Building a console frame

[Text_Edifice]

Hi all,

I'm looking at importing a d&r console and it seems like it would be heaps cheaper to ship without the console frame. The modules contain all the i/o etc. so the frame really is just a frame to hold the modules wih some shielding.

So anyway, was wondering if anyone had some advice on getting a frame built / repurposing something. Is it worth the grief / cost?

On face value it seems like a nice way to get a small-ish (16-24ch) mix console that will make my workflow a lot easier.

All thoughts welcome.

Cheers

[Wiz]

I have this running around my brain as well.

I have a soundcraft delta coming, and I was thinking about building the modules into a studio desk (wood) type deal...

interested to see what people add here, tips wise..

[Sammas]

How much cheaper is heaps cheaper?

[Text_Edifice]

In terms of shipping - close to the sale price of the console.

[Sammas]

In terms of shipping - close to the sale price of the console.

How are you shipping it?

[Text_Edifice]

depends on the frame ;-)

Seller is organising (so obv have to double check their prices) but cheapest possible. The frame is heavy and the console is otherwise reasonably cheap.

[Sammas]

I would investigate less than a container load (LCL) sea freight. There are a variety of options including wharf to wharf or door to wharf that can make it cheaper. You will need customs brokerage and fumigation certificates organised as well though. It is possible (and not too hard) to lodge the AQIS documents without a broker, but you need the appropriate certificates. I would speak with AQIS before shipping if you goes this route.

While scrapping the frame will save money on shipping, my concern would be that the cost of building a new frame plus the devaluation it would cause would significantly outweigh the cost to ship the frame in the first place.

[Text_Edifice]

You might be right Nath.

The only reason I'm really considering it is that the frame is just a frame, no connectors, no electronics, no legs - nice armrest though.

It may be getting something built is too expensive, in which case shipping the frame or keeping on the lookout for something local makes more sense.

[gigpiglet]

naths experience may vary
but i would strongly recommend only using a broker for international freight
its sooooo easy to miss somethign tiny, that costs you a fortune (or holds your goods up for months) for the small amount of extra money, its a lot less hassle.
in my experience of course.

[Text_Edifice]

This is totally an exerise in costing hassle.

No point saving a little bit of cash and creating grief.

There are a couple of smaller consoles going in Oz that might also fit the bill and it may be that getting the thing here turns a good deal into a pain.

This particular board being completely modular with a very simple (but clean) signal path appeals because I could do most of any servicing myself and parts are easily available.