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The CAPI 511-VPR XLR Filtered Rack Bundle is a complete kit solution for someone who wants to build a rock-solid yet affordable fully VPR compliant, 500 series rack. We have chosen to go with eleven module slots, which will then require an outboard PSU. This is the Filtered version of the all XLR rack. That means that the backplane behind slots 9-11 has electronic components to filter out the potential remnants of an outboard switch mode power supply. While designed with a SMPS in mind, there is absolutely no harm in using a linear PSU with this filtered rack. This VPR version includes all 15-pin card edge connectors as well as a PC mount 5-pin Neutrik connector for the DC power inlet. All audio in and out connections are made with XLR's. No other parts, components, pieces or hardware are required to finish the rack portion of the build. The 3RU enclosure once constructed, can house any and all modules that are 500 series compatible. Please note: This rack kit does include module mounting screws. So what exactly is VPR? "VPR" is the standardization created by API to describe the physical and electronic requirements of their 500 series rack and module format. This format is based on a 15-pin card edge connector. Besides the standard balanced input and output connections, the DC voltages are bipolar 16V as well as 48V for phantom. So, how do our DIY kits compare to the cost of "store bought" racks? Here's the breakdown: A CAPI 511-VPR XLR Filtered Rack Kit and a VPR-SMPS comes to $435.99, which is equal to $39.64 per slot. The 500VPR 10-slot rack is currently $945.25, which is equal to $94.53 per slot. In comparison, DIY is 58.1% less expensive! The Powerhouse (as well as Sweet Ten) 10-slot racks are currently $899.99, which is equal to $90.00 per slot. In comparison, DIY is 56% less expensive! This rack DOES NOT come with a PSU. Budget minded switch mode PSU's can be found here. Here are required items that we do not carry at the store: Solder, soldering iron and basic small hand tools Good assembly skills A decent understanding of schematics and electronic components ***Please note: If you are outside of North America, feel free to contact my colleagues Volker Mayer in Germany and Cemal Ozturk in Scotland to see if they have stock! They do not carry my exact CAPI kits but they both have their own versions including the 51x format. kitorder[at]51xAudio[dot]com
Additional information and photos:
Cost of separate items: US$356.48
500 Series Rack Kits
Individual Items
Aluminum Control Knobs
