Ever felt overwhelmed by a messy studio? We’ve all been there, trust me. That’s where getting the best recording studio racks comes into play. It’s not just about making the place look good; it’s about setting up a smooth and efficient work area.
Studio racks are a game changer for any recording setup or live gig. They help keep your workflow smooth, your precious gear safe, they make use of your space wisely, and they give your setup that slick, pro look. In this article, we’re going to check out the various studio equipment racks out there. We’re going to talk about what you should keep an eye out for when picking the perfect one, and share our favorites for the top audio racks this year.
Whether you’re a studio pro thinking about an upgrade or a musician setting up your home studio, this guide’s got something for you. And if you’re just starting to get your head around organizing your studio, don’t worry, we’ve got some tips that’ll help you out. Our aim is to help you know your stuff so you can boost your studio to the next level.
So, if you’re ready to discover the ultimate studio rack solutions, let’s dive in!
Best Recording Studio Racks
We’ve compiled a list of the top recording studio racks for you. Check them out below!
On-Stage WS7500 Series Rack Cabinet
We highly recommend the On-Stage WS7500 for its functionality, stability, and adaptability.
Pros
- Spacious 12-space rack
- Sturdy steel and wood construction
- Versatile and easily expandable
Cons
- Wheels may not be the sturdiest
- Mild concern about potential wobbling
- Longer screws needed for thicker faceplates
The On-Stage WS7500 is truly a fantastic solution for organizing and protecting your rackmount components. Its 12-space capacity offers ample room for effects, amps, and more, making your gear easily accessible.
Not only is it secure, but the steel and laminated wood construction also ensures outstanding strength and support for up to 200 pounds of equipment. This rack is built to last and withstand the demands of any stage or studio setting.
One of the best features is its adaptability. Whether you’re using it on its own or as an extension for an On-Stage workstation, the WS7500 easily scales with your growing studio. With removable casters, you can opt for mobility or stability with nonslip rubber feet, depending on your needs.
Though there are a few minor concerns, such as wheel sturdiness and potential wobbliness, we believe the On-Stage WS7500 is a solid investment for any aspiring musician or producer. Add it to your setup, and experience the difference in organization and efficiency.
Middle Atlantic BRK20 Rack
You should consider this sturdy, 20U rack for your home studio needs.
Pros
- Durable alloy steel
- Fair price
- Stand-alone, open frame
Cons
- 18″ depth may limit equipment compatibility
- Single tiered shelf
- Art deco style not for everyone
When organizing your home studio, the Middle Atlantic BRK20 rack is a great choice. We appreciate the durable alloy steel construction that ensures longevity. With its fair price, this 20U rack becomes an attractive option for those on a budget.
One noteworthy aspect is the stand-alone open frame design. It’s perfect for easy access to your gear. However, the 18″ depth might limit the equipment you can store. So, double-check your gear dimensions before purchasing.
The single tiered shelf adds convenience and organization to your setup. But with only one shelf option, you may need to consider additional solutions for multiple devices. The art deco style might not appeal to everyone, but that’s a subjective aspect, and it shouldn’t heavily influence your decision.
In conclusion, the Middle Atlantic BRK20 rack is a solid choice for aspiring artists and producers looking to organize their home recording studios. With durability, fair pricing, and easy access to your gear, this rack is worth checking out. Just be mindful of the depth limitation and the single shelf feature.
Gator Frameworks Elite Series 10U Studio Rack Desk
This solid studio rack desk is worth the investment for organizing your recording gear.
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Slide-out tray for extra storage
- Rear cable passthrough for cable management
Cons
- Some assembly issues reported
- Drawer can be tight
- Lacks rear mounting posts for shelves
We found the Gator Frameworks Elite Series 10U Studio Rack Desk to be an excellent addition to any home or professional recording studio space. It boasts a dark walnut finish, blending seamlessly with your room décor.
One thing we appreciate is the ample space it provides for pro audio gear, like preamps and effects processors. The 10U rack spacing offers plenty of room, and the 24″ x 21.1″ platform surface can accommodate a small mixer or other desktop accessories.
The slide-out tray above the rack space is a game-changer. It’s perfect for storing your small sampler or extra gear, with a max weight capacity of 35 lbs. Additionally, the rear cable passthrough cutout ensures clean and clutter-free cable management.
