VPI JMW 12.5 counterweight upgrade

In response to Stringreen: As I mentioned in my original thread, I used the drop-style VPI counter weight. However, the XTCW has a lower center of gravity, provides greater stability, and better sonic performance to the VPI counter weight.

Redglobe...have you really tried using this XTC arm and compared it you the VPI?? I am using the 10.5i with a Benz Ebony LPS, and find the performance stunning. Never a tracking problem...big, wide and deep soundstage, etc.

I looked it up on ebay. It certainly looks like it would be more stable. Although they are not very apealling visually. I did not see the one for a VPI arm but got the idea of what they look like.

The XTCW looks homemade when compared to the stainless steel high precision drop down counter weight by VPI.

Stringreen,

Yes, I have really tried the XTCW counter weight on the VPI 12.5 arm. I too was very pleased with the 12.5, as it was. However, I experienced the benefits of the XTCW on a Hadcock and figured it should do the same on the 12.5. It did just that.

The 12.5 is a great sounding tonearm. However, the XTCW brought up the performance. Like so much of high end equipment, it is exceptional. Periodically, you find something that augments a great product. This is what I discovered.

Sarcher30: On Ebay, search under XTCW. Click on one of the products, then click on the sellers other items. It should appear on the second page XTCW VPI JMW12.5 tonearm UPGRADE COUNTERWEIGHT - NON EU & EXPORT PRICE.

I agree, I didn't think it was aesthetically appealing. However, once in place and I experienced the sonic improvement I appreciated the engineering simplicity.