How to position the amp rack

[Frank DeWitt]

Originally Posted by Richard Tarr

The amp is rack mounted and hard to get to...snip .

I was going to reply to the above but I didn't want to take the thread off topic. I found out the hard way on a Sunday morning 20 min before the service that amps in a rack with there back to the wall is the wrong way to mount them.

The amp feeding the mains failed. I could use the monitor amp, but moving those speaker cables in the August heat while the sanctuary was filling with people was not fun.

A few weeks later we turned the rack so one side of the amps are parallel with the wall. Now I can still walk up to them and check lights, ETC or I can walk past them and easily get at the connections on the back. I have never seen this done, but I like it.

Frank

[cmchamp]

For what it's worth Frank, I know install amp racks with rolling/pivoting racks so that they can be more serviceable by myself especially. I'm 44, but still not as young as I used to be.

[josh.allgood]

I'm a newbie here, so please forgive me if I'm out of line. Rolling/pivoting racks are incredible, even priceless in the right spot. The more cable motion permitted the higher the risk of failure. I've had the best success as Frank suggested when space is available. This also allows better air flow allowing the amps to operate at lower temps. Most of the churches I've worked for were setup this way, both big and small.

In the instance a where a roll/pivot is needed add some computer style fans to the rack. Check your amps mfr data to see what airflow they recommend (in from front, bottom, or other and out back, top, or other) Cory, do you favor any particular brand or design? I've found most to be high $$$.

[cmchamp]

Josh
Welcome Aboard
I'm a Raxxess and Gator dealer and also have access to Middle Atlantic and Atlas.
The last one I put in, I actually installed hinged myself on 4" castors and barn hinges. The rack had extra depth more than adequate vents for airflow.
As for cable motion, I place all cables within a flex wrap cable tied to the hinge. I service that install every 6 months for cleaning and check the cables for wear. None yet after 4 years, but I'm the only one that moves it (that I know of).

[Richard Tarr]

Just for the record, our rack can be accessed front and rear, but some portable equipment needs to be moved to reach the rear of the amps and if needed it can be slid forward for better access.

[Tim Padrick]

Our rack is on a hard floor. I made and installed 2" dia. Teflon feet, which make it easy to spin it for access. Don't know how easy it would spin on office carpet - depends on the weight I expect.