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VPI Speed Problem

I have a VPI Super Scoutmaster with SDS. Fabulous sound, had it for about a year. I moved to a new place about 5 months ago and have had it set up and working well for about 3 months in the new location.

Recently, I thought the first song on some album sides sounded slow, but as the album played a minute or two, all sounded right again. Now, everything sounds slow all the time, both 33's and 45's. I tried bypassing the SDS, though there is no speed setting on the motor assembly, so I don't know if that should sound right, but it sounds very slow and muddy as well.

Any thoughts on what might be wrong or how to troubleshoot? Any insight would be appreciated.
kthomas
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
4,992 posts
 
I would try a new belt and re-lubing the bearing/spindle. Make sure to clean off the outside of the platter where the belt goes around and clean off the pulley.
oregon
822 posts
 
Belt drive cheapo is the problem. Throw it on the 'gon with all the other VPIs and get a Lenco.
johnbrown
195 posts
 
Agree-buy that cheaply-built, worst-of-the-idlers Lenco-why, you could even have 'Oregon' build a plinth for it! Coincidentally, I'm sure.

Then, when sleep seems impossible, start reading one of Jean Nantais' epic-length, chest-thumping and self-congratulatory posts. You'll be sleeping like a baby in moments. Mmmmm.
tfkaudio
591 posts
 
I would check the speed with a strobe. I live in Chicago and I need to adjust the speed using the SDS during the winter because the table runs slower.

Also, make sure the junction box isn't contacting the platter.

And, make sure the pully on the motor is fastened tight. Do you have the 300 rpm motor or the dual motor flywheel? Or the rim drive?

And, make sure the platter bearing is lubricated with white lithium grease.

Have I missed anything?

Cheers.
tfkaudio
591 posts
 
A clarification... it's the outer ring clamp that gets extremely close to the junction box, not the platter itself. During your move, if the junction box moved even a little, it might now be rubbing against the outer ring clamp. You just need to loosen it and move it a little bit back.

Cheers.
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