What size rack case do I need for my equipment?

To determine the correct rack case size, first calculate the total rack units (U) required by adding up all your equipment heights — each 1U equals 44.45 mm or 1.75 inches. Add 2–4U of spare capacity for future expansion and cable routing. For depth, measure your deepest piece of equipment from the front mounting ears to the rear connectors, then add 50–80 mm for cable clearance. Most professional audio processors fit in standard 400–500 mm depth cases, while power amplifiers often require 550–650 mm or deeper. If you're unsure, consult the equipment manufacturer's specifications for recommended rack depth, or contact our technical team for guidance on your specific configuration.

What is the best material for a rack case?

Professional touring rack cases are typically constructed from rotationally moulded polyethylene or injection-moulded ABS plastic, both offering excellent impact resistance and weather protection. Polyethylene cases, such as those from Peli, provide superior shock absorption and can withstand extreme temperature variations, making them ideal for airline transport and outdoor events. ABS cases offer a lighter weight option with good impact resistance, suitable for road transport and venue-to-venue touring. Both materials outperform traditional plywood cases in terms of water resistance and long-term durability. For maximum protection, look for cases with double-walled construction, reinforced corners and moulded-in metal inserts at stress points.

How much do professional rack cases cost?

Professional rack case prices vary significantly based on size, construction quality and protection features. Basic 4U shallow cases start around €80–120, suitable for effects processors and small equipment. Mid-range 8U–12U cases with standard depth typically cost €200–400, offering good protection for most touring applications. Premium shock-mounted cases in the 12U–21U range, meeting ATA Category I specifications, range from €500–1,200 or more, depending on depth and features. Custom-built cases with specific dimensions or specialised internal configurations command higher prices but provide optimal protection for valuable equipment. When evaluating cost, consider the value of the equipment being protected — a €600 case is a sound investment when safeguarding €10,000 worth of audio processors or lighting controllers.

Can I get custom-sized rack cases?

Yes, custom-sized rack cases are available for equipment that doesn't fit standard configurations. Many manufacturers offer made-to-measure services where you specify the exact internal dimensions, rack unit height, depth and any special features like custom foam inserts, additional cable ports or specific hardware placement. Custom cases are particularly valuable for unusual equipment combinations, vintage gear with non-standard dimensions, or integrated systems that must travel as a single unit. Lead times for custom cases typically range from 2–6 weeks depending on complexity, with prices generally 30–50% higher than equivalent standard sizes. For truly unique requirements, LTT can arrange custom case production through our manufacturing partners, ensuring your equipment receives optimal protection tailored to its specific dimensions and transport conditions.

What are cage nuts and why are they used in rack mounting?

Cage nuts are spring-loaded metal clips that snap into the square holes of 19" rack rails, providing threaded mounting points for securing equipment with rack screws. They consist of a metal cage that grips the rail and a captive nut (typically 10-32 thread in North America or M6 in Europe) that receives the mounting screw. Cage nuts are preferred over fixed threaded rails because they can be positioned anywhere along the rail to match equipment mounting hole spacing, they're easily replaced if threads become damaged, and they can be installed from the front of the rack without requiring rear access — crucial when working with deep cases or densely populated equipment racks. Professional technicians typically install cage nuts in matched pairs at each mounting point, ensuring even load distribution across the equipment's mounting ears.

How do shock-mounted rack cases protect equipment?

Shock-mounted rack cases protect sensitive equipment by suspending the internal rack frame on rubber or spring isolators that absorb impact energy and dampen vibration during transport. When the case experiences a shock — such as being dropped or subjected to rough handling — the isolators compress and extend, converting the sudden impact into slower, gentler motion that the equipment can tolerate. Quality shock mounting systems reduce peak G-forces by 60–80%, transforming a potentially damaging 20G impact into a manageable 4–8G load at the equipment level. This protection is essential for hard-drive-based systems, precision electronics and delicate digital processors that can suffer component damage, data corruption or calibration drift from excessive shock. Shock-mounted cases are particularly valuable for airline transport, where baggage handling can subject cases to severe impacts and vibration.

What does an IP65 rating mean for rack cases?

An IP65 rating indicates that a rack case is completely dust-tight (the "6" rating) and protected against water jets from any direction (the "5" rating). The IP (Ingress Protection) code is an international standard that defines protection levels against solid particles and liquids. A dust-tight case prevents any dust ingress even during prolonged exposure to dusty environments, essential for outdoor festivals, desert locations or industrial settings. The water jet protection means the case can withstand direct spray from a 6.3 mm nozzle at 12.5 litres per minute from any angle without water entering the case interior — adequate protection for outdoor events where equipment may be exposed to rain during setup or breakdown. IP65-rated cases achieve this protection through precision-engineered gasket systems and sealed cable entry points, making them suitable for demanding outdoor and touring applications.

Which rack accessories are essential for a touring system?

