Hey Guys,

I just finished purchasing all of the components for my first stereo system. Now that I have everything together my Dad and I are going to build a nice cabinet to put everything in.

Here is the order that I want to use.
(Top to Bottom)

1. Turntable (Will sit on top of the cabinet)
2. SACD/DVD-A Player
3. Cassette Deck
4. Tuner
5. Preamplifier
6. Power Amplifier
7. Power Conditioner

-The Cabinet itself will have solid side walls, possible open back, possible glass door(s)

-I have read that Spruce is a good wood to use for building a rack because of its structure. (anyone have sources to back this up / other recommendations for wood?)

-I am planning on leaving a blank space between my Amp and Preamp for venting (Using a dummy wood plate on the front of the cabinet to fill the space) How much space do I need on top of my Amp for proper ventilation? Its an NAD 2400 Power Amp -100w per channel if that makes any difference.

-A general question concerning venting... How much space should I allow on the top and sides of each component for adequate ventilation? Is there a general measurement that is used for that?

-Should I make each shelf fixed, or design the cabinet to be fully adjustable? Mix of both? (Fixed for Amp and Power conditioner - adjustable for sources)

-Any feelings on a glass door(s) For or Against?

-Is it better to leave the back open for cabling and such? Or should I have customized openings in the back for each component?

-Any suggestions for feet? (I don't know if I will have the cabinet setting on a hard surface or on carpeting - I am moving this summer)

*Sorry for the overload of questions, I really want to make a quality cabinet for my system.

-If anything else comes to mind about custom rack construction... (Isolation, Materials, Design) I would be happy to hear anything and everything.

Thanks,
-Ben-