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Analog Selection Dilemma: Aries V. Scout

I'm looking to upgrade my analog rig (Pro-Ject Wood Classic with Dynavector 20XH cartridge and McCormak Phono Microdrive. Due to funding restrictions, I'm wondering what will get me the best sound. Looking for opinions. My choices are:

Choice 1. Aries 2 with JMW 9 arm and using my existing Dynavector as it is only two months old.

Choice 2. VPI Aries Scout with JMW 9 arm and Lyra Helikon SL or Sumiko Celebration.

I'm also going with a Pass Labs Xono, as I'm getting a great deal on a new unit.

My question is which of the above will produce the best sound? Am I better off with the better TT (Aries 2) and lower end cartridge, or is the Scout that good of a table that paring it with the Lyra Helikon will be a better match?

Both setups are about the same cost, give or take a couple of hundred.

Thanks, Al
nighteyes0
sdcampbell
2,136 posts
 
This one is a tough call, but I think you would be better advised to go with the best TT (the Aries), and then upgrade your cartridge at some later date. The Scout is a very good, entry-level high end TT, but the Aries offers better performance. Generally speaking, your turntable / tonearm combo needs to be top-notch to justify using one of the best cartridges.
nrchy's avatar
nrchy
2,124 posts
 
I would also suggest the better table. It will make a difference.

The cartridges though are another issue. You can get a better cartridge for less money by going with the Shelter 901, or possibly even the 501. Lyra makes a good product, but they get A LOT of money for it. Shelter is arguably as good for less. The 901 is the better of the two models, and many people think the 501 is nearly as good as the Helikon.

Check them out if you can.
bruckner9
2 posts
 
i too suggest getting the "better" table, but in my case, i'd consider the SCOUT to be the BETTER table. it has energy, drive, pace, timing, and excitement, whereas the aries puts forth a "prettier" presentation at the expense of all of the afforementioned items.

to me, no contest. the Aries puts me to sleep, whereas the Scout MOVES me.

btw, why are these the only two choices you are selecting from?
bombaywalla's avatar
bombaywalla
1,958 posts
 
Nighteyes0,

Like "Bruckner9", I ask "only 2 tables you are considering?"

IMHO, get rid of VPI altogether! They are very average TTs! I'm going to duck now as the lynch-mob comes by!!

If you want a much better TT go w/ the Nottingham Spacedeck with Spacearm. Retain that DV20X-H. Save up for a better cart. (the DV20X-H is very good, mind you). The Nottingham is much more 'alive' & dynamic. It represents the music far better than any VPI 'table can.
Another very worthy recommendation is the Teres Audio 150 model. The Teres will allow you to upgrade as funds become available.
A 3rd excellent recommendation is Bluenote(Italian) 'tables such as the Bellavista Signature/Borghese tonearm.
Of course, JMHO. FWIW. YMMV.
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