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SDS or phono stage

I have a VPI Scoutmaster with Soundsmith Zephyr Mk II cartridge, jmw memorial arm, a stainless steel vpi record clamp, playing through a Musial Fidelity KW500 integrated amp with on board phono stage. Sounds quite good, but my question is this: would I be better off at this point adding an SDS or an outboard phono stage? Or both? In what order? Thanks!
arsh
sarcher30
596 posts
 
The Herron is one I would like to hear. From all reports it should be a big improvement on your in built MF phono stage.
bpoletti
1,553 posts
 
Herron phono stage plus a variac for the Scoutmaster. The Herron will take care of the cartridge (few , if any, equal or better), the variac will reduce noise from the table.

Variac operation is easy. Dial up 120v to get the table running and to brush the record surface, then reduce the voltage to 60v to 70v before playing the record.
dhcod
710 posts
 
I have the VTPH-1MC and I can't imagine a better phono stage and I've spent thousands in the past.... and everyone says VTPH2 is better. You'll love it and Keith is a fantastic person and very helpful. If it's used, have him go through it if you decide to buy. It's incredibly reasonable and you end up with basically a refurbished unit.
arsh OP
367 posts
 
Thanks a lot. I am getting a new VTPH-2 directly from Keith. I am excited to hear it!
amudhen's avatar
amudhen
17 posts
 
Get a decent strobe disc from KAB and see how your current setup looks via 33 & 45 rpm, using the srobe disc on top of a record and with your record clamp. Then purchase a used SDS for around $800 or so. They both made a noticeablle difference on my vpi aires. For a phono amp , look at the new Phenomena II battery powered.
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