2. analog
  3. 130077-8473

Need Advice On A New Turntable Upgrade

I am wanted to replace my Pro-Ject 5.1 turntable with a better turntable.

I have started listening to vinyl again after years of digital only.

I have a dealer locally that carries VPI, Acoustic Signature and Oracle.

Trying to keep it under 5000,00 including cartridge.

The VPI Prime I was looking at seems to be a great turntable but it is pretty wide and I would have to modify my audio rack which is not a big deal and I am not sure I like the motor separate from the table (I have a cat). I liked the looks of the VPI Classic, a few are still available but discontinued. One dealer I know was very critical of the VPI but I cannot find anything bad about them besides his opinion (he carries Acoustic Signature but not VPI but he is a very reputable dealer).

The Acoustic Signature seems to be a nice turntable. I was looking at the WOW XL. I used to have an old Oracle Alexandria but long gone. The Oracle have some new models but not sure I like the lighted base. I have a LFD Integrated amp and LFD phono stage and Harbeth 30.1 speakers.Any help on a turntable among these or another I might have missed and a cartridge would be much appreciated.

Thanks.

128x128dylanfan
dylanfan's avatar
dylanfan OP
139 posts
 
I definitely definitely like looks of the VPI Classic best, I found a decent deal on a b stock that has a slight scratch on it but not really noticeable. I like the motor being inside too instead of separate (I have a cat) like the Prime.

tablejockey
3,901 posts
 
dylanfan-

If you’re narrowing down choices, and you choose the Classic, make sure it’s the very last of the production run. A couple of runs VPI decided to try incorporating an inverting circuit for stable AC feeding the drive motor.

What this means is, there is a little DC box feeding the table. You can’t use any speed control devices(SDS, Phoenix) if, later down the road, you want precise platter speed.

I have one of these models, while it’s generally fine, I occasionally see these units listed for cheap, but can’t use them!
On rare occasion, the audio geek ears can hear the speed fluctuation, depending on instrument. Not a deal killer, just sayin....

The final runs do not have this circuitry. Easy to tell, if the power cord simply plugs into the table, you’re fine.

I see Classics listed regularly for great pieces. Spend another 1k on a LOMC, and you’re done. Invest in an equally competent phono stage. The Classic is worthy of a $2k+ unit if your tolerance can handle it. Always good,used listings for $2k+phono stages, which are always negotiable to half or better of retail.

dylanfan's avatar
dylanfan OP
139 posts
 
I just had my dealer order the last Classic from the distributor.  Brand new so it should be the final run.  I am looking forward to using it. Thanks for all the help!
Post removed 
dylanfan's avatar
dylanfan OP
139 posts
 

Thanks tablejockey for the headsup about the DC box. I verified today that it is the final run and does not have the box in line.

I am excited to hear it.

More to discover