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Anyone NOT like the sound of VPI?

I'm wondering if I'm just not a VPI guy. Bought a Scoutmaster with signature JMW arm and a Shelter 501 MKII cartridge. This was after buying a Rega P3-24 with an Elys II cartridge. Thought the Rega was very dark sounding (at least with that cartridge).

The VPI sounded unnatural to me (no midbass whatsoever). Thought it was a bad cartridge, but recently heard a Scout (with signature arm) equipped with a Dynavector cartridge. This was on a system at a retailer where I was auditioning speakers and I didn't think it sounded much different from what I have at home.

While I hate overdone midbass, I certainly miss it if it's absent. I'm wondering if I'm just not a VPI guy and should try something else - maybe a Rega (P5?) with a different cartridge...

madfloyd
sns
3,244 posts
 
I should also mention I had the previous iteration of the Pro-ject Tube Box with a Rega P25. I thought the bass was somewhat lightweight with that setup. Knowing what I know now, perhaps it wasn't the Rega, rather the Tube Box that was holding back the bass. Just something to think about.
madfloyd OP
411 posts
 
Well I used the Project when I had the Rega P3-24 and there was plenty of bass. I also tried the VPI with an Aesthetix Rhea and there wasn't much bass, but the Rhea wasn't functioning properly so I didn't want to mention it before.

Thanks for the tip about VPI selling the Dynavector. I'll call them on Tuesday.
sbrown
148 posts
 
Yes, can't stand'em
learsfool
1,215 posts
 
Johnnyb53, I would say that the problems you heard in the set-up you described are almost certainly due to either the amp or speakers, not the table and cartridge. I love the Rega tables, but I was very underwhelmed by their amps and speakers.

Madfloyd, I would certainly vouch for the P5/Exact 2 combo, especially if you also get the separate power supply. I am very happy with that set up.
hukkfinn
28 posts
 
Hi,
You are reporting results that are exactly backwards.

I trust your ears and what you are reporting.

But to be clear: Scoutmasters have LOADS more bass and midbass than Regas do. Regas NEVER sound dark.

You should:

1. Not buy anything more.

2. Make sure you are making no judgements at all until your cartridge has at least 20 hours on it.

3. IMPORTANT: Make sure your phono pre is set on MC, loaded at 20 ohms. If you don't like the sound, try 100 ohms. Page 2 explains how:
http://www.sumikoaudio.net/project/manuals/manual_tubeboxse.pdf

4. Print out a cartridge alignment protractor and see if yours is aligned somewhere near correctly. Here: http://mkjnovak.homestead.com/files/align.PDF

5. Put something on the headshell to weight it down. You can only do this if you have a VTF measuring device. Then re-adjust tracking force to 1.8g.

The issue of what the VPI rests on will make a difference, but not a major one. The VPI will slam you over the head with powerful bass no matter what it's on.

Let us know when you confirm no. 3 above. Thanks and good luck-
Hukk
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