However, some users reported issues with assembly and missing parts. Also, the drawer can be tight, and there are no rear posts for mounting shelves. But overall, we recommend the Gator Frameworks Elite Series 10U Studio Rack Desk for its sturdy build and practical design.
AxcessAbles 16U AV Rack Case
We’ve found this 16U AV rack case to be a reliable choice for organizing and protecting your audio-visual gear.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable
- Versatile design
- Compatible with 19-inch accessories
Cons
- Side panels not weight-bearing
- Slightly rickety when full
- No assembly instructions
As musicians and producers, we know the importance of a solid, well-built rack for our equipment. The AxcessAbles 16U AV rack case delivers with its metal construction and locking 3-inch caster wheels. The wheels are removable, providing additional stability and weight capacity.
The versatile design allows you to cater to your preferences, such as leaving off the side panels for added airflow if you wish. However, the side panels are not weight-bearing, so don’t rely on them to support heavy equipment.
One drawback we noticed is that the rack can become a little wobbly when fully loaded. It hasn’t caused us any trouble, but it’s something to keep in mind.
The only other issue we encountered was the lack of assembly instructions when putting this rack together. Fortunately, it wasn’t too challenging to figure out, and we managed just fine.
Overall, the AxcessAbles 16U AV Rack Case offers an affordable and decent solution for organizing your equipment. While it has some minor drawbacks, we believe it’s a good option for keeping your audio-visual gear both accessible and protected.
StarTech.com 12U AV Rack Cabinet
We recommend this stylish, wood-finished rack for discreet storage of your equipment.
Pros
- Stylish wood finish
- Durable casters
- Adjustable mounting depth
Cons
- Not real wood
- Particle board material
- Assembling difficulties
This server cabinet is perfect for musicians and producers looking to store their equipment discreetly in their office or studio. With its wood-finished design, it seamlessly blends in with your existing furniture.
The 12U cabinet offers a shaded glass front window that allows you to monitor your equipment while keeping it secure. Additionally, the durable casters make positioning your equipment hassle-free. You’ll appreciate its cooling features, such as the ventilation panel for maximizing airflow.
However, it’s essential to note that this cabinet is not made of real wood, but a particle board material. Some users encountered difficulties during assembly, and it can be a bit pricey considering its build. Despite these drawbacks, the StarTech.com 12U AV Rack Cabinet still offers convenience and style for your studio needs.
Samson SRK-12 Universal Rack Stand
We recommend the Samson SRK-12 for its durability, ease of assembly, and great value.
Pros
- Sturdy heavy-duty steel construction
- Easy to assemble with clear instructions
- 3-inch locking casters for easy mobility
Cons
- No included assembly instructions
- Rear rails may require adjustment
- Care needed when tightening screws
The Samson SRK-12 rack makes organizing your gear easy and convenient. This durable 12-space universal equipment rack is constructed with heavy-duty steel and offers great value for your money. With fully enclosed sides and both front and rear rack rails, it accommodates a variety of rack-mounted gear setups.
Adding to its practicality, the side panels come with perforations for passive ventilation, keeping your gear cool while in use. What’s more, this rack supports both U.S. and European rack screws, making it versatile and adaptable to your needs.
Being on four 3-inch casters, the Samson SRK-12 is a breeze to move around. Locking fronts assure stability when needed. With a weight capacity of up to 300lb (or 450lb without casters), this rack can handle your equipment with ease.
In summary, the Samson SRK-12 Universal Equipment Rack Stand is a reliable and practical choice for anyone looking to invest in a durable and versatile gear storage solution.
GearIT 12U Audio Rack with Flat Top
We highly recommend the GearIT 12U Audio Rack for its versatility, durability, and style.
Pros
- Space-saving compact design
- Sturdy steel construction
- Oak finished desktop for extra workspace
Cons
- Limited to 12U capacity
- Additional hardware may be needed
- No rear rack support
We recently tested the GearIT 12U Audio Rack, and we were impressed by its design. The compact workstation combines a 12U equipment rack and a spacious desktop, perfect for both home and professional studios. It’s an excellent solution for storing your audio gear, servers, and mixers without taking up too much space.