Essential rack accessories for professional touring systems include: cage nuts and rack screws (10-32 or M6) for equipment mounting; blanking panels to fill unused rack spaces and improve airflow; heavy-duty rack shelves for non-standard equipment; ventilation panels or fan systems for heat management; power distribution units with individual circuit breakers; cable management accessories including D-rings, cable ties and brush panels for organised routing; and replacement hardware such as butterfly latches, spring-loaded handles and ball corners for case maintenance. For systems subject to rigging, add load-rated suspension brackets and quick-release clamps. Most touring technicians also carry a selection of rack screws in various lengths, spare cage nuts, and basic hand tools for on-site adjustments. Investing in quality accessories from manufacturers like Riggatec®, Adam Hall and Neutrik ensures reliability and compatibility across your entire equipment inventory.

Case/rack accessories

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87451 SMART 19" LED Sensor Rack Light 1 HE

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87451 SMART - 19" LED Sensor Rack Light 1 U white

19" LED Sensor Rack Light 1 U white Professional Rack Light with patented Smart Motion Sensor Technology • Strip with 18 LEDs • Timer control and adjustable sleep mode dimmer...

€62.74 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87471 T 19" Steckdosenleiste 8-fach

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87471 T - 19" Rackmount 8 Outlet Power Strip

19" Rackmount 8 Outlet Power Strip Rated @ 250 V, 16 A • 8 x 45° angle rear outlets • Illuminated on/off switch • Removable power supply with black-yellow power twist...

€58.14 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87451 SMART C 19"-Multicolor-Racklight

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87451 SMART C - 19" LED Sensor Rack Light 1 U Multicolour

19" LED Sensor Rack Light 1 U Multicolour Professional rack light with patented Smart Motion Sensor Technology • Strip with 18 LEDs • Independent colour selection for active mode and...

€72.05 *

incl. tax, free shipping to Germany
[International shipping costs]

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87471 IEC 19" Steckdosenleiste 10-fach, IEC

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87471 IEC - 19'' 1U Mains Power Strip with 10 IEC Connectors

19'' 1U Mains Power Strip with 10 IEC Connectors Max. Amperage 10 A • 10 x IEC C13 grounded rear outlets • Illuminated on/off switch • Push-to-reset circuit breaker • 10 x 1.5 m...

€88.50 *

incl. tax, free shipping to Germany
[International shipping costs]

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 874 E 02 ERGO 19" Rackschublade 2HE

Adam Hall 19" Parts 874 E 02 - ERGO 19" Rack Drawer 2 U

ERGO 19" Rack Drawer 2 U Heavy-duty 1.5 mm steel construction • Ergonomic full width pull handle • Pull-to-open latching mechanism • Full extension ball bearing slides...

€51.72 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87402 A CL Rackschublade 2 HE Alu mit Zahlenschloss

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87402 A CL - Rack Drawer 2 U Aluminium with Built-In Combination Lock

Rack Drawer 2 U Aluminium with Built-In Combination Lock Full extension • Drawer on ball-bearing slide-in rail • Combination lock • Removable by quick disconnection of the slide-in...

€127.70 *

incl. tax, free shipping to Germany
[International shipping costs]

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87404 A CL Rackschublade 4 HE Alu mit Zahlenschloss

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87404 A CL - Rack Drawer 4 U Aluminium with Built-In Combination Lock

Rack Drawer 4 U Aluminium with Built-In Combination Lock Full extension • Drawer on ball-bearing slide-in rail • Combination lock • Removable by quick disconnection of the slide-in...

€150.62 *

incl. tax, free shipping to Germany
[International shipping costs]

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87402 CL Rackschublade 2 HE Stahl mit Zahlenschloss

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87402 CL - Rack Drawer 2 U Steel with Built-In Combination Lock

Rack Drawer 2 U Steel with Built-In Combination Lock Full extension • Drawer on ball-bearing slide-in rail • Combination lock • Removable by quick disconnection of the slide-in rails...

€101.58 *

incl. tax, free shipping to Germany
[International shipping costs]

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87403 CL Rackschublade 3 HE Stahl mit Zahlenschloss

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87403 CL - Rack Drawer 3 U Steel with Built-In Combination Lock

Rack Drawer 3 U Steel with Built-In Combination Lock Full extension • Drawer on ball-bearing slide-in rail • Combination lock • Removable by quick disconnection of the slide-in rails...

€112.18 *

incl. tax, free shipping to Germany
[International shipping costs]

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87404 CL Rackschublade 4 HE Stahl mit Zahlenschloss

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87404 CL - Rack Drawer 4 U Steel with Built-In Combination Lock

Rack Drawer 4 U Steel with Built-In Combination Lock Full extension • Drawer on ball-bearing slide-in rail • Combination lock • Removable by quick disconnection of the slide-in rails...

€118.39 *

incl. tax, free shipping to Germany
[International shipping costs]

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 874 E 01 - ERGO 19" Rackschublade 1 HE

Adam Hall 19" Parts 874 E 01 - ERGO 19" Rack Drawer 1 U

ERGO 19" Rack Drawer 1 U Heavy-duty 1.5 mm steel construction • Ergonomic full width pull handle • Pull-to-open latching mechanism • Full extension ball bearing slides...

Express delivery possible

€48.49 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Express delivery possible

Availability:

Delivery time: 1-3 days

Delivery time: 1-3 days

Adam Hall 19" Parts 874 E 03 - ERGO 19" Rackschublade 3 HE

Adam Hall 19" Parts 874 E 03 - ERGO 19" Rack Drawer 3 U

ERGO 19" Rack Drawer 3 U Heavy-duty 1.5 mm steel construction • Ergonomic full width pull handle • Pull-to-open latching mechanism • Full extension ball bearing slides...

€63.05 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall Accessories 1643 - 3-stelliges Zahlenschloss für Rackschubladen

Adam Hall 19" Parts 1643 - 3-Digit Combination Lock for Rack Drawers

3-Digit Combination Lock for Rack Drawers Quickly installed and secured: This high-quality zinc alloy combination lock can be installed in the standard 19 mm sections of conventional rack drawers...

€12.00 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 874 E 04 - ERGO 19" Rackschublade 4 HE

Adam Hall 19" Parts 874 E 04 - ERGO 19" Rack Drawer 4 U

ERGO 19" Rack Drawer 4 U Heavy-duty 1.5 mm steel construction • Ergonomic full width pull handle • Pull-to-open latching mechanism • Full extension ball bearing slides...

€67.05 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87551 19" Rackwanne 1 HE 375 mm tief

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87551 - 19" Rack Tray 1 U 375 mm depth

19" Rack Tray 1 U 375 mm depth 19" Rack Tray extra deep for mounting non standard equipment with a depth of up to 375 mm • Rear edges is folded up 10 mm for extra stability...

€24.14 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

ACCESSORY Rackboden 1HE mit Lüftungslöchern

ACCESSORY Rackbase 1U with ventilation holes

(19") 48.3 cm rack installation 1 U • Material: Steel • Color: Black • Mounting depth: 270 mm • Housing design: (19") 48.3 cm rack installation 1 U • Dimensions:...

€23.90 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Delivery time: 3-5 days

Delivery time: 3-5 days

ACCESSORY Rackboden 2HE mit Lüftungslöchern

ACCESSORY Rackbase 2U with ventilation holes

(19") 48.3 cm rack installation 2 U • Color: Black • Housing design: (19") 48.3 cm rack installation 2 U • Dimensions: Width: 48,30 cm Depth: 36,80 cm • Weight: 1,85...

€36.90 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Delivery time: 3-5 days

Delivery time: 3-5 days

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87402 S - Rack Drawer 2 U Steel with 200 mm Depth

Rack Drawer 2 U Steel with 200 mm Depth Fully pulled out • Drawer on ball-bearing rails • Incl. lock and two keys • Can be removed by quickly disconnecting the rails • Tools not...

€54.90 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

LD Systems U300 RK 2 - Rackmount Kit for U300 Dual Receiver

Rackmount Kit for U300 Dual Receiver Steel with black powder coating finish • Includes blanking plugs and mounting screws • This kit allows mounting a U300 Dual Receiver into a standard...

€22.49 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 874 E 02 A - ERGO 19" Aluminium Rack Drawer 2 U

ERGO 19" Aluminium Rack Drawer 2 U Robust 1.5 mm aluminium construction • Continuous grip for ergonomic handling • Snap lock with 1.5 kg tensile strength • Ball bearing mounted,...

€81.77 *

incl. tax, free shipping to Germany
[International shipping costs]

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87402 MI - Microphone Foam Inlay for 2U Rack Drawer

Microphone Foam Inlay for 2U Rack Drawer Suitable for a 2 U rack drawer with full pull out • For 4 x wireless microphones and 4 x bodypacks • Accessories tray for cables and batteries...

€42.20 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 87410 V - 19" Housing 4 U Rackmount with Vent Slots

19" Housing 4 U Rackmount with Vent Slots 19" Housing, with ventilation slots in top panel • Flat-packed with screws • : Product type: 19" Rack Accessories • Material:...

€89.04 *

incl. tax, free shipping to Germany
[International shipping costs]

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 874 E 03 A - ERGO 19" Aluminium Rack Drawer 3 U

ERGO 19" Aluminium Rack Drawer 3 U Robust 1.5 mm aluminium construction • Continuous grip for ergonomic handling • Snap lock with 1.5 kg tensile strength • Ball bearing mounted,...

€92.40 *

incl. tax, free shipping to Germany
[International shipping costs]

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Adam Hall 19" Parts 874 E 04 A - ERGO 19" Aluminium Rack Drawer 4 U

ERGO 19" Aluminium Rack Drawer 4 U Robust 1.5 mm aluminium construction • Continuous grip for ergonomic handling • Snap lock with 1.5 kg tensile strength • Ball bearing mounted,...

€95.59 *

incl. tax, free shipping to Germany
[International shipping costs]

Availability:

Near-term available
Delivery time: approx. 1 week

Delivery time: approx. 1 week