Audio T Verdict
The Blok Stax 2G Shelf 120 is the most compact expansion shelf in the modular Stax 2G range, providing a neat home for slim source components and accessories.
Its 120mm clearance is ideal for many streamers, CD transports, DACs, phono stages and separate power supplies, while the 40kg capacity means its low-profile design does not compromise strength.
Integrated isolation, optional mass filling and concealed fixings make it a carefully engineered addition, but warm-running equipment should only be installed where the remaining ventilation space meets the manufacturer’s requirements.
Blok Stax 2G Shelf 120 Hi-Fi Rack Shelf
The Blok Stax 2G Shelf 120 is a low-profile expansion module for an existing Stax 2G Hi-Fi rack.
It adds one additional supporting surface and creates 120mm of usable vertical clearance above the shelf beneath it. This makes it particularly useful for slim digital sources, compact amplification and smaller accessories that do not require the space provided by the taller Shelf 170 or Shelf 220 modules.
Each Shelf 120 is supplied individually, allowing a Stax 2G rack to be expanded or reconfigured as the system changes.
This Is an Expansion Module
The Shelf 120 is not a freestanding equipment rack and does not include floor feet.
It must be attached to a Blok Stax 2G Base Shelf, Collection or compatible Stax 2G shelf structure. A Base Shelf is required at floor level.
120mm Equipment Clearance
The module provides 120mm of usable vertical space between the supporting shelf and the shelf fitted above it.
Potentially suitable equipment includes:
- Network music streamers
- CD transports and slim CD players
- Digital-to-analogue converters
- Phono stages
- Headphone amplifiers
- Compact integrated amplifiers
- Separate power supplies
- Radio tuners
- Music servers and network switches
The equipment must fit safely within the usable shelf area and retain enough surrounding space for ventilation, controls and rear connections.
Allow Space for Ventilation
The 120mm figure is the total usable clearance, not the recommended maximum equipment height.
A component that measures almost 120mm high would leave little or no room for cooling. This may be unsuitable for an amplifier, linear power supply or other product that becomes warm during normal use.
Always follow the component manufacturer’s ventilation guidance and allow additional room for:
- Heat to escape through upper ventilation grilles
- Air to circulate around the casework
- Controls positioned on the upper surface
- Safe installation and removal
- Large plugs and rigid cables
Choose a Taller Shelf When Necessary
The Shelf 170 or Shelf 220 may be more suitable where the equipment is close to 120mm high or requires generous ventilation.
A taller space is preferable to enclosing warm-running electronics too tightly.
40kg Load Capacity
The Shelf 120 supports equipment weighing up to 40kg.
This is the same published capacity as the larger Stax 2G modules, making it suitable for compact but substantial components as well as lightweight sources.
The equipment should be positioned so that its normal supporting feet remain fully within the usable shelf area. Avoid concentrating excessive weight on an edge or placing a component where it can become unstable.
Choice of Tempered Glass or Plywood
The Shelf 120 is available with either a tempered-glass or ash-veneered plywood shelf.
The Black Glass version uses a 10mm tempered-glass panel. Tempered glass creates a rigid supporting surface with a smooth contemporary finish.
The Black Ash and Natural Ash versions use 13mm plywood. Its layered construction provides strength and rigidity while creating a warmer furniture-style appearance.
Three Coordinated Finishes
The official Stax 2G finish combinations are:
- Black Glass shelf with High Gloss Black supports
- Black Ash Plywood shelf with Natural Walnut supports
- Natural Ash Plywood shelf with Satin White supports
The shelf and support finishes are supplied as coordinated combinations. Select the version matching the existing Stax 2G rack for a consistent appearance.
Dimensions Vary by Shelf Material
All versions measure 602mm wide and 402mm deep, but the different shelf thicknesses affect the module’s overall height.
- Black Glass: 133mm high
- Plywood finishes: 135mm high
The module’s external height is greater than its 120mm usable clearance because it includes the shelf panel and structural connections.
Usable Shelf Area
All versions provide approximately 480mm of usable supporting width.
The usable depth to the beginning of the rear cable cut-out is:
- Approximately 387mm with the Black Glass shelf
- Approximately 379mm with the plywood shelves
A component’s casework may extend towards the rear cut-out, but its supporting feet must remain safely positioned on the solid shelf surface.
Rear Cable Cut-Out
The rear edge of the shelf is smoothly cut away to provide additional clearance for mains cables, interconnects and larger connectors.
This allows the rack to sit closer to a wall while reducing sharp cable bends and strain on the component sockets.
Keep enough slack in each cable for equipment to be installed and removed safely. Avoid trapping plugs or cables between the rack and the wall.
Integrated Silicone Isolation
Stax 2G uses silicone isolation pads between its shelves and support sections.
These pads are designed to reduce the transmission of unwanted vibration through the rack while maintaining stable support for the equipment.
The isolation points are concealed once the module has been assembled, preserving the range’s clean modernist appearance.
Mass-Fillable Support Sections
The Shelf 120 support sections contain hollow internal cavities that can be filled with a suitable acoustically inert material.
Each support has an approximate internal capacity of 1.4 litres. Adding mass can increase the weight and damping of the completed rack.
Mass filling is optional and is not required for normal assembly or use.
Select the Filling Material Carefully
Use a clean, dry and stable product intended for audio furniture or speaker stands.
Do not use liquids, wet sand, expanding foam or building materials that may retain moisture, damage the supports or prevent future disassembly.
Concealed Modular Connections
The Shelf 120 attaches to the supporting Stax 2G module through four concealed M10 connections.
