A few things learned from computer racks more so than audio, but still apply

Rear access to the wiring closet will prove super valuable.

You pay a bit more for proper racks with metal, mesh shelving but it helps a lot with cooling as many items have vents on the bottom.

You can sometimes find used server racks for cheap that might fit in your space. Nice because some have built in cooling and some are filled with AC power access up anbd down. However, they are often still very overpriced for used because they sell fast. Probably overkill unless you stumble upon a bargain.

Getting a rack that allows for rack mounting is nice if you have gear that can utilize it.

If you need extra cooling (and extra never hurts) you can get very quiet fans if you do your research. Quiet PC fans can be a very inexpensive option if $ are tight, if properly located.

As per above, if you are buying additional cooling, plan you airflow accordingly. Having every fan blow inward at your gear will be much weaker than having air blown in and also blown out, making a constantly moving stream of fresh air.

You would need or benefit greatly from some sort of RF to IR Blaster device, but I'm sure you knew that.

Plan your wiring. Keep it as structured as possible. Nothing is worse than a peicemealed, rat's nest of wiring. Keeping all the AC cords running down one side away from the audio cable on the other gives good peace of mind, if nothing else, on the interference/shielding front.

Most importantly, have as many glowing, blue LEDs as possible.


With great power comes Awesome irresponsibility.