1. Before purchasing a 500 Series module, you will need a chassis or enclosure to house and power it. 500 Series Rack/Chassis come in a variety of configurations, from two to ten slots. Some enclosures are designed to fit into a standard 19' rack, while others are offered in more portable tabletop design and include handles for ease in transport.
2. Black Lion Audio PBR8 8 Slot 500-Series Rack/Patchbay. Product Price $899.00. A Designs 503HR 500-Series 3-Slot Rack. Product Price $325.00. Empress Effects ECM 519 500-Series Compressor Module. Product Price $699.00. Dbx 510 Series Subharmonic Synthesizer.

500 Series racks...

There are lots of options, with many features, spanning a wide range of prices. ' 500 Series is a standard format; all racks should perform the same right?' If only that were true.

Just like preamps, all 500 series rack units perform the same objective duty, but some are built to higher specifications than others, and thus will perform with lower noise and bring out the sonic potential of the audio circuits. Yes, a $300 rack will power your gear and provide I/O. The question is whether it will actually sound good and give you many years of reliable service. It's not sexy, but power is the lifeblood of your audio gear. The better your power supplies, the better your audio will sound. In general you get what you pay for and we recommend not treating the rack as a commodity that can simply be compared by current supply specs and whether it has link switches. One high quality power supply can allow all your 500 series modules to perform optimally and sound their best. We believe there are five factors one should evaluate when shopping for a rack:

1. Audio quality - Does it degrade the audio signal in terms of depth, width, detail, and noise compared to other racks? Does it sound harsh and 2D, or detailed and 3D?
2. Elecrical specifications: Noise, Current Supply, Regulation - Is ripple properly smoothed and filtered? Are mains hum and/or switch mode noise properly filtered? Is there enough current on tap for each module to reproduce transients with punch and authority? Are there individual regulators on each slot? This will isolate the power between channels, which can keep a faulty or noisy module from 'polluting' the ecosystem. All these performance specs will affect audio qualtiy. Poor performance power supplies end up sounding bad.
3. Input / Output connections - Are there the appropriate connectors to interface with your studio? Will you be required to buy new cables?
4. Mechanical build quality - Is it made of thick gauge steel which will actually shield against EMI (not aluminum)? Is it thermally vented adequately? Are the rack ears substantial enough to withstand the weight of heavy modules?
5. Routing features like feed and link switches - These are nice things to have, but if the rack misses the mark in the othe four categories then these don't matter much.

500 Series Racks Specifications. Small Bi Polar, 6 Space Rack +/- 16V 1.6 Amp. Large Bi Polar, 11 Space Rack +/- 16V 2.1Amp. Power Requirements 115/230 VAC, 36W. Weight (Empty) 8 LBS / 3.63 KG. Dimensions in Inches 9.25W x 5.25L x 10D 19W x 5.25L x 10D. These 500-Series racks come in various shapes and sizes, allowing you to pick and choose the rack best situated for your studio. If you have any questions regarding these 500-Series racks or any of the 500-Series modules, please don't hesitate to contact the experienced engineers and sales associates at Sound Pure.

While you may like how Preamp X sounds in Rack X, we might prefer Preamp X in Rack Y. Neither of us are wrong, but the fact of the matter is that all racks sound different so it's worth getting them in one's studio to compare. While we cannot officially endorse any rack/brand in particular, we are happy to recommend the following fully assembled products, which we feel have solid build quality, low noise, plenty of current per module, and good value:

Sweet Ten Rack by Purple Audio (newest revision released summer 2017 has upgraded PSU that addressed earlier issues)

OST Racks by Heritage Audio (note that 48V does not appear to be further filtered or regulated on the PCB itself)

If you don't see a brand listed here that you might own or be considering, then you may assume it's not presently recommended due to lack of testing or poor performance. We are continually re-evaluating new racks on the market and will try to keep this list up to date. If you are into building your own gear then you may want check out the CAPI Gear 511-VPR Rack kits, which can be built with either an external linear or switch-mode supply.