The rack’s construction is top-notch. Made of black-finished steel, it’s strong enough to hold your valuable equipment securely. The heavy-duty joints ensure longevity, while the EVA anti-vibration pads protect sensitive gear like opto compressors and tube electronics. We appreciated knowing our equipment was safe and sound in this rack.
One downside to the GearIT 12U Audio Rack is its 12U capacity limit. While perfect for a smaller setup, if you have a lot of gear, you may need something larger. Additionally, some users have mentioned the need to purchase extra cage nuts for 1U devices, as the included hardware only supports 6 2U devices.
Despite these minor drawbacks, we found the GearIT 12U Audio Rack to be a fantastic addition to our studio. With its solid construction, space-saving design, and stylish oak desktop, it’s a valuable investment for any aspiring musician or producer.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Recording Studio Rack
Size (Number of Rack Units – U)
When searching for the perfect rack, we need to think about the size. Racks use a unit called U. It’s important to know how many U spaces our gear needs. Since we might add more equipment in the future, it’s smart to choose a rack with some extra space.
Weight Capacity
Another factor to consider is the weight capacity. Our gear can be heavy, so the rack must support it. Ensure the rack’s weight limit meets our current and potential future needs. A solid, sturdy rack is definitely a wise investment.
Material
The material of the rack should also be on our list. Common materials are steel, aluminum, and wood. Each has its pros and cons.
- Steel: Durable, offers stability, but can be heavy.
- Aluminum: Lightweight, strong, and rust-resistant.
- Wood: Aesthetic appeal, easily customized, but may lack durability.
Choosing the right material depends on our specific needs and preferences.
Portability
Lastly, consider portability. If we plan to move our gear often, a portable rack is crucial. Look for features like wheels, handles, and lightweight materials. A rack that is easy to transport will make our lives easier in the long run.
How to Assemble Your First Studio Rack
Let’s start building your first studio rack. First, gather all the necessary components. You’ll need:
- A rack unit (or “rack”)
- Rack-mountable gear (such as preamps, compressors, or EQs)
- Rack screws
- Patch cables (or “cords”)
Now, find a clean, spacious area to assemble everything. Place the rack on a stable surface to avoid any damage.
Step 1: Mounting your gear
Start at the bottom of the rack. This way, you’ll distribute the weight evenly and prevent tipping. Grab your first piece of gear, align it with the screw holes, and insert the rack screws. Tighten the screws without overdoing it; you want your gear securely in place, but not damaged.
Keep moving upwards, adding more gear. Remember to leave space for proper airflow to prevent overheating.
Step 2: Connecting your gear
Once all your equipment is mounted, it’s time to connect everything. Use patch cables to link each device with its corresponding inputs and outputs.
For example, if you have a preamp, connect its output to the input of your compressor. It’s essential to follow the signal flow of your specific setup to avoid unwanted noise or feedback.
Keep cable management in mind as you connect your devices. Use cable ties to bundle and organize cords so your studio stays clean and clutter-free.
Step 3: Power up and test
Finally, plug your rack’s power strip into a wall outlet or surge protector. Power up your gear and test each device to make sure everything is working correctly. Congratulations! Your first studio rack is now successfully assembled and ready to be used in your music production journey.
Final Thoughts
Picking the right studio equipment rack is super important for keeping things tidy and making sure you can work smoothly. We’ve gone through our favorite picks and talked about options that fit all sorts of budgets and needs. Choosing wisely can really step up your music production game.
Got any stories or questions about recording studio racks? Drop us a comment. And if you want to keep up with what we’re talking about, subscribe to our blog and follow us on social media. We love hearing from you guys and really value your input.
We hope our tips have been useful as you look for the perfect setup. Here’s to making awesome music!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of studio racks available?
We notice three main types of studio racks: desk racks, floor racks, and portable racks. Each type serves different purposes and preferences.
Are portable studio racks sturdy enough for heavy equipment?
Yes, portable studio racks cater to handling heavy equipment. Just ensure you choose one with a solid build and appropriate weight capacity.
How important is ventilation in a studio rack?
Ventilation is crucial in maintaining your gear’s performance and longevity. Overheating can lead to malfunction or damage, so keep air circulation in mind.
Can I stack studio racks on top of each other for more space?
Stacking studio racks is possible, but proceed with caution. Check manufacturer recommendations and use appropriate support to maintain stability and safety.