VPI Scout w/ JMW-9 vs Aries w/ JMW-10

I'm not familiar with the Scout/Scoutmaster, however I have an Aries with JMW-10/van den Hul Frog, and I'm more than happy. This an original Aries with no upgrades. This table is dead silent. I did spend extra time to make sure it was leveled and set up right. The table sounds awesome.

Best,

Paul :-)

Paul, thanks...
I know the Frog is amazing, but its quite expensive, is it not? Around the $2000 range, right?
Hm..i will have to consider your comment...
Thanks

Frog pricing is all over the place. New from dealer advertising here is $2500. Two used, one with uncertain hours is sale pending at $850+/-. Another used Frog at $1500.

I recently purchased the Aries/JMW10/Frog used. I've been away from vinyl for over 20 years. LOL! What was I thinking!

I have no regrets over my purchase. ;-)

Best,

Paul :-)

What about the move from the Scoutmaster to the TNT 3.5 - what are the benefits there?

To me the Aries is just an overall superior product. The fit and finish on my Aries is just in another class compared to the Scout I owned. Socially, the difference to me is that the Scout was a bit hyper fast. I liked it but it was ultra dynamic. You may like that.

The clarity, detail, bass, and smoothness of the Aries is amazing. I think the advantages of the scout (speed) have to do with the 9" arm. The 10" arm is just more accurate to my ears. If you want the best of both worlds get a fast cart on the Aries (17d2, Clearaudio etc) and enjoy.

Bottom line, the Scout is a superb starter table. It make sit clear that analog is far superior to any digital source. The Aries (with the longer arm) makes the comparison to digital laughable and the comparison to the Scout makes it look like a starter table.

Good luck
Vik