Working out at the gym can get frustrating.

Nothing throws a workout off more than having to pace the gym like a caged tiger waiting for the next piece of equipment to open up.

This becomes even more annoying when all you want to do is a set of squats and some guy is hogging the power rack just so he can do some barbell curls (don’t be that guy!).

That’s why I always suggest ditching that gym membership and investing in your very own power rack (or power cage – both will be used interchangeably in this article).

But, don’t worry – you don’t have to break the bank in order to get one. You can buy an excellent power rack for under $500 (that’s less than most yearly gym memberships).

This guide will give you all the information you need to find the best power rack under $500 for your home gym.

• Titan T-2 Series Power Rack (Best Overall)
• TDS Power Rack (Strongest Rack)
• 1600 Ultra Strength Power Rack (Least Expensive)
• Fitness Gear Pro Half Rack (Local Pickup)

The Best Power Racks Under $500

Titan T-2 Series Power Rack

Lets start by reviewing the Titan T-2 Series power rack.

Capable of holding up to 850 pounds, the Titan Power Rack is on of the strongest power racks on our list and it makes a strong case for being the best power rack under $500.

This makes it great for beginner, intermediate, and expert lifters who can’t yet lift huge amounts of weight.

Measuring in at 48 inches x 44 inches x 83 inches, it accommodates all lifts except for standing overhead presses.

They also have a short version that only stands 71.5 inches tall. This could be great for those with lower ceilings.

Made out of heavy-duty steel, this rack weighs in at only 107 pounds. Although it’s relatively light, this rack is still plenty sturdy due to its 12 gauge steel beams.

With 28 different racking positions spaced 2 inches apart, this rack allows for varied and nuance customization. This makes it great for lifters of all different heights.

Available for a very reasonable price, this power rack from Titan is a downright bargain.

PROS

• Possesses a pull-up bar
• Sturdy 12-gauge construction
• Equipped with 28 adjustment slots
• Easy to assemble

CONS

• Lighter than most power racks
• Paint tends to chip off
• J hooks could be a bit longer

TDS Power Rack / Squat Cage

The TDS Power Rack is incredibly strong, capable of holding up to 1,050 pounds at one time; the strongest rack on our list. This makes it great for heavy squats as well as chin-ups and pulls ups.

Measuring in at 48.5 inches x 48 inches x 82.5 inches, it’s tall enough to accommodate squats for lifters of all sizes. However, if you’re looking to use it for standing overhead presses, it probably will not suffice.

Weighing in at 138 pounds, this power rack is very sturdy for one in its price range. It’s built using 2” square 11 gauge steel uprights.

One of the great things about this rack is how adjustable it is. It features 31 J hook holes on each of its sides. Each hole is spaced 2 inches apart, allowing for accurate and precise customization based on your particular height.

Its adjustability also allows it to accommodate a variety of exercises, from squats, to bench press, to barbell rows, and more.

PROS

• Ridiculous weight capacity
• Equipped with a knurled chin-up bar
• Sturdy construction for its price range
• Accommodates squats for users of all sizes
• Clearly numbered holes on uprights

CONS

• J hooks could be longer
• Not tall enough for standing overhead presses for taller users
• Paint chips off easily

Best Fitness BFPR100 Power Rack

The next power rack on our list is the Best Fitness BFPR100 Power Rack.

This power rack is not as strong as the TDS, but it still offers excellent functionality. At its maximum, it can hold up to 600 pounds at one time. This will be enough for the majority of lifts. Its uprights are 2″ x 2″ inch, 14 gauge steel – a weaker steel than other racks on this list.

Measuring in at 45.5 inches x 46.5 inches x 82 inches, it’s plenty big enough for squats, bench press, barbell rows, and a variety of exercises. The only exercise it probably won’t accommodate is the standing overhead press.

