****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
I bought this to replace a smaller end table that housed my electronics. While it was sufficient, the closed back made changing connections or moving gear in and out really bothersome. In addition, I was expanding my system, adding an amplifier (actually a Fisher 500C valve receiver for now,) a DAC along with a turntable to be inserted relatively soon. So I needed more capacity and more utility.I looked at furniture that was purpose built as audio racks. While some would fit the bill at a reasonable cost, and at least one provided cable management facility, all were more expensive and most were too tall for my needs. I finally settled on the Zinus, a brand totally unknown to me. Most of the reviews were positive. One reviewer mentioned that the shelves were not high enough qualify for his tastes, so he had new shelves made. The shelves are not fine furniture grade, no one should expect them to be at this price. Personally I think they are fine given the price ($49USD at time of my purchase,) and if I ever feel the need for something better, it will be easy enough to have alternates made.I agree that the shelf colour is not really “espresso”; yes, it is quite reddish, like a reddish umber. It doesn’t exactly match my cabinets, but I’m not going for a spread in Architectural Digest, and to be honest I really like the colour.Assembly was very easy. While an Allen wrench is included to affix the bolts, I used a power screwdriver to make it easier to get proper torque. Altogether it took about 10 minutes. If I were to assemble another unit, it would take me five - easy peasy! I especially like the minimal modern styling, the clean lines.I haven’t finished the entire installation yet - I need to do a better job of dressing and hiding all the cables, the amp is on order, a phono preamp is needed, and the turntable will be restored before I’m all done. I’ve added a photo of the current, early stage installation. I would gladly buy another if the need were to arise. In a bigger room I could see adding another to serve as either a second equipment rack or a coffee table. Yeah, I’m pleased.
