comment about Critical Mass Isolation Systems
Recently, an audiophile purchased Black Label Reference systems with racks customized to his specifications. Randy gave permission to use his thoughts on this page which seemed very appropriate as he speaks to the entire process and the result. Randy's thoughts support ours in that world-class isolation systems must remain invisible in the sonic fabric and make things sound better as more systems are added; they must be neutral and effective. Here are Randy's comments:
..........."I now have the full CMS set-up installed in my home and have included a picture of my set-up. As you can see in the picture, the racks and platforms were a perfect match for my components. The customization and level of personal attention to my specific needs were simply the best I have dealt with in my years of audio. I am still amazed at the additional labor and customization that went into my project - especially the new machined brass spikes that you fabricated new for my racks and the custom matching maple top cap shelves - you really do mean custom work!
I also want to let you know that the racks and platforms arrived safely and were the safest and best packaging I have ever seen for equipment; I am not talking about outer cases, etc., just the extreme care in the way every piece was wrapped and packaged - I think the shipment could have survived a hurricane intact.
And onto the sound...the difference from moving my equipment off of the acrylic and glass stand and platforms onto the CMS racks and platforms was amazing. There was no leap of faith involved to hear the difference - it was immediate and profound. The first quality I heard was improved bass, it was like my system just gained another 1/2 octave. The other immediate quality was the sheer ease of the presentation - details became much more clear and focused, not thrust at you but just "there" in the fabric of the overall musical message. I quickly noticed how easy it is now to turn up the volume - any trace of glare and hardness simply disappeared. I listen to all contemporary jazz and rock and have found that every cd I have put on is very listenable, regardless of the quality of the recording or mastering. My entire cd collection is now open for listening! The components sitting on the platforms seem to allow the soul of the music to shine through, providing listening enjoyment due to the absence of vibration that has been converted into heat. As a side note, my equipment seem to operate much cooler now, never even getting warm to the touch as they did in my old rack; I am not sure if the filters are doing something here or it is just the improved ventilation or both.
I have never been happier with my system than now with the current set-up and equipment; the CMS stands and platforms were the final missing link to happiness. I think that I may have finally jumped off the upgrade merry-go-round.
I want to thank you for always taking my phone calls and promptly responding to my emails throughout the entire process from my initial interest to post-sale. I did a lot of research on CMS before making a final decision on which new rack system to purchase. I was impressed with the high praise leveled at you by reviewers and show attendees and your utmost friendliness and professionalism in all of my communication with you personally. The high level of accommodation, commitment and professionalism also extends to your dealer, Doug White at Matrx Systems in Philadelphia, he was a true pleasure to deal with on the business/transaction side of the order.
Thank-you again and best of luck with your new line of PXK and QXK racks and platforms!"
Randy
