Tube Subchassis
While waiting for the first batch of NiWatt chassis from our fabricators, we received our vibration solution from the anodizing shop.
We're turntable guys after all, and vibration and mechanical considerations are never far from our focus.
Shown here is a mock-up (click to enlarge).
Vibes ...
We debated implementing a 4 chassis design (external power supply for each monoblock) to address noise and vibration issues, but prototyping showed us there was no free lunch.
Whenever we shortened wire paths, there was an improvement and an external supply conflicted with this.
The solution lied in a carefully planned layout, quality power transformers from Monolith Magnetics, and the vibration solution you see here.
This was not a cost-saving exercise, as the isolation sub-chassis is 30% of the cost of the case work.
The First Batch - Before Finishing
The sub-chassis is suspended from the main chassis with custom, high-temperature isolation bushings.
Your custom isolation shelf and amplifier stand is most certainly welcome, but know that amplifiers generate their own noise and sonic returns can be had by mitigating this.
We solved the problem without having to resort to outboard power supplies.
Bonus! The lone coupling cap in the amplifier is also mounted to the sub-chassis.
More Mechanicals ...
Octal & 4-Pin Tube Sockets
The NiWatts deserve the best tube sockets we could source.
These ceramic sockets for the signal tubes were selected for best mechanical contact.
Note the 6-finger collet construction: cup-shaped to match the radius of the tube pins (click to enlarge).
