Grand Prix Audio’s recent Monza modular racks are a distinct step in that direction: more cost-effective and versatile than their more expensive alternatives, they also sound better, setting an enviable performance standard at a more approachable price level. The use of Apex footers in place of spikes is a major mechanical and practical win, while bamboo support surfaces leverage nature’s elegant engineering to significant sonic and financial benefit. However, by still incorporating flexible mounting of the support surfaces, combined with modular construction, they don’t overcome the levelling challenge, while they share the same aesthetic as the other GPA racks.
All of which brings us – finally – to the Andante Largo racks. Indeed, this entire discussion started life as (and remains) the precursor to the review of this Japanese support system, racks that might look different but are even more different when it comes to construction. Hopefully, this article provides some context for the design decisions taken by Ryo Suzuki of Andante Largo, as well as going some way towards explaining their potential benefits. Assumptions and received wisdom are so embedded when it comes to audio racks that any wider discussion of the thinking and the compromises involved is way too convoluted and involved to include in the body of any individual product review. So, this piece sets out the landscape, at least as far as the ‘mainstream’ approach to system support goes – the current status quo. The review of the Andante Largo Grand Tower racks comes next…
