Boston Audio TuneBlocks Classic (set of 3)
TuneBlocks utilize the uniquely low acoustic impedance of carbon graphite to efficiently drain mechanical energy from audio components. You'll notice reduced transient smearing and increased resolution of the component 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 other hi-fi components 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 contains either four or six (XT model) cubic inches of carbon. 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 – concentrating the weight of the component into a small area, allowing vibrations to be more efficiently drained into the carbon block.
"The TuneBlocks by Boston Audio Design are a simple design with outstanding results that should catapult this young company into prominence in the High End audio community. By lowering the noise floor, they allow the inner details to come through and the dynamic passages to explode. Improved timbre, in particular, brought the recordings much closer to real life. On both my analog and digital front ends, the bass extended deeper and tighter than I thought the components were capable of performing." Rick Becker – EnjoytheMusic.com
TuneBlocks come standard with a set of chromium steel bearings, and we also offer an upgraded set of 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.
Each block is 2 inches square and either 1 or 1.5 (XT model) inches high.
Why a carbon graphite footer?
Graphite is one of the two commonly available forms of carbon – the other is diamond. Contrary to popular belief, carbon graphite is NOT the same as carbon fiber. In fact, they are entirely different materials with nearly opposite mechanical properties (see the Mat 1 white paper for more details).
The great advantage of carbon graphite is that it has uniquely low mechanical impedance, meaning that it has a very low resistance to mechanical energy. This means graphite is very efficient at absorbing energy. And, because the mechanical impedance is so low, it evenly, neutrally absorbs energy across all but the very lowest frequencies, leaving no sonic signature of its own. That’s why we tend to describe the effects of using our products with words like “clarity” rather than “more bass” or “sparkling treble”. While you will experience audible gains with our products worthy of standard audiophile lexicon, unlike many other accessories, our products are not tone controls.
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.
Do you have a money-back guarantee?
Absolutely. We are so confident you’ll like our products that we offer a 30-day money back guarantee. If you’re unhappy with your purchase for any reason, you’ll get a full refund of the purchase price.