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VPI Classic hum

Got mine a few weeks ago. Installed it with a high-output Benz Ace H cartridge. Loved the sound but there was a hum when I turned the preamp volume past the 10 o'clock position. Later changed to a Clearaudio Concerto, the hum was quieter, but wouldn't go away no matter what I tried.

Then I read the manual closely, and it said something about using shielded interconnects. So I tried a pair of Rega Couple wires, which are made from Klotz cable, and are shielded.

And you know what, the hum just vanished! Now I'm at peace ...

Just to share with those have hum issues with the Classic. Do share your solutions.
bassraptor
macdadtexas
1,794 posts
 
You need a well shielded cartridge with the Classic to stop the hum.

I had an expert suggest Soundsmith, and it's a dude who should know.
krell1's avatar
krell1
250 posts
 
No hum from the Dynavector 17D3 Karat Mk II on my Classic. It's grounded and am using a Krell reference phono amp.
bassraptor OP
64 posts
 
Here's an update, and a new issue.

Two cartridges I've used of late - Benz Gullwing and Dynavector 17D3 - reveal another source of hum.

This time, the hum begins when the stylus touches the playing surface, during the lead-in to the tracks, and I can also hear it a bit during quiet passages.

Someone told me it's because VPI motors are noisy.

VPI tells me it's because my low-output cartridge requires a lot of amplification, and is picking up some 50Hz hum from other piece of equipment in my system.

Anyone have any ideas?

I'm close to moving on to another t/t if I can't resolve this issue.

Oh, but the Classic/17D3 combi is awesome. Just that pesky hum bothers me ...
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