Most of the isolation platforms available on the market today
are designed and sized for supporting turntables and other larger pieces of
hi-fi or AV equipment. However, the Miniplat A4 isolation platform from
Isokinetic is a competitively priced support that is more suitable for those
smaller components in a hi-fi set up such as phonon stages, half-size CD
players, transformers and turntable power supplies, for example. The A4 platform
is constructed from polished acrylic and has four sorb octane feet for
isolation and dampening the platform from external influences.
Isokinetik
As the model name suggests, the platform is A4 size (297mm x
210mm) and is 10mm thick. The four feet can be repositioned to suit the payload
and offer effective vibration isolation for components placed on the Miniplat
from external vibrations as well as from other components in the system.
The model reviewed here is made from clear acrylic, but the
platform is also available in black acrylic if preferred. I test the Miniplat
with several items, including a phonon amplifier. My phonon amplifier is
valve-based and, as such, is quite prone to micro phonic noise effects arising
from vibrations transmitted to the valves in the amplifier. The reduction in
this noise is not insignificant when the Miniplat is fitted underneath the
phonon amp.
Isokinetik
Making a difference
In addition to the reduction in micro phony, I experience
subtle improvements with the sound, especially in the midrange, that seems to
blossom and become effortless. Bass response is tighter and better controlled.
Similar effects are experienced with other items I try, but to a lesser extent.
Overall, the sound feels more natural and musical, and I even discover a subtle
improvement when I use the Miniplat underneath the power supply of my phonon
stage and main preamps. Everything sounds somehow cleaner than before, as
though the music has been lifted clear from the noise floor.
Isokinetik
This is a useful platform that looks good and yields
noticeable sonic improvements. The price is well pitched and it’s ideally sized
for isolating several smaller audio components at once.
Details
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Price: $48.26
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Website: www.isokinetik.com
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Our verdict: 5/5
