Building A Studio Rack: Monitor Mounting Essentials

Building a studio rack for monitors can be a fun and cost-effective DIY project. The process involves constructing a rack that can house studio equipment such as monitors, keyboards, and other gear. The first step is to determine the required dimensions based on the equipment that needs to be housed. The standard width for audio gear is 19, but it is recommended to add a little extra space for easier installation and removal. The height and depth of the rack will depend on the number of rack units and the specific equipment being used.

When it comes to materials, wood is a common choice, and the type of wood can vary depending on budget and desired aesthetics. Plywood is a popular option, with cabinet-grade plywood being more expensive but offering a nicer finish. Other materials such as aluminium and plastic are also used for their lightweight and durable properties.

The construction process involves cutting the wood to size, assembling the frame, and installing rack rails, casters, and other hardware. It is important to measure and cut precisely to ensure a good fit. The rack can be assembled using wood glue, screws, and brackets, with the option to add a finish such as paint or stain.

Building a studio rack allows for customisation and can be a more affordable option compared to purchasing pre-made racks. It also provides the flexibility to accommodate specific equipment needs and space constraints.

Choosing the right wood

Understand Your Project's Needs

Consider the intended use and environment of your studio rack. Is it for indoor or outdoor use? Will it need to withstand moisture or temperature changes? For example, if you're building a rack for outdoor speakers, you'll want to choose a wood that's resistant to the elements, such as cedar or teak.

Hardwood or Softwood?

Wood is generally categorized into two types: hardwood and softwood. Hardwoods, like oak, walnut, and mahogany, offer strength and durability, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications. They also showcase rich colors and striking grain patterns. Softwoods, such as pine, spruce, and fir, are generally lighter and easier to work with, making them a good choice for beginners.

Popular Wood Types and Their Uses

• Oak is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to fungal attacks, making it a popular choice for furniture, flooring, and even wine barrels.
• Pine is abundant, affordable, and easy to work with. Its ability to accept paint makes it ideal for projects requiring a vibrant color scheme.
• Maple is a dense, strong hardwood with excellent tonal qualities, making it a favorite for musical instruments, kitchen countertops, and bowling alley floors.
• Cedar is a softwood that's resistant to rot, moisture, and insect damage. Its natural oils and pleasant aroma make it a great choice for outdoor furniture, decking, and closet linings.
• Walnut is prized for its rich, dark hues and ease of working, making it ideal for intricate projects like carving and high-end furniture.
• Teak is a tropical hardwood known for its exceptional durability and resistance to decay, often used for outdoor furniture and boat decks.

Be Environmentally Conscious

Consider the environmental impact of your wood choice. Aim for sustainable practices by sourcing wood from suppliers practicing responsible forestry. Fast-growing species like bamboo, reclaimed wood, or sustainable alternatives are excellent eco-friendly options.

Remember, the type of wood you choose will significantly impact the functionality, durability, and aesthetics of your studio rack. Take into account the project requirements, your skill level, budget, and the specific characteristics of different wood types to make the best choice for your creation.

Tools and parts needed

The tools and parts you will need to build a studio rack for monitors will depend on the specific design you choose to follow. Here is a general list of tools and parts you will need:

Tools

• Saw (miter, table, jigsaw, or circular)
• Drill with screw bits or a screwdriver
• Bar clamps (optional)

Parts

• 12 board feet of 1x12" boards
• Wood glue (optional)
• Paint or stain (optional)
• Velcro straps or cable ties (optional but recommended)
• Casters (2 fixed, 2 swivel with locks)
• Rack rails (20U)
• Nails
• Screws
• Wood glue

The casters, boards, nails, screws, and wood glue can be purchased at your local hardware store. The rack rails can be purchased online or at a local music store.

If you want to add your own custom touches to the rack, you can choose to use different types of wood, paints, or stains. You can also decide how tall you want the rack to be and how many sections it will have.

Once you have gathered all the necessary tools and parts, you can begin building your studio rack by following the steps outlined in the sources.

Cutting the wood

The first step in building a studio rack for your monitors is to cut the wood to the required size and shape. Here are the detailed instructions for this process:

Start by selecting the type of wood you want to use. If you plan to paint the rack, you can choose a cheaper option with more flaws, as the paint will cover them. If you prefer a natural wood look, opt for a nicer piece of wood and consider staining it to enhance its beauty. You can easily find suitable wood at stores like Home Depot or Lowes. A common dimension is 4' x 8' x 3/4", which will yield enough material for two racks if you use scrap wood for the bottom.

Once you have your wood, use a pencil and a straight edge to mark the following dimensions precisely:

• Bottom width: 19.5"
• Height: 29.5"
• Top width: 16.75"
• Kick plate height: 3" above the bottom dimension
• Draw a line connecting the top of the kick plate dimension to the end of the top width

If your wood has straight edges, you can use them as a reference for cutting. Otherwise, consider clamping a straight edge along the cutting line to guide your saw.

