Gear article

Gear4music 19" 28U Studio Rack Stand

The Gear4music 19" 28U Studio Rack Stand is a heavy-duty storage solution designed for mounting standard audio hardware in professional and home studio environments. Constructed from steel, it features an angled frame to facilitate easier access to controls and provides a total of 28 units (28U) of vertical rack space.

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Overview

The Gear4music 19" 28U Studio Rack Stand is a utilitarian piece of studio furniture designed to house rack-mountable equipment. It serves as a central hub for various audio tools, including preamps, audio interfaces, effects processors, and power conditioners. By consolidating these units into a single vertical stack, the stand helps maintain an organised workspace and reduces cable clutter.

The stand is built with a focus on durability and accessibility. Its steel construction is intended to support the cumulative weight of multiple rack units, while the open-frame design ensures that heat dissipation is managed effectively, preventing equipment from overheating during long sessions.

Key Features and Design

The stand's primary feature is its 28U capacity, which offers significant storage volume compared to smaller desktop units. The dimensions are built to the 19-inch industry standard, ensuring compatibility with the vast majority of professional rack hardware.

A notable design element is the angled front profile. Unlike perfectly vertical racks, this slope allows the user to see and adjust knobs and switches from a seated or standing position more comfortably. This ergonomic consideration is particularly useful for hardware that requires frequent tactile interaction, such as compressors or EQ units.

Mounting and Construction

Built from robust steel, the stand is designed for reliability in permanent studio installations. It is capable of holding heavier power-based equipment alongside lighter signal processors.

It is important to note that the unit is supplied as the frame only. While it includes the necessary rails for mounting, it does not ship with the screws or nuts required to secure individual pieces of gear. Users must purchase a separate rack-mounting kit, typically consisting of M6 nuts and bolts, to install their equipment.

Target Audience

This rack stand is aimed at several types of users: * Home Studio Owners: Those transitioning from a desk-based setup to a more organised rack-based workflow. * Project Studios: Professional spaces that require high-density storage for a growing collection of outboard gear. * IT and Live Sound: While designed for audio, the sturdy steel frame can also accommodate server-related hardware or power management systems in a fixed environment.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other studio solutions, the Gear4music 28U stand offers a high unit-to-cost ratio. While premium brands like K&M offer high-end accessories such as the K&M 214/6 speaker stand or the 19797 tablet stand, Gear4music focuses on providing affordable, large-scale storage.

Unlike smaller 8U or 12U desktop racks, this 28U model is a floor-standing unit intended for users with a significant amount of hardware. It lacks the portability of specialized mobile cases but offers more stability and accessibility than a closed-back cabinet rack.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the total rack capacity of this stand?
The stand provides a total of 28U (units) of rack space for mounting equipment.
What width of equipment does it support?
It is designed to house standard 19-inch rack-mounted equipment, which is the industry standard for audio and IT hardware.
Are mounting bolts and nuts included in the box?
No, the unit does not include mounting hardware. A separate pack of rack mount nuts and bolts must be purchased to install your gear.
What material is the rack stand made from?
The stand is constructed from sturdy steel to provide reliable support for heavy studio equipment.
Why is the stand designed with an angle?
The angled design is intended to make adjusting settings on your gear easier by improving visibility and reach from a seated or standing position.
What types of equipment can be mounted in this rack?
It is suitable for audio interfaces, preamps, effects processors, power conditioners, and any other 19-inch rack-ready gear.
Is this stand suitable for heavy equipment like power amplifiers?
Yes, the sturdy steel construction is designed to provide reliable support for heavier rack-mounted equipment.
Can I use this rack for server equipment?
As long as the server equipment fits the standard 19-inch width and the depth requirements of an open-frame stand, it can be used for IT hardware.
Does the stand have wheels for mobility?
Based on the manufacturer description, this is a stationary floor stand and does not include casters or wheels.
Is the back of the rack open or closed?
It features an open-frame design, which allows for easy cable management and better airflow for cooling equipment.
How much does the Gear4music 19" 28U Studio Rack Stand typically cost?
The typical price range for this specific model is approximately £70.00.
Does Gear4music sell the mounting hardware separately?
Yes, Gear4music offers a pack of 12 rack mount nuts and bolts specifically for use with their rack stands.