Boston Audio TuneBlocks
are our award-winning line of equipment supports. Made from the same
grade of carbon as the acclaimed Mat 1 and finished with the same
proprietary sealing process, TuneBlocks offer a level of performance
leagues beyond their price. Completely expanded and refined in 2006
with the launch of the Series 2, TuneBlocks now offer more performance
and application options than ever.
TuneBlocks utilize the uniquely
low acoustic impedance of carbon graphite to efficiently drain mechanical
energy from audio components, while simultaneously isolating the
component from the shelf or table supporting it. You'll notice reduced
transient smearing and increased resolution through the reduction
of the components' noise floor. TuneBlocks also improve localization
of instruments and create a wider and deeper sound stage. Use TuneBlocks
with CD/DVD/SACD players, DACs, preamps, amps, turntables and even
speakers ("S" model) to reveal detail and clarity you haven’t
heard before. Unlike some other footer products, TuneBlocks offer
gains anyone can hear without leaving a sonic signature of its own.
"...the
tonal richness of the music eclipsed the previous standard set
by the combination of Stillpoints on a Symposium Acoustics Svelte
Shelf."
Rick
Becker
EnjoytheMusic.com
Each block is machined from a billet of
high purity carbon graphite (not molded carbon fiber) and contain
between one and seven cubic inches of carbon, depending on the model.
Once shaped, the blocks are finished using our proprietary sealant
applied with an automotive-quality spray finishing system. The stationary
bearing is used as a coupler between the component and the carbon
block. This concentrates the weight of the component into a small
area, allowing vibrations to be more efficiently drained into the
carbon block. Equipment does not wobble on the bearing like other
designs.
"They were audibly superior to the previous feet,
adding a general clarity and better soundstaging that made the
Sony player [$299] - when playing an identical multichannel SACD
to one in the $2200 more expensive Integra player - sound nearly
identical."
John
Sunier
Audiophile Audition
With the exception of the SE model, which
comes with special bearings, and the S model, which includes stainless
steel inserts for spiked components, all TuneBlocks come standard
with a set of chromium steel bearings. The steel bearings may be
upgraded with precision tungsten carbide bearings for enhanced performance.
Tungsten carbide is harder and denser than steel and is more efficient
at channeling vibration from the component into the graphite. Customers
ordering the upgraded bearings will receive both the standard and
upgraded bearings.
There are five models in the TuneBlocks range:
 TuneBlock SE
This set
includes tungsten carbide bearings, our flagship "Special
Edition" (SE)
TuneBlock represents the culmination of over two years of research
and development. Building on the award-winning TuneBlock XT, the
SE takes the XT's best-in-class performance to the next level.
The
SE incorporates the following refinements:
- Mass – Each TuneBlock
SE has more than twice the mass of our standard TuneBlocks, a critical
factor in getting the best performance possible.
- Improved Bearing – Our
new SE tungsten carbide bearing has 50% more mass than our standard
tungsten carbide bearing. In addition, SE bearings have been cryogenically
treated for increased hardness and molecular conformity. We are
the only manufacturer to cryogenically treat bearings.
- Recessed Base – A
2mm recess is machined into the base of each SE block, further
isolating the block from your shelf or table. This feature minimizes
a potential source of performance loss.
By incorporating proven high performance
materials and an ingeniously simple design, the TuneBlock SE represents
the pinnacle of footer performance regardless of cost. For customers
who need the absolute best, the TuneBlock SE is it. Each TuneBlock
SE measures 2.5" in diameter and is 1.5" tall. Exclusive
high performance tungsten carbide bearings are included.
TuneBlock
Standard XT
 The Series 2 XT incorporates
design features borrowed from our new TuneBlock SE - notably a 2mm
recess machined into the base of the block. This design feature reduces
contact with the shelf, minimizing a major potential source of performance
loss.
Coupled with the tungsten carbide bearing upgrade, TuneBlocks
XT Series 2 represent true "cost no object" performance
that can go head-to-head with any competing product, regardless of
price. We feel that these blocks represent the best value in component
isolation - period. Each TuneBlock XT measures 2" in diameter
and is 1.5" tall.
TuneBlock Standard
 The newly designed TuneBlock
Standard Series 2 represents a further refinement of the original
TuneBlock Standard (now offered as the TuneBlock Classic). Turned
on a precision CNC lathe, Series 2 TuneBlocks are sleeker and offer
better finish quality than before - while retaining the same award-winning
performance. These blocks are recommended over the taller XT TuneBlocks
when lower height is required - for example, when working in confined
shelf spaces.
Coupled with the tungsten carbide bearing upgrade,
these footers are the benchmark to which any competing design may
be compared. Each TuneBlock Standard measures
2" in diameter and is 1" tall.
TuneBlock Mini
 Our new entry-level
TuneBlock Mini not only sets a new standard in affordable component
isolation, it may just be the cutest footer out there. But don't
let the small size fool you - this is a serious upgrade that gets
you closer than you would expect to "cost no object" designs,
and offers a winning alternative to the ubiquitous sorbothane and
carbon fiber pucks found at this price point.
The
Mini is perfect for customers just exploring the benefits of component
isolation. These blocks may be upgraded to tungsten carbide bearings
at any time for even better performance. Each TuneBlock Mini measures
1.25" in diameter and is 0.75" tall.
TuneBlocks for
Speakers and Other Spiked Components - NEW
 TuneBlock S Since the launch
of the TuneBlocks line in January 2005, customers have asked about
using TuneBlocks with speakers. We're excited to announce a brand
new concept in speaker isolation with our TuneBlock S. The "S" stands
for "spikes" because the TuneBlock S includes a tough stainless
steel insert capable of taking almost any type of speaker spike.
Load tested up to 250 pounds per footer, the TuneBlock S can support
just about anything out there.
Based around our Series 2 Standard
TuneBlock, the TuneBlock S raises your speaker by only an inch -
almost perfectly preserving your current speaker setup. And since
these footers simply accommodate your existing speaker spikes, installation
is quick and easy. Use these TuneBlocks on any spiked component,
including heavy amplifiers. Each TuneBlock S is 2" in diameter,
1" tall, and includes a 0.75" stainless steel insert with
a 0.5" countersunk dimple. Sold in sets of 4.
Common Questions
Since TuneBlocks have bearings, will my component wobble?
No. Rather than diffusing energy through the motion of a moving
ball, with TuneBlocks energy is absorbed by the unique molecular
structure of carbon. A bearing is simply the most efficient,
cost effective tool for transferring energy from the component
and into the block - especially the tungsten carbide bearings.
Since the bearing doesn't roll, bearing chatter is eliminated,
performance isn't compromised by dirt and dust, and bass response
remains linear - unlike traditional bearing footers.
Is there a weight limit?
While graphite is formed from loosely bound layers of carbon
molecules, it is extremely tolerant of direct pressure - each
TuneBlock should be able t support several thousand pounds of
pressure before crumbling.
Are there other uses of TuneBlocks?
TuneBlocks may be placed on top of component cases and output
transformers to dampen vibration. They may also be used under
speakers - we recommend using the blocks without the bearings
for use under speakers. |
