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Vpi Prime Scout (New) vs Well Tempered

I am a new member and I need some help. I'm looking for a new turntable to replace my Clearaudio Emotion with Concept mc cartridge and ended up in two choices: Vpi Prime Scout(New) with Kiseki Blue cartridge and Well Tempered Versalex with Soundsmith Zephyr cartridge. Is there anybody who has listened to these two choices in comparison? My music preferences are Jazz, classical, folk and indie music. Which is the best & most value for money choice for me?

Thanks
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stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,381 posts
 

I have had 3 VPI tables and currently have a Prime.  I had an original Scout and the new Scout Prime is a huge upgrade.  The VPI tables are reliable, heavy and sound excellent on all types of music.  I will admit I am not a fan of a turntable whose arm uses a fishing line and a golf ball in the design.  Reminds me of a home brew garage project.  I wonder if the Titleist golf ball sounds better than another brand of golf ball?

The VPI is a table you can use for 20 or 30 years and then pass it down to another family member where it will keep on working.

everstar's avatar
everstar
6 posts
 

First off the tables are at two different prices points.  The well tempered  Versalex is one away from WT top player. I assume you would be buying that WT used and the VPI New?

I would suggest buying VPI used as well if you can setup a table. Used market comes with risks but is more bang for the buck. Risk can be mitigated with smart buying.

I personnel believe that you can't go wrong with either tables. Put this in context you are buying a really nice table no matter which direction you choose. 

Honestly the WT and VPI are just different flavors. From my extensive exposure to VPI and small experience with WT I could be very happy with either. 

VPI seems to have a wider sound stage and bigger sound. a More neutral sound and more forward. More bloom in the bass slightly rounded. 

The well tempered seems to be warmer. More laid back in presentation. A more taut bass. It does have a very nice almost tube sound in the mids but probably not as accurate at the VPI,

They are both really nice. Just different flavors. People love both and a lot of people say WT best VPI tables. I didn't feel that way just thought they were different sounding tables. 

tzh21y
1,654 posts
 
I while back I started a thread regarding the aluminum platter vs the acrylic.  VPI currently just offers aluminum.  I believe the well tempered is acrylic.  I know many will disagree but the acrylic just sounds more like real music to me than the aluminum.  So I would bet the Well Tempered would fit my needs better.  I have a VPI scout and have both platters.  The aluminum sits in the box and I will probably sell it.  I just do not like the overall tone of the table with the aluminum. ymmv but the acrylic just sounds more real to me.  i will say the that the aluminum is much more lively and seems a bit quieter.  maybe with the right turntable platter mat it would be ok.
mr_m
1,900 posts
 
Stereo5

I don't believe you are familiar with the Well Tempered turntables. True they don't have the glitz and glamour appearance of the VPI's, but all one has to do is listen to the WT's. Their sonic capabilities are there in spades.....
Cheers,
Tim
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