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  3. 125903-163

VPI 3D printed arm mod.

I understand that the 3D arm (which is considered one of the best arms there is), now has a (what is called - very major) upgrade.  I understand there is an additional pivot point on the left side of the arm (so it's now a kind of hybrid - not a uni-pivot arm any more.)  I was told that middle road cartridges sound like an Atlas (hyperbole?) with the new mod.  I understand all 3D's can be modified to the new design for 100 dollars.....wow.
128x128stringreen
stringreen's avatar
stringreen OP
6,475 posts
 
Pivot damping generally closes in the sound,  ,,eliminates the air, etc.  Cartridges are designed with their own damping...that should be enough.
don_c55
1,025 posts
 
Proper adjustable pivot damping has always given me an "across the board" sonic improvement with every cartridge!

It is a must have adjustment IMO!
amaglioc's avatar
amaglioc
30 posts
 
I am very close to pulling the trigger on a Prime/Ortofon or Lyra combo after 6 months of vacillating. Would it be smart to wait until VPI offers tonearms with the mod already completed?

There's zero chance I'd attempt any major surgery on the arm once I have it.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen OP
6,475 posts
 
Harry already has modified a few arms....Fremer, his own, et al.......just order the Prime with the dual pivot arm. Its not surgery....Harry says he’s working on a way to do it at home with no tools.  By the way....Lyras and Ortofons work great with the 3D...
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,379 posts
 
When Harry changed from 12.6 to 12.7 he brought back adjustable fluid damping. IMHE it was a big improvement and continues to be useful. What I hear contradicts @stringreen 's comment above about closing in the sound and eliminating air. That's what happens when it's OVER-damped, not damped. If that is your result, just dip a Qtip or two into the fluid to absorb a bit of oil and you should be good to go. Cheers,
Spencer

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