VPI TNT Turntables

The TNT series included versions numbered 1 through 6. I own the TNT6HR. "HR" hot rod, means that the tonearm assembly is directly mounted to the plinth without a typical armboard.

The various TNTs included many evolutionary improvements and not all are agreed upon. The relative merits of various feet and platters especially are often debated here and elsewhere. For me, one of the best improvements was the change in the 12.6 tonearm to the 12.7. That included going to a 3 piece assembly that guarantees proper geometry vs. the older 5 piece assembly that was trickier to align correctly. The 12.7 also returned to include an oil dampening trough which I find to be a benefit. Valhalla wiring also a nice improvement.

The TNT6HR is very similar to the HRX which replaced it, the main difference being the sandwich constructed plinth. Most other aspects are the same between those including the dual motor/flywheel, feet, arm, ring & center clamps. I am not up to speed (pun!) on later improvements/changes to the HRX. 

3D arm seems to be the hot tweak for us VPI owners nowadays.

For sh*ts and giggles, check out the tiny replica in my avatar pic! Cheers,
Spencer 

What you are asking is for someone to write a book because you don’t want to do the research yourself. The information is all out there for you.

There were differences in each generation and differences within generations. Here are the topics, each of which has several variants:

1. Suspensions
2. Bearings
3. Platters
4. Plinths
5. Motors
6. Flywheels
7. Speed controllers
8. Belt tripods
9. Arm size*
10. Arm base*
11. Arm tube*
12. Arm wiring*

To which we can add VPI accessories (stands, clamps, weights, etc.) and third party products and services.

*You say you have chosen an arm, but when you find a TNT for sale it will likely come with an arm.

Did I leave anything out?

So how many combinations are out there? Too many to count and write about without writing a book.

You've chosen a great combo, I have a TNT with two ET 2s on it. The one upgrade I would not do without is the flywheel, whether you have one or two motors. Another important one is the speed controller and then the platter which there is lots of disagreements on.   I would go with the Delrin aluminum cork and lead platter or the latest classic platter with the inverted bearing. As far as the feet go I don't think there's a whole heck of a lot of difference aside from the air bladders di require more maintenance but I don't think it's a big deal. Normally about once every two months I have to add some air and relevel. Takes about five minutes.