Weighing in at 117 pounds, it’s reasonably sturdy and easy to move around.

Equipped with 23 different adjustment positions, this rack can be personalized to suit your specific height. Each adjustment position is spaced 3 inches apart, which probably isn’t ideal for most lifters.

For safety purposes, it comes equipped with two adjustable safety bars and two adjustable weight lift offs.

PROS

• Accommodates the majority of exercises
• Easy to move from place to place
• Sturdy construction
• Available for a budget price
• Assembly is fairly easy

CONS

• 600-pound weight capacity is relatively low
• Not as adjustable as some power racks
• Only 14 gauge steel
• Paint tends to chip off

Power Zone Power Cage

One of the most feature rich of the power racks on our list, the Power Zone Power Cage provides plenty of value.

Measuring in at 50.4 inches x 65.1 inches x 82.9 inches and weighing in at 135 pounds, it can accommodate every lift for users no taller than 6′ 4″ (it’s recommended max user height).

This rack comes with an angled pull up bar that is both adjustable and reversible, allowing for narrow and wide pull-up grips. The pull-up bars also have a knurled grip which will help prevent our grip from slipping during use.

Strength-wise, this rack is towards the top of our list. It can hold up to 1000 pounds total, making it ideal for even the most experienced of lifters.

For adjustability purposes, this rack is equipped with 18 separate adjustability slots. This lack of flexibility could be an annoyance for those that need a more granular bar adjustment for either the bench press, overhead press, or squat.

If you’re looking for a power rack that also enables you to do extensive lat work, this is rack for you.

PROS

• Very sturdy construction
• Equipped with an adjustable pull-up bar
• Relatively easy assembly
• Large weight capacity

CONS

• A limited number of adjustable slots
• This rack takes up a lot of space

1600 Ultra Strength Power Rack

The 1600 Ultra Strength Power Rack is a simple, but effective power rack that can hold up to 800 pounds at one time.

This makes it ideal for beginner and intermediate lifters who aren’t moving huge amounts of weight.

Measuring in at 50.4 inches x 46.3 inches x 83.7 inches, this rack accommodates just about every lift except for standing overhead presses. Constructed of 2” x 2” 14 gauge steel, definitely isn’t the strongest but it’s expected at such a low price point.

Weighing only 127.4 pounds, it comes with 2 rear stability bars that are added to provide a very sturdy frame that will hold up through years of use.

It’s equipped with 19 total adjustable slots, allowing you to adjust it for a variety of different lifts and heights, although not as flexible as some other racks we’ve reviewed.

If you’re looking for a solid power rack at a very reasonable price, you must consider this one by ProGear.

PROS

• Very inexpensive
• Easy to assemble
• Multi-position pull-up bar
• Solid weight capacity given the price tag

CONS

• No floor anchors
• 3-inch hole spacing

Fitness Gear Pro Half Rack

Our next budget rack, the Fitness Gear Pro Half Rack, can be picked up at your local Dick’s Sporting Goods store.

Take note, though, that this is a half-rack, not a full rack; it’s more compact but doesn’t allow for as much range of motion than a full rack would.

This power rack features 28 height adjustment options, as well as a 600 pound capacity– giving it a little less weight capacity than previous options we’ve mentioned here.

If you’re building a home gym in a small space, you may prefer a compact rack such as this one– it fits into small rooms and underneath lower ceilings with ease.

This rack comes equipped with horizontal bars, which you can use to easily store your plates.

Although it only features a 600-pound capacity, this rack will hold up well, remaining sturdy even at its weight maximum. It’s made with 14-gauge steel, which is actually weaker than the 12-gauge steel that most power racks are made of.

For those looking for a compact home gym option for a small room, this power rack has some features you may enjoy. It provides a decent value for what you pay, but at the same time, it is not as powerful or high-quality as some other full-sized racks on the market.

If you’re interested in more information, check out our full review of the Fitness Gear Pro Half Rack here.

