2. analog
  3. 137277-112139

LOOKING TO MAKE A TURNTABLE CHANGE, HOPEFULLY AN IMPROVEMENT

 I started with a VPI Scout, and then upgraded to a VPI Scoutmaster. I find the sound of my CD collection to be superior. Vinyl advocates insist that I am missing the boat and claim vinyl delivers the sonic goods.
 I was advised that the acrylic platter that came with my Scoutmaster was the reason the sound was not up to par.
 The cost to upgrade the Scoutmasster with  a steel platter and bearing is $1000.00.  Not looking
 to spend any more money with VPI. Not knocking their products, just have spent much money with them with
 less than expected results. Assuming I wish to listen to my 180-200 gram vinyl recordings I am looking for
 alternatives. I wish to stay loyal to my audio dealer who is always there to help me. He sells Project, VPI and
 Thorens. I would sell my Scoutmaster which should net me about $1000.00, and I would put $1500.00 of my own
money toward a new turntable.  Any thoughts?  Thank you in advance.  Note: I am sure VPI makes a wonderful
product, but I have not perfsonally had a great audio experience. 
128x128kjl1065
60 responses Add your response
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
Cartridge, phono stage (and settings) and arm set up (azimuth, VTA, VTF, cantilever alignment, overhang) all matter greatly with VPI table and arms. I have an Aries 2 with JMW 10.5 arm and run a Lyra Delos into a Manley Steelhead. I was using the VPI alignment gauge until I got a Mint Protractor, which improved separation and clarity considerably.

My hunch is that you can squeeze quite a bit more performance from your VPI rig with regard to some of these variables. Please let us know what cartridge(s) and phono pre you are using along with the settings and alignment protractor used. Maybe we can help there.

My second table is a Technics SL1200GR and I use it for MM and MI carts. I enjoy it as much as the VPI, even more in some cases for dynamic rock albums from the 70s and 80s with vintage Shure, Stanton and Pickering carts from that era.
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,697 posts
 
I doubt that those other brands that your dealer sells would be an upgrade to your VPI.
You might want to checkout the new Technics SL-1200GR. It is a set it and forget it table and is under your budget.
This dealer has a return policy in case you don’t like it!
Sometimes you just can't stick with a dealer if he does not have another brand that you might want!
http://hifiheaven.net/shop/Technics/Technics-SL-1200GR-Grand-Class-Direct-Drive-Turntable-System?gcl...
tooblue
1,927 posts
 
I don't think the acrylic platter of the Scoutmaster is the issue, I actually prefer it over the aluminum platters and that table is probably VPIs best bang for the buck table that they have offered, with that said it sounds like you just fall into the digital camp and should just embrace that. I am of the other mind and use my digital as background and non critical listening but for those late night listening sessions only analog will satisfy me no matter what I spend on my digital front end. It would be interesting to know the rest of your system.
kjl1065's avatar
kjl1065 OP
27 posts
 
Phono stage is Thor Audio tubed.
stevermanjohnson
18 posts
 
Something from Rega, Music Hall, ClearAudio or Avid would be worth checking out. I heard about a new Avid turntable... http://www.avidhifi.com/turntable_ingenium.htm
pops
2,275 posts
 
What is your phono stage?  That is as important as your investment in a table/arm/cartridge.

When I went to entry Basis 10 years ago it was a night and day improvement over my digital.  It is not inexpensive putting a good analog front end together but do it right and you will be rewarded.

pingvin
46 posts
 
No doubt lots of people will have lots of firmly-held opinions... but maybe we should start with what you found deficient, and what you’re looking for. Also, have you listened to other decks — have you heard a TT-based system that really does it for you, for us to have as a reference (no matter how expensive)?
arturos73
38 posts
 
I had a 1.1 Scout for 3 years. It was a great entry level turntable for me, but I felt the need to move on. After a lot of research, I settled on George Merrill's Super12 Polytable with the 12-inch Jelco and speed control device. I am VERY pleased with my choice. George is wonderful to deal with and always available for recommendations and advice. I recommend giving him a call. The stock Poly is about $1800. The Super is $3000 (with oil bath motor, speed control and longer Jelco arm). There is one for sale on Audiogon with a 10 inch arm and the speed control box for $1895. A great deal.
brf
1,715 posts
 
Cartridge, set up, phono stage settings.......  There are a lot of factors that affect turntable performance. 
hifiman5's avatar
hifiman5
1,832 posts
 
You are using a mat on the acrylic platter?  What phono stage are you using with the VPI?
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