When cutting the side pieces, start with the top or bottom cuts and finish with the angled cut. You can use a table saw for precise cuts, but any saw will do. If using a table saw, set the blade to the desired depth and carefully push the wood through, ensuring straight and smooth cuts. If using a handheld saw, clamp a straight edge along the cutting line and adjust the blade to the desired depth. Cut along the line, making sure to follow your markings accurately.

After cutting one side piece, trace its shape onto the remaining wood to ensure symmetry and consistency in your cuts. Cut out the second side piece using the same technique.

Next, create the kick plates, which will be attached to the front and back of the rack for stability and aesthetics. Cut two pieces of wood to the following dimensions:

• Width: 19 1/8"
• Height: 3"

For the lid, which will sit on top of the rack, cut a piece of wood with the following dimensions:

• Width: 22.5"
• Length: 18.5"

This lid is designed with a 1-inch overhang on all sides, but you can adjust this to your preference.

Finally, cut the bottom piece, which will sit inside the kick plate and the sides. You can also choose to have the bottom extend beneath the sides and kick plate if you prefer. Cut the wood to these dimensions:

• Width: 19 1/8"
• Length: 18"

Now that all the pieces are cut, you can move on to the next step, which is assembling the rack.

Painting/staining the wood

Painting or staining the wood is an important step in building a studio rack, as it not only adds a personal touch but also protects the wood. Here are some detailed instructions for this process:

Before you begin painting or staining, it is crucial to prepare the wood surface. Use a fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge to smooth out any rough edges and create a uniform surface. Wipe away any dust or debris with a lint-free cloth to ensure the wood is clean.

If you plan to stain the wood, choose a high-quality interior stain that matches your desired colour. Using a natural-bristled paintbrush, apply the stain evenly across the wood, following the direction of the grain. Allow the stain to penetrate the wood, and then wipe away any excess with a clean cloth. For a lighter stain, a single coat may suffice, but for a darker shade, you may need to apply additional coats. Remember to allow the stain to dry thoroughly between coats, and lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish.

On the other hand, if you prefer to paint the wood, opt for a high-quality interior paint in your chosen colour and finish. Apply the paint with a paintbrush, ensuring even coverage. Follow the instructions on the paint can for recommended drying times.

In both cases, proper ventilation is essential during the painting or staining process. Set up your workspace in a well-ventilated area, and consider using a drop cloth to protect your work area. Additionally, wear protective gear, such as gloves, to avoid getting paint or stain on your skin.

Once the paint or stain is completely dry, you can further customise and protect the wood with a coat of spar varnish. This will add a glossy finish and provide an extra layer of defence against scratches and stains.

Finally, if you're using metal hooks or other hardware, don't forget to prime and paint or stain them as well, using appropriate products like spray primer and metallic spray paint. Allow them to dry completely before attaching them to the wood.

By following these steps, you'll end up with a studio rack that not only functions well but also reflects your personal style and adds character to your space.

Putting the rack together

Now that you have all your materials, it's time to start building your studio rack. The first step is to cut the boards to the desired length and assemble the basic frame. Determine the dimensions of your rack based on the amount of gear you plan to store and the space you have available. Using a saw, cut the boards to the following sizes: two 36x12" boards for the sides and two 20 5/8" x 12" boards for the top and bottom. This will give you enough space to accommodate 20U rack rails and standard 19-inch rack gear.

Once the boards are cut, you can assemble the frame by nailing or screwing the pieces together. For added strength, you can also apply wood glue along the joints and use bar clamps to hold them in place while the glue dries.

The next step is to install the casters, which will allow your rack to roll easily. Flip the frame over and dry-fit the casters on the bottom, making sure they are positioned for maximum manoeuvrability. You can choose to use fixed casters or swivel casters, or a combination of both. Once you are happy with the placement, attach the casters using screws and a drill, or a screwdriver if you prefer.

Now it's time to install the rack rails, which will hold your gear in place. Line up the rails with the frame and secure them using screws. Again, don't skimp on the screws, as they will bear the weight of your equipment. If you have a rack blank or other rackmount accessory, you can use it as a guide to get the spacing perfect.

With the frame, casters, and rack rails in place, your studio rack is now ready for your gear. Carefully install each piece of equipment, making sure not to cross-thread the rack screws. Start from the bottom and work your way up, using the secured gear to hold the pieces above while you screw them in. Remember to leave a rack space between any tube-powered gear for heat dissipation.

Once all your gear is in place, it's time to tackle the cabling. Plug in all the cables and use velcro straps or cable ties to keep them organised and tucked away. Good wire management is essential for both aesthetics and functionality, so take your time with this step.

And that's it! Your studio rack is now complete and ready to use. Turn on your gear, test it out, and start making music.

Frequently asked questions