This specialist hi-fi rack from Newcastle's Custom Design is a simple yet effective design that lets the kit speak for itself like few others at its price point. In its standard form this basic structure is simply adorned with glass shelves but other options are available including wood veneered versions and the superb Concept Acoustic 400, which uses Acoustic Aluminium shelves to even better sonic effect. Hi-Fi Choice - The Hi-Fi Awards December 2004. Best equipment support under £500.00.

It would fit beautifully into any style-conscious home, especially those with a stainless-steel bent. We tested this model with the optional spikes, which cost £30 and this is a wise investment, because they create a very solid connection between the rack and your floor. Listening to the effect of the stand is a positive experience. Presentation becomes extreely clear and if you;re a fan of fast, pure-sounding kit, then this rack might well suit you. Bass is firm, with plenty of definition and the midrange is packed full of detail. We can heartily recommend this. What Hi-Fi Sound and Vision August 2004. Verdict - Excellent build quality and neat looks, plus a clear and controlled delivery, make the Concept 400 a great idea.

"This very practical rack is made almost entirely of Custom Design's 'Acoustic Steel' and 'Acoustic Aluminum', giving it remarkably little sonic signature...........It helps produce an overall system sound thats detailed and neutral, with no overhang or artificially boosted bass 'speed' ". (Hi-Fi Awards 2003) PRODUCT OF THE YEAR

The signature of the basic structure is writ very small indeed. There seems to be a touch of midband coloration but it\'s hard to be absolutely sure. This stands\'s unusual lack of upper-bass character, where other stands seem to add \'speed\' to the bass. The hardest test of all, putting a naked stand near the speakers, revealed only some slight veiling in the upper midband- certainly no bass thump or hang - and even the veiling largely cleared up once the shelves were realistically loaded. For best results, put even more acoustic steel on casework. Hi-Fi Choice November 2003 Best Buy overall score 85% / sound 92%