PROS

• 28 levels of adjustability
• Multi-grip pull-up bar
• Six posts for plate storage

CONS

• 14-gauge steel
• Limited weight capacity

Everyday Essentials 1000 Pound Capacity Power Cage

This affordable rack from Everyday Essentials can be purchased from a Walmart near you.

This power rack boasts a 1000-pound weight limit, as well as rubber feet to prevent slipping during your workout.

Rather than a pull-up bar, you’ll find two pull-up grips on this power rack– this is neither good nor bad, and just depends on what you’re looking for.

This rack does not come equipped with a plate storage bar which may be deal-breaker for some. Although, it does come with dip bars – an accessory that you’d have to pay extra for most other racks.

PROS

• High weight capacity
• Pull up grips and dip bars included
• Ability to add several different accessories

CONS

• 14-gauge steel
• No plate storage

Fitness Reality 810XLT Super Max Power Cage

Rounding out our list of the top budget power racks is the Fitness Reality 810XLT Super Max Power Cage.

This rack offers 19 height adjustments and an 800-pound capacity, making it a happy medium between heavier and lighter power rack options.

Again, the 3 inches between adjustment holes may be an issue for some users who would prefer more granular bar and j-hook placement.

This rack weighs in at 133 pounds and comes with 2 rear stability bars, which you may find provides enough stability preventing you from needing to bolt it to the floor.

Overall, this is a sturdy, well-rounded rack, yet at the same time, the 3 inch hole spacing and lack of plate storage may not be ideal for some people.

PROS

• Relatively high weight capacity
• Multi-grip pull-up bar
• Easy assembly

CONS

• 14-gauge steel
• No plate storage
• 3 inch hole spacing

Our recommendation

When life gets hectic, going to the gym can be a chore. That’s why it’s great to be able to work out from a home gym.

You may think that working out at home is a financial impossibility, but the truth of the matter is that there’s plenty of budget-friendly workout equipment out there to make it possible.

And, as you’ve just seen, you can find a high-quality power rack for under $500.

Currently, the best power rack under $500 is the Titan T-2 Series Power Rack.

It’s both simple and effective in design while also boasting incredible strength.

Capable of holding up to 800 pounds at one time, it possesses a strength that far surpasses most other racks in its price range.

With 28 different adjustment positions it accommodates lifters of all different heights. And the option to purchase a short version is great for those with basement home gyms.

Whether you’re a beginner, an intermediate, or a top-tier lifter, the Titan T-2 will accommodate you for as long as you continue to lift.

What is a Power Rack (Power Cage)?

A power rack is a large piece of workout equipment designed to hold and catch heavy weights on a barbell. If you plan on lifting free weights safely by yourself, a power rack is a necessity.

Equipped with hooks to hold weights between separate lifts, a rack will get your weights in the correct position to ready you for your next lift.

These racks typically have adjustable hooks that can be moved up and down their frames. This allows you to position the barbell at a variety of different heights, accommodating different exercises such as squats, bent-over rows, and bench presses.

In the event that you drop the weights, power racks are equipped with safety bars that will catch the barbell. This helps prevent the barbell from falling hard onto your body, reducing the risk of serious injury.

If you’re not working out without a spotter, a power rack is what you need in order to lift safely, especially when working out from a home gym.

Benefits of a Having Your Own Power Rack

The best way to avoid fighting for equipment at the gym is to avoid the gym entirely.

Of course, you still need a way to get your workout in. So what can you do instead of going to the gym? Buying your very own power rack might be the answer.

When you purchase your very own power rack, you’ll be able to:

• Work out from the comfort of your own home gym.
• Avoid lousy music blasted over speakers.
• Skip waiting in line for equipment.
• Lift at your own comfort and convenience at ANY time of day.
• Change and shower away from smelly locker rooms.

While you could just buy a simple weight lifting bench, it won’t provide the same safety precautions provided by a power rack.

This will leave you susceptible to serious injuries that could easily be avoided by using a power rack.

