StudioRTA Creation Station

I purchased this studio desk as the core for a home studio project. I previous used a unit from a Swedish furniture shop (you know the one), but it was clear that all my synth racks were not protected and my equipment was all over the place. When this desk arrived it was very well packed and I am very glad to say came with instructions that were so easy to follow. Despite being MDF, the build quality is so high that you would think it is real wood. The design is clever providing many features that make storing equipment easy and safe. After construction which took about 30 minutes, I started putting equipment on it. The top shelf is big enough for 2 x 22inch wide screens and a pair of KRK rokit 5 monitors. The rack is solid and can take 8 1u racks easily. It also leaves a gap to either store books\discs or place a synth workstation. The space in front of the rack area is big enough for a large synth (Roland Fantom G6 or 7) but the 88 key version would struggle as the height of the synth would obstruct the lower racks. The bottom shelf is a life saver, allowing mass storage of everything. The unit comes on rubber wheels which can be locked in place (front ones). Another point is that there is a cable shelf at the back which has drilled holes in. This means you can gather cables together and zip tie them to it and make the back of the desk very tidy. So in summary:

Pros: Well made, lots of space, enough for 8x1U racks, looks very professional, can be moved around and locked in place, great cable tidy a back.

Cons: Wheels are rubber and split in half and had to be replaced (probably due to weight on desk). Rack area is fiddly to put racks in as you have to screw them in (no quick clips). 8 racks is pretty limited and you quickly fill them up.

I bought this workstation back in 2009, and it served me well right up until late last year when I replaced it.

Pros: The cost is excellent, the desk is well featured and the wheels are an amazing addition sadly lacking on many far more expensive desks. There is plenty of room for either a MIDI keyboard or a mixing console & keyboard and mouse. Rack spaces are a cool plus, and the cable tray on the back is a godsend.

Cons: While very acceptable for the price, build quality is average. The desk wobbles after a week or so without tightening. I moved five or six times while I had it and it eventually showed - in particular the lining around the edges of both platforms broke off exposing the chipboard underneath. Some of the metal parts ring out at certain frequencies.

Verdict: I'd call this a great desk for somebody just starting out or with simple requirements. It's not very pretty and has its share of problems but the features are good, the value for money is insane and I can't imagine there to be too many competitive alternatives at this price.