OK, so I know that stacking components on top of each other (particularly ones that generate a fair amount of heat) isn't a very good idea. Sometimes, though, you just have to do it.

So, I'm wondering if anyone knows of any good ways to separate them by an inch or two. I've used plastic bottle caps before, but that isn't exactly sturdy and definitely doesn't look so good.

What I'm really looking for is some sort of riser shelf designed (or repurposed) for this. What I've got in mind is a metal shelf with feet that curve back in toward the center so that, theoretically, a larger component (width or depth) could even sit on top of a smaller one). Anyone run across something like this?

Thanks.

Maybe a Flexi Rack (http://www.jetcom.org/~jsb/flexirack.php)?

I've actually recently found out that you can use those plastic letter trays (http://www.staples.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/StaplesProductDisplay?&langId=-1&storeId=10001&catalogId=10051&productId=19927&cmArea=SEARCH) (the rigid ones from Costco are good) upside down as a quick and easy spacer between hot components.

I've actually recently found out that you can use those plastic letter trays (http://www.staples.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/StaplesProductDisplay?&langId=-1&storeId=10001&catalogId=10051&productId=19927&cmArea=SEARCH) (the rigid ones from Costco are good) upside down as a quick and easy spacer between hot components.

That's a creative idea. Might give that a try.

I've used vibrapod support cones (http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=VBCONE) for this succesfully. They're $8 each - I'd recommend using 4, but you might get away with 3, if you feel lucky. Provides a nice 1" riser to give you a little airflow. I just put the ball side up & sit the device above on them - the balls are slick which is one reason I'd recommend using 4.

Another thought would be to use an amp stand as a shelf over the component, although amp stands usually aren't cheap & sizing things perfectly over a full size component beneath might be tricky.