What to Consider When Choosing a Power Rack

There are a number of different factors you must consider when deciding on the best power rack under $500. These factors will have a direct effect on the overall performance and functionality of each rack.

They include the rack’s maximum weight capacity, its overall size, its gauge of steel, its ability to adjust, the amount of safety it provides and any shipping issues.

Maximum Weight Capacity

Best 500 Series Rack

A power rack’s maximum weight capacity will directly affect the amount of weight you are capable of lifting at one time. In the case of an accident, you want to make sure that the rack is capable of catching your chosen weight.

Most power racks that you’ll find for under $500 are capable of holding around 500 pounds of weight at one time. This is strong enough for the majority of beginner and intermediate lifters.

But, even if you’re an expert lifter, there are sub-$500 power racks that will accommodate you. Some power racks under $500 can hold up to 1,000 pounds in weight.

Size of the piece of equipment

The size of a power cage is important for a couple of reasons.

2 Slot 500 Series Racks

For one, a power cage’s weight is indicative of its overall sturdiness and durability. The heavier a power rack is, the more likely that it’s going to hold up over time.

Typically, a power cage that’s over 100 pounds will be sturdy enough to accommodate heavier weights. However, there are power racks that weigh as much as 150 pounds. These are almost always going to possess sturdier and more durable constructions.

The other reason a power cage’s size is important is that it will affect which lifts you can do inside of it.

Most racks will allow for squats, bent-over rows, and bench presses with little to no problem.

But if you want to do standing overhead presses, you’re going to have to pay special attention to the cage’s height.

Always remember to keep in mind the amount of space your home gym will allow for a power cage. This will probably be one of the most important considerations before making a purchase.

Frame Gauge (Gauge Steel)

Another important consideration is the gauge of the steel used in the construction of the power rack.

You’re going to be loading this piece of equipment with a lot of weight so you’ll want to be confident the power cage can support the load without breaking or (more importantly) jeopardizing your safety.

The gauge of steel represents the thickness of the steel used in the construction of the power rack. In short, the lower the gauge number, the thicker the steel.

Of course, the thicker steel will mean heavier construction materials, which may make assembly more of a pain in the neck. Although, the increased stability and safety should make it worth the extra assembly time.

Keep in mind that pricing will often scale with the gauge of steel. This would explain why two very similarly spec’d power racks have such a difference in cost.

Overall Adjustability

One of the things that makes a power rack worthwhile is its ability to adjust starting weight heights.

Each power cage is equipped with slots that allow you to adjust the heights of both the weight hooks and the safety bars. Different racks will sport different numbers of slots, accommodating different levels of height customization.

Some racks will have 2 inches of space between each slot while others will have 3 or 4 inches between each slot. Most racks have somewhere between 20 and 30 adjustment slots.

It’s necessary for you to think about your needs and desires before making a final decision on a rack.

Height customization is VERY important. Especially if you are planning to squat a lot.

There’s nothing I hate more than setting up too high or too low under a bar when positioning for a squat.

Safety it provides

The entire point of having a power rack is to keep you safe while lifting weights.

2 Slot 500 Series Rack Brackets

Obviously safety capabilities are going to be a major factor to consider when choosing a power rack. The safety mechanisms that make a power rack safe are the safety bars.

These are bars attached on the sides of the rack which will catch the barbell in the event of a fall.

Diy 500 Series Rack

The best safety bars are ones that can be adjusted. You’re going to want the safety bars to be lower when you’re doing a squat than when you are doing a bench press.

The only way this can happen is if the bars are adjustable. Keep this in mind when making your buying decision.

Shipping cost & issues

Shipping power racks are often expensive due to their large size and weight.

You’ll want to try you’re best to pay as little as possible for shipping. Be on the lookout for free shipping offers.

Also, pay attention to customer reviews to see if any complications happened when they were shipped their power rack. Companies with a history of shipping errors should be avoided at all costs.