Gator GR-RETRORACK-2BK - 2U Rack Case Vintage Amplifier Style Black
The Gator GR-RETRORACK-2BK is a 2U rack case for 19" gear that combines vintage amp aesthetics with professional studio and live performance features. Designed as a small guitar combo in rack format, it offers 2U of space for amp modelers, effects, preamps, interfaces, and other audio processors, while maintaining a sleek and sophisticated stage presence. It's an ideal solution for musicians, producers, and engineers who want to protect their equipment while visually integrating it with classic amplifiers and backline.
The enclosure is constructed from robust solid wood with a classic amplifier-style black tolex finish. Inside, it offers a usable depth of approximately 31.8 cm (12.5") to accommodate most standard-sized rack-mount equipment. It is a 19" wide, 2U rack, perfectly compatible with any device designed for a standard rack format.
The front panel is protected by a removable dust cover with a "salt & pepper" style fabric mesh, secured with a hook-and-loop fastener. The back panel is also removable for easy access to the cabling. A kickstand at the base allows the rack to be tilted towards the user, mimicking the position of a tilted guitar combo and improving visibility and control access. Rubber feet provide stability and allow the rack to be placed on amplifiers, speakers, studio tables, or desks without damage.
For transport, the GR-RETRORACK-2BK includes spring-loaded side handles and a classic-style leather top handle, making it easy to lift and load even when the rack is fully loaded. With approximate external dimensions of 53.98 x 35.56 x 17.78 cm (L x D x H) and a weight of approximately 6.3 kg, this rack case is compact, robust, and easy to handle—perfect for guitar or studio rigs that need to be moved frequently.
Main features
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2U Rack Case for 19" Equipment": 2 rack unit space for amp modelers, effects, and studio equipment.
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Black vintage amplifier style design: solid wood rack with black tolex finish that emulates the aesthetics of a classic combo.
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Solid wood construction: robust frame that provides great stability and mechanical protection to the mounted equipment.
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Usable depth of approx. 31.8 cm: about 12.5" deep, suitable for most standard format rack-mount equipment.
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Approximate interior dimensions: 48.26 x 31.75 x 8.89 cm (width x usable depth x height).
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Approximate external dimensions: 53.98 x 35.56 x 17.78 cm (length x depth x height).
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Removable front and rear covers: convenient access to the control panel and rear wiring, facilitating installation and ventilation.
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Integrated tilt support (kickstand): folding leg at the base that allows the rack to be tilted towards the user for better viewing and handling.
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Removable dust cover: textile cover with "salt & pepper" type mesh secured by hook and loop fastener to protect equipment when not in use.
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Rubber feet: provide stability and protect the surfaces on which the rack rests.
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Quality carrying handles: spring-loaded side handles and a leather top handle for comfortable and safe transport.
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Approximate weight: 6.3 kg.
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Color: black.
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Rack screws included: supplied with screws for mounting the units in the rack.
Product benefits
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Professional image consistent with the backline: its vintage amp-style design in black integrates perfectly with guitar heads, combos and screens on stage or in the studio.
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Effective protection of the equipment: the solid wood structure and removable covers protect the front and back of the devices from bumps, dust and scratches during transport and daily use.
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Convenient access to controls: the kickstand allows you to tilt the front of the rack, improving the visibility of screens and controls and facilitating adjustments live or in the studio.
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Organization of the work environment: unify modelers, previewers, effects and other equipment in a single piece of furniture, reducing the clutter of loose equipment on tables or the floor.
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Configuration versatility: The usable depth of approximately 31.8 cm accommodates most standard rack equipment, making it easy to reconfigure the rig as the equipment evolves.
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Convenient transport: The spring-loaded side handles and leather top handle make the rack easy to lift and move, even when fully loaded.
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Compact size: 2U height offers enough space for an essential guitar, bass or studio rig, without taking up too much physical or visual space.
Use cases
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Guitar rigs based on modelers: mounting a modeler in rack format and, optionally, a processor or lightweight stage, maintaining a classic amplifier aesthetic.
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Compact bass setups: bass-specific preamps, compressors, and processors in a robust cabinet that looks like a small combo amp on stage.
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Home studio and recording studios: integration of interfaces, preamps, processors and controllers in a rack that adds visual character to the studio.
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Lightweight live sound systems: for small productions, solo musicians or duos who require an audio effects and processing system that is easy to transport and quick to set up.
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Use on amplifiers or screens: thanks to the rubber feet and amp-type design, it can be placed directly on a head or screen, keeping the setup compact and tidy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Gator GR-RETRORACK-2BK compatible with all 19" racks?
It is compatible with any standard 19" device with a height of 2U or less, provided it meets the recommended depth (approx. 31.8 cm). It is recommended to measure the device's depth, including rear connectors, before installation.
What is the actual usable depth of the rack?
The approximate usable depth from the front rails to the rear panel is 12.38 inches, or about 31.5 cm. This measurement is intended to accommodate most standard rack equipment used for guitar, bass, and studio use.
Can it be tilted like a guitar combo?
Yes. The case incorporates a kickstand-type support at the base, which allows the rack to be tilted towards the user, offering a comfortable posture for viewing and manipulating the controls, very similar to that of an angled combo.
Does it include a dust cover and screws?
The GR-RETRORACK-2BK model includes a removable dust cover with a textile mesh, as well as rack screws for attaching equipment to the interior rails.
Is it suitable for intensive tours?
It offers good protection thanks to its wooden construction and robust design, making it suitable for frequent live use. However, since it's more of a "furniture" style rack than a traditional ATA flight case, on very demanding tours it may be advisable to supplement it with additional covers or transport systems if it's going to be subjected to very rough handling.
Compatibility and usage recommendations
For optimal compatibility, it is recommended to measure the equipment to be installed (standard 19" width, total height, and depth including connectors) and verify that it does not exceed the approximate usable depth of 31.8 cm. It is advisable to plan the layout of the devices, placing the heaviest components at the bottom of the 2U case and leaving space for rear ventilation if using equipment that generates heat (preamps, power amplifiers, etc.).
The removable dust cover is especially useful in studios and on stages where equipment may be permanently mounted but not used for extended periods. Using well-organized cables and, if possible, back panels or cable guides will facilitate quick rack assembly and disassembly and extend the lifespan of connectors and equipment.
Project description
Gator GR-RETRORACK-2BK 2U rack case for 19" equipment. Solid wood construction with a black tolex finish. Interior dimensions are approximately 31.8 cm deep (12 in), with interior dimensions of 48.26 x 31.75 x 8.89 cm (width x depth x height) and exterior dimensions of approximately 53.98 x 35.56 x 17.78 cm (length x depth x height). Includes removable front and rear panels, a kickstand, rubber feet, spring-loaded side handles, a leather top handle, a removable "salt & pepper" mesh dust cover, and rack screws. Approximate weight: 6.3 kg. Color: Black.
