Glass versus MDF on AV racks

[Alexhunter27]

Can anyone tell me if it makes any difference whether or not an AVrack uses MDF or glass for it's shelving? I live in the tropics and I am not sure of the absorbative or non-absorbative properties of MDF. Glass would obviously work better here but are sonic short comings to it?

 

[Rickster71]

Hi Alex,
Go with the glass.
MDF doesn't do well with high humidity, and the weight of some heavy components.
Over time it will sag.
As for vibration, you could use rubber, or foam pads to isolate it.

 

[bpape]

I'd agree. I'm not a big fan of glass but the MDF will have structural issues over time most likely.

Bryan

 

[Alexhunter27]

thanks. I thought the glass might be the better way to but wanted another opinion

 

[zildjian]

I personally prefer the look and strength of metal shelf A/V racks. Glass is good too. I like the look of glass, and might use glass if it wasn't for the number of 50-60 pound components/amps I have in my A/V racks and the 60+ pound center channel w/ built in sub. With those components to deal with, I felt better about the metal shelves for my equipment. One guy who had the same center I do (CLR 3000 by Def Tech) had a glass shelf break that was either above or below his CC can't remember which. I'm sure there are many factors that made it break, and it was probably a freak accident, but that made me think twice about putting my CC on one.

I think you're right about the high humidity over a long period being a possible issue for you. Glass or metal may be your best bet. I'm not a fan of a lot of MDF shelves. I'm sure there are some nice ones, but I like the look of my metal Bell'O racks. I've only had a couple MDS shelves, and that was 10 years ago, so I'm sure they are nicer looking ones now. I change out some of the gear in my rack fairly often (amps mostly), and I'd probably chip the MDS shelves.

 

[mtrycrafts]

thanks. I thought the glass might be the better way to but wanted another opinion

Yes, glass is fine but, as was mentioned above, take component weight into account. You may need a thick glass. As the place how much weight it can support. Maybe 1/2" ?

 

[Alexhunter27]

I notice that not many people like MDF and there are those that don't like glass so what brands would anyone recommend? Please do not include the obscenely priced gear fro Audiav.

 

[mtrycrafts]

I notice that not many people like MDF and there are those that don't like glass so what brands would anyone recommend? Please do not include the obscenely priced gear fro Audiav.

How about some nice multi layered plywood, like Baltic Birch? That should be stable even there? You could wok with that yourself, apply edging to hide the ply.

 

[Alexhunter27]

The plywood might be a good idea I know an excellent carpenter here but I am interested more in tower designs than cabinets