Entreq Protectus

Most equipment platforms do one thing — they sit under a component and deal with vibration. The Protectus does something different. It addresses both mechanical micro-vibrations and the high-frequency electromagnetic fields that accumulate inside audio components, treating them as two sides of the same problem.

The platform is constructed from layers of cross-laminated timber, with cavities cut in a strategic pattern and filled with mixed metal spheres of various materials and sizes. Those spheres convert vibration energy into heat — a purely mechanical process. But because all the metals are connected, galvanic currents are also generated, and those currents form a magnetic field that acts on the electromagnetic fields within the component sitting above. The result is a platform that works simultaneously at a mechanical and an electrical level.

The Eartha Connection

Protectus comes supplied with a dedicated ground cable — an Eartha cable — fitted with a hook at one end to connect to the Protectus itself, and a special connector at the other to attach to the chassis of the component above. When that connection is made, both mechanical micro-vibrations and high-frequency currents drain away into the Protectus, which becomes an attractive point for high-frequency debris. Connecting the component's chassis to electrical ground creates a constant flow through the Protectus, keeping that draining process active rather than passive.

This is a meaningful distinction from a conventional footer or platform. Rather than simply isolating or absorbing, Protectus actively draws unwanted energy away from the component.

Choosing the Right Level and Size

Protectus is available in three levels and three sizes, and the combination you need depends on the component you intend to place on it.

The level relates to the weight of the component. Level 1 carries up to 100kg, Level 2 up to 150kg, and Level 3 up to 250kg. Heavier components will generally benefit from a higher level. Entreq recommend consulting your local distributor — which is us — to determine the right combination for your specific system.

Technical Specifications

Who Is It For?

Protectus is for the listener who has already done the obvious things — good cables, a decent rack, proper power — and wants to address what remains. If you're running serious electronics and have noticed that the last few percentage points of performance are stubbornly out of reach, a grounding and vibration platform of this kind is worth investigating. It pairs naturally with other Entreq products: if you're already using an Entreq Olympus Hero or Entreq Pluton ground box, the Protectus extends the same grounding philosophy to the component's physical footprint. The MaxMix T2 is also worth considering alongside it.

It is not for everyone. If you haven't yet addressed your mains supply or interconnects, start there. Protectus is a refinement, not a foundation — and it works best in a system where the fundamentals are already sound.

Buying from Martins Hi-Fi

Martins Hi-Fi has been in Norwich since 1968. Elizabeth Gould runs the business today, and we stock only brands we have heard properly and stand behind.

We can demonstrate the Protectus at our Norwich showroom and advise on the right level and size for your specific components and system. When you get in touch, you'll be speaking with Dave, Chris and Tim — experienced specialists who can advise on this product and your whole system.

Contact us at info@martinshifi.co.uk, call 01603 627010, or WhatsApp on 07554 687137. You can read more about how we work on our Why Martins Hi-Fi page. We are at 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY.