VPI or Pro-ject

Devialet  is an excellent system. I heard it a on a few occasions and I was very impressed. I even met the Devialet rep from France at the Newport "The Show" last year. But I do think you should seriously consider an external phono stage.

I have the Prime with the Ortofon Quintet Black MC catridge.  About 6 months old with 75 - 100 hours on it.  It is really smooth, great soundstage, but wouldn't say punchy with the Quintet Black.  The Quintet Black does everything well, but there are more expensive options that are much better at punch, dynamics, but maybe not as smooth.  Depends on your taste.  I really love the Ortofon's midrange and outstanding on vocals in particular.  The soundstage and detail is excellent.

I am actually thinking of selling it or trading it in for a two armed table very soon, as I think I want to get into a mono and stereo cartridge on the two arms.  Can't complain though and highly recommend the Prime.  It is way above its price point and a super value (if you can consider $4000 a value).  I haven't heard a bad review on the Prime, including the forums.  The other good thing about the Prime is there are so many upgrades you can do to it - you'd probably be set for a very long time.

I just put an order in for the new ProJect RPM 10 Carbon at $3500.00  My old 10.1 IMO beat the current VPI Prime sound wise. Please folks, this is just my opinion. I just don't care for the sound of VPI.

exron, your opinion is as valid as it needs to be for your listening tastes and your system. It would be interesting to understand what you prefer in the Pro-ject over the VPI.

I have the Project Extension 12 with The Sumiko Celebration 2 Cartridge. It sounds great and have had no issues over the 2 years that I have owned it.