet.htm#tender) for each component, with the Tenderfoot isolation feet in direct contact with the components' chassis (not underneath the stock feet). A SuperSonic Stabilizer (http://herbiesaudiolab.net/stable.htm) or two atop each component in conjunction with the Tenderfeet would be additionally beneficial to damp both lower and upper chassis vibrations.

Robert Herbelin
Herbie's Audio Lab

Perfect, thanks!
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: Herbie on 31 Jan 2017, 04:55 pm
OK, now I'm confused.  I thought your name was Steve even though everyone likes to call you Herbie.  Now Robert?  Are you running from the law?!?!   :lol:

Steve, my father, retired earlier this year.

Hi Steve, Robert,

I'm soon adding a pair of Elac 4Pi Plus.2 'super tweeters' to my Elac 249BE floorstanders. They sit on top of the speakers & weigh 4kg each.

What is recommended as isolation for them? (I have the 'Ascendo C8 Special' isolation between the 249s & granite bases.)

Cheers,
Jim.

Hi, Jim. Fat Dots make an excellent isolation and decoupling interface for tweeters. For the Elac 4Pi Plus.2, I recommend using four Square Fat Dots.

Robert Herbelin
Herbie's Audio Lab
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: jeanhank on 5 Apr 2017, 08:32 pm
Hi Herbie,

I have a Dual 1229. I have determined that I need about 5mm between the platter and stylus to obtain the correct VTA. I have read that some people put a thinner Way Excellent mat on top of the stock rubber one instead of using the full-thickness Way Excellent. Can you comment on the relative advantages/disadvantages of doing it this way? Thanks!
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: jeanhank on 16 May 2017, 09:53 pm
Just wanted to follow up on my own question for progeny.

After some more measuring, I went ahead and purchased the 4.5mm mat for my Dual 1229 and use it without the original rubber mat. It runs a AT15SS cartridge, with the original beryllium cantilever super shibata stylus assembly, into a McIntosh MA6200. I am a mechanical engineer, and my equipment was restored by me, well set up and with all functions performing to the original specification. After using the mat exclusively for about a month, I went back and A/B tested with the original rubber mat, with Bobby Hutcherson's 1971 album "Head On".

The difference was immediate. Herbie's mat does a great job dampening the resonance of the platter, resulting in a much cleaner presentation of the vibraphone. With the stock mat, some of the notes would bloom. Herbie's mat eliminated this distortion. The well-recorded double bass also benefited from this effect.

Noise floor is lowered as well, and the well-recorded percussion is the greatest benefactor. Recorded ambience is more noticeable. Each note gained tactility and the soundstage is more focused and wider. Rumble is now well below the baked-in rumble in the recordings. I feel like I'm getting close to belt-drive clarity while retaining the idler slam. This is confirmed by my hi-fi test record.

All in all, I am happy with my purchase. I was skeptical but the improvements are clear, and I'm getting more out of a great cartridge while satisfactorily addressing some of the weaknesses of my turntable.
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: sean619 on 21 Jan 2018, 12:17 am
I have Omega 3XRS speakers that are tilted up on my carpet with a single front center spike. The rear of my speaker rests on the carpet. The challenge is that this creates tip over instability. Do you have a product that I can attach to the rear corners of my speakers to increase stability on my carpet? Thank you
Title: Re: Product Inquiries
Post by: logos47 on 7 Nov 2018, 07:54 pm
Can you tell me what might be the effect of a Mini-Halo on my SME3009 S2 (unimproved) tonearm versus the pillar-mounted oil-filled trough and paddle suspended from the tonearm itself?  It is a TD124 II.  Both are damping methods, but perhaps the very costly trough and paddle dampens the whole arm while the
 Halo might quiet vibrations from the stylus?   Thank you!  Bob