We have been fans of the XF loudspeaker stands for many years. They are made to order to fit to the four corners of the intended loudspeakers, and we have used them with great success with speakers from ATC, Harbeth, Epos, Castle . . pretty well everyone (excepting the Neat MFS, in fact).

Performance is improved further with Pulsar points in lieu of the 6 mm spikes.

The XR stand uses a similar structure to the XF stand but takes the unusual step of suspending shelves made from a sandwich of end grain balsa wood and MDF via tensioned string.

The result is not only surprisingly attractive but also remarkably effective. The lack of sonic signature, increased dynamic freedom and improved clarity at all frequencies but particularly in the bass is quite hard to take in. The transformation from our already excellent frameworks stand was dramatic.

This is one “lossy” structure that works! Furthermore, it works well in conjunction with the Pulsar Points, both in lieu of floor spikes and between the shelves and audio components.

A close-up shot of the tensioned rope suspension is shown below.

As with the speaker stands, we really like 'em on Pulsar points instead of spikes. The Something Solid 'Missing Link" (below right) is an alternative.

A budget version of the XR rack. Lighter gauge framework but similar suspension. Veneered MDF shelves instead of the balsa sandwiches above. This one has the advantage of shelf placement in 1" steps.

At £300 for a four level rack, it is peerless and it can be selectively upgraded by adding the balsa wood "dissipating" shelves at a later date. It can even be supplied with 25 mm MDF shelves - at a slightly higher cost - to fit in line with them, should you wish to put a key component on the higher grade shelf.

Useful links:

See Mark Orr's views in "a supporting role"

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If you need to combine audiophile audio qualities with TV support . . . here is the answer.

Price TBA, specifications are flexible. Pictured here in light oak.

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Arcam, ATC, Audio Technica, Creek, Chord Company, Eichmann, Dynavector, Epos, Focal / JM Labs, Grado headphones, Harbeth,

Isoblue (and special branch), Kudos Audio, Lyngdorf, Lyra, Michell Engineering, Naim Audio, Neat Acoustics, Nordost, Origin Live, Ortofon, Nottingham Analogue, Partington, Primare, Rega, Roksan, Sim2, Graham Slee, Shahinian, Something Solid, Stands Unique, Stax Earspeakers, Sumiko, Trichord, Wireworld, Wyrewizard