Hi barry2013
You asked if the HRS rack was overkill. In my opinion, it is not. As long as it’s in the budget, I think it’s an important piece of kit for any system. There seems to be two name brands of audio rack manufacturers that are considered to be the best performing racks. One of them are HRS and the other, which if I were you I would strongly consider, is Critical Mass Systems. As you probably know, CMS racks have 3 levels of “ filters” for each shelf.
I just recently bought a new turntable and I wanted a really good stable foundation to put it on. I bought a 3 level QXK (their middle model) CMS rack. Since the table will obviously sit on the top shelf, I bought their best “filter” for the top. For the two lower shelves I bought their more basic shelves which still offer excellent performance.
The reason I feel that a great rack is not overkill is because no matter what you ever put on that rack, whether now or if you upgrade components in the future, you’ll always get the benefits of what that rack does. Vibration control is very important and we’re just realizing just how important it is.
The other benefit of a great rack is, if you buy a better preamp, you get a better preamp. If you buy a better dac, you get a better dac. However, if you buy a better rack, ALL of your components sounds better. You’ll have that rack forever. My philosophy has always been, buy the best thing you can afford. Audiophiles are always upgrading.
The other item you want to consider, is CMS Center Stage footers. You put a set of 4 of them under a component and after 1-2 weeks they will stabilize and “settle in” and you will not believe the level of improvement they provide. IMHO, they are a must have product. The cool thing is, they will work on any rack. Beware, they are expensive, their best ones (1.5’s) sell for $795.00 each! If you can’t afford them, don’t try them. Once you’ve heard what they are capable of doing, there’s no going back. They are stupid expensive, but worth it.
Regarding speakers, check out an online audio website called audiobacon.net. Read the review of the Gershman Grand Avante Garde speakers. The reviewer thought they were the best sounding floor standing speakers he’s ever heard. Here’s a guy who goes to many of the shows (remember those) and has heard hundreds of speakers and he gave them the website’s highest award. The size should be perfect for your room. The retail price is $15,000.00 per pair. Before you buy anything, you might want to see if you can find a dealer so you can audition them.
The owner of the website is Jay Luong. I’ve found him to be very careful about his opinions on whatever he listens to. He’s not the type of reviewer who gives everything a rave review like some of these reviewers. If anything, he’s pretty conservative and over the years I’ve learned to trust his judgement. I would try to find a dealer and take a listen to them if possible. Good luck with whatever you choose. Take care.
Best regards
Scot