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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
 
works fine with HO cartridge, it just must be well shielded. The hum you are getting is from the cartridge not being shielded well enough to block the hum from the motor which is integrated into the plinth.
bassraptor OP
64 posts
 
Tks, Macdadtexas, do you have any recommendations for such cartridges? I would have thought the ones I used would be well shielded? Is there anything I can do to the cartridges I have now to ensure they're well shielded?
macdadtexas
1,794 posts
 
I got the recommendation of the Soundsmith Cartridges from Michael Fremmer, and I LOVE mine. They make lower output models if that's a requirement, but most are higher output.
actusreus
733 posts
 
Running the Kimber Silver Streak from the junction box to the phono preamp. Nothing fancy and I'm not sure how shielded it is, but no "hum" to be bothered by. Of course you're going to hear more "hum" on quiet passages; it's nothing to do with shielding, but the nature of the medium. I have five gain settings on my preamp and the noise increases with the gain but so does the dynamic range. Once the music kicks in, it's a non-issue. If you want no noise at all during quiet passages or lead-in, switch to CDs.
mcdaddy
12 posts
 
I also have the Classic. This may not be quite related, but I get some distortion from my subwoofer when I use my turntable. The table is level and set up properly as far cartridge alignment, tracking force etc. I do not get this distortion from any other sources. Any thoguhts would be appreciated.
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