Vibration Control Fundamentals

No one in audio knows vibration control as well as companies like Newport Corporation, where optics, motion control, and lasers matter greatly.

One of Newport's webpages summarizes the science. Vibration tables work, but have a very, very low home approval factor. ;)

On a different note, while long defunct, Screening Systems, Inc. in the 1980s revolutionized the use of random vibration to improve electronics. The Tomahawk cruise missile is reliable today because the first one fell apart under vibration. It was quickly shown that crystals and jumper wires fail in electronics first. The lessons apply to audio today.

Generally, audiophiles should acquire the finest reliable audio equipment their budgets allow, then improve vibration control, cabling, etc. when financially appropriate. Add low-cost Les Davis Audio pads and blocks when convenient. If you need tables or racks for equipment, examine attractive rigid racks from Butcher Block Acoustics. Don't put the cart in front of the horse.

Lastly, home audio isn't as well-controlled as laboratories. Vibration control is part of a system. It's common for products like blocks to work well in one home, but not in another where different racks, different floors, and different equipment is used. Everything matters.