Four M10 bolts are included with the shelf. The main Blok assembly tool supplied with a Base Shelf or complete Collection is used to tighten the connections.
The fixings disappear from normal view once the shelf has been assembled, helping the finished rack retain its uncluttered appearance.
Assembly Tools and Floor Feet
As an individual expansion module, the Shelf 120 includes its four M10 connection bolts but does not include another set of floor feet, bolt caps or assembly tools.
The Base Shelf and complete Stax 2G Collections include the principal assembly tool, height-adjustment tool and floor fittings needed to build and level the rack.
Keep these tools after the original rack has been assembled because they may be needed when shelves are added or rearranged later.
Adding the Shelf to an Existing Rack
Switch off and remove the equipment before changing the rack configuration.
Disassemble only the sections needed to install the new module, following Blok’s current assembly guidance and keeping all shelves supported while the fixings are loosened.
After rebuilding the rack:
- Check that every fixing is secure
- Return the empty rack to its final position
- Check that the base remains level and stable
- Confirm that the completed height remains suitable
- Reinstall equipment from the lower shelves upwards
Planning the Shelf Order
Stax 2G modules can be selected to suit the dimensions of individual components.
Place taller Shelf 170 and Shelf 220 modules where amplification or larger equipment requires more space. Use the Shelf 120 for slim components that genuinely suit its lower clearance.
Heavier equipment should normally be positioned towards the lower levels, helping maintain a low centre of gravity and a stable completed rack.
Maximum Recommended Rack Height
Blok recommends that a completed Stax 2G rack should not exceed 1100mm in overall height.
Each additional module increases the rack’s height, weight and centre of gravity. Check the planned configuration before purchasing several shelves.
Do not position a tall rack where children, pets or passing traffic could knock it, and never attempt to move the rack while it is loaded with equipment.
Using the Shelf for Digital Sources
The Shelf 120 is particularly well suited to compact digital products.
Streamers, DACs and transports often have relatively slim cabinets, allowing them to fit comfortably while leaving enough room for ventilation and cable connections.
Check the depth of large mains plugs, USB cables, Wi-Fi aerials and balanced XLR connectors before deciding where the product will sit.
Using the Shelf for Amplification
Blok lists slim integrated amplifiers among the potential applications for the Shelf 120.
Suitability depends on the amplifier’s actual height, temperature and manufacturer’s specified air gap. Many full-size Class AB amplifiers require more space and should be installed beneath a Shelf 170 or Shelf 220 instead.
Do not obstruct top-mounted ventilation grilles or place an amplifier in a confined space simply because its casework physically fits.
Care and Cleaning
Remove equipment before carrying out extensive cleaning or making structural adjustments.
Use a soft, dry or slightly damp microfibre cloth on the supports and plywood shelves.
Apply glass cleaner to the cloth rather than spraying it directly towards equipment, shelf joints or the floor.
Avoid abrasive pads, solvent-based cleaners and excessive moisture.
Key Features
- Low-profile expansion shelf for Blok Stax 2G racks
- Creates 120mm of usable vertical clearance
- 40kg maximum equipment load
- 602mm overall width
- 402mm overall depth
- 480mm usable shelf width
- 387mm usable glass shelf depth to cable cut-out
- 379mm usable plywood shelf depth to cable cut-out
- Choice of 10mm tempered glass or 13mm plywood
- Integrated silicone isolation
- Mass-fillable support sections
- Approximately 1.4-litre internal capacity per support
- Rear cable-management cut-out
- Concealed modular fixings
- Four M10 connection bolts included
- Compatible with existing Stax 2G systems
- Three coordinated finish combinations
- Recommended maximum completed rack height of 1100mm
- Two-year manufacturer’s warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Shelf 120 be used by itself?
No. It is an expansion module and must be attached to a Stax 2G Base Shelf or existing compatible rack.
How much clearance does it provide?
It provides 120mm of usable vertical clearance.
Can I install a 120mm-high component?
That would leave no useful ventilation or installation space. Choose a taller module unless the component manufacturer specifically permits such restricted clearance.
How much weight can it support?
The maximum published load capacity is 40kg.
What are its overall dimensions?
The Black Glass version measures 133 × 602 × 402mm, while the plywood versions measure 135 × 602 × 402mm in height, width and depth order.
What is the usable shelf area?
Usable width is approximately 480mm. Depth to the cable cut-out is 387mm for glass and 379mm for plywood.
Which finishes are available?
Black Glass with High Gloss Black, Black Ash Plywood with Natural Walnut, and Natural Ash Plywood with Satin White.
Can the supports be mass filled?
Yes. Each support has an approximate internal capacity of 1.4 litres.
Are assembly tools included?
The shelf includes four M10 bolts. The main assembly tool is supplied with the Base Shelf and complete Stax 2G Collections.
Can more shelves be added later?
Yes. Shelf 120, Shelf 170, Shelf 220 and LP modules can be combined, provided the completed rack remains stable and below Blok’s recommended 1100mm maximum height.
What warranty is included?
Blok provides a two-year manufacturer’s warranty, subject to its terms and proof of purchase.
Related Blok Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Help measuring equipment and checking clearances
- Advice choosing between 120mm, 170mm and 220mm shelves
- Amplifier ventilation guidance
- Glass and plywood finish comparisons
- Custom Stax 2G rack planning
- Mass-filling guidance
- Safe installation of heavy equipment
- Future expansion and LP storage planning
- Ongoing after-sales assistance
Contact your local Audio T store to check that the Blok Stax 2G Shelf 120 provides sufficient space and ventilation for your equipment.