Own a TW-Acustic Raven One?

i would think most listeners have to take a leap of faith with tw tables since there is no local dealer unless you live in ny or know a tw owner nearby. i can assure you though that if you want a robust, dense, visceral presentation with powerful bass then this is the right table for you. did you check out the stereomojo and tone audio reviews? i think there is a forthcoming tas review as well. put your order in early,...there's quite a waiting list.

Stickman451,

I have listened to the VPI's in a variety of systems and had the opportunity to directly compare against multiple turntables. My only opportunity to compare the Raven and VPI was at RMAF. Obviously not the ideal way to compare, but the best I could manage.

The VPI is a great table. Both the Raven and VPI provide an upgrade path as funds permit. If you are looking to make this level of financial commitment, don't rely on anyone else's ears, try to find a way to listen to both.

Good luck,

Sirspeedy makes the most sense of anyone here. Comparing these tables is difficult to do objectively when you've already bought into one camp or the other. In the end, I'm sure they're both great and obviously it comes down to a matter of taste. Stickman, I agree with Jazdoc. You owe it to yourself to hear them both for yourself. I'd like to as well. I love my SSM ref but the Raven One looks like a great choice too.

I agree; I am going to the RMAF in October. Maybe Jeffrey will have a VPI on-hand for direct comparision.

I have had both a Scout and an Aries 3; my current feeling is that they are both very good tables, but I think the Aries is a little too 'analytical' for my taste overall. That doesn't make it a bad table!

Bottom line is that Jeffrey at HighWater Sound has told me that he would give me a loaner and if I didn't like it, I could get a complete refund! Now that is real customer service!

Naturally owners will favor their purchases...they not only voted with words, but with their checkbooks.