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VPI or Pro-ject

Hi
I'm looking at getting a new turntable and considering either a Pro-ject or VPI.
I had a Rega P3 and just sold it.

I'm looking at possibly the VPI Prime or Pro-ject Extension 10.
I use a Devialet 200 for the rest of the duties.

I'm no expert in turntables so I'm seeking advice. I'm open to other models in either of these two brands but those examples are about how much I want to spend.

Advice please, thanks, Bill
mr_bill
mr_bill OP
346 posts
 
I'm leaning strongly towards getting a Prime. 
My next challenge will be in getting a cartridge - I haven't a clue. 
bpoletti
1,538 posts
 
What's your budget for a cart?
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
I'm awaiting delivery of my Prime turntable to replace a Scout.
As for cartridges, Lyra and Dynavector are always popular choices for VPI tables, though many others work well also. Typically, you want to make sure the cartridge has a body weight greater than 7 grams, and a compliance higher than 10.
Currently I am using a Ortofon Cadenza Bronze on my Scout. I enjoy it, and plan to keep it on my Prime.

I haven't heard the Pro-ject tables, but I have heard a few Regas. How did you like the P3?
I'm guessing you did not care for it that much, or else you would be asking about a P8/9/10 in this conversation.

As for trying these tables, well good luck with that. Even if you are lucky enough to find a local dealer who carries both, odds are his room and ancillary gear will be different from your own. I've found that there is no substitute for listening in your own room with your own gear. I doubt you will find a dealer who will let you try both in your own system.

So just read some threads and pick the one you think will sound best. In the end, I don't think you can lose, as they are both fine turntables.

Happy hunting,
John
darkstar1
180 posts
 



I have a Dynavector 10x5. Its a hold over from my Scout. It sounds amazing on the prime. In fact it sounded like a entirely different cart.

I did have a friends 20x2 on the Prime. It sounds a little more detailed and refined. The same or bigger sound stage on everything. The bass is not as punchy. I have to admit I like the 10x5 better. More musical and fun. A lot of people would disagree with me but that is how I feel. Six moons agreed with me on a cart shoot out.  



https://www.avforums.com/review/vpi-prime-turntable-review.11784

This review suggest the Audio Technica AT33PTG/II is amazing cart on the prime. There has also been much talk of ART9 which cost 1000 bucks on audiogon. If the cheaper AT is a good match I am very curious to put the ART9 on the Prime.

VPI has cart suggestions on their website. They like MC ortofon cadenza series. They also have other brands listed on their website under the prime. You can also look at their user forum. Its filled with threads talking about what carts are being used on VPI tables.


Hope this helps. Don’t think you will go wrong with AT or Dynavector. Have fun


adg101
1,059 posts
 
Very happy with my Pro Ject Extension 10. Not heard the others in my system but I'd bet all great tables. The Extension 10 is a very impressive and solid built table. Anyone who thinks less hasn't probably seen or heard one in person. I think Fremer did a review on it which is pretty dead on. Solid performer that delivers far beyond its price. I'm using a Parks Audio Budgie PP and granted it's not a mega buck PP but the Pro Ject still sounds fabulous and I dare say the Budgie is a great piece as well but not up to the Pro Ject. Only complaint is the finger lift stinks so you have to use the cue which I still don't have any regrets. Great table. Good luck dragging one home to demo as it is a heavy beast. There's not much press out there so I bet you can pick one up at a great price; isn't there a dealer selling one here at a nice price?  Also if you want to upgrade the cable you have to pull the arm to get to the DIN connector, but still not a big deal. Good luck.
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