vpi tnt still a performer?

"the thread needs to be changed out every 40  records"..My friend never had to change the thread out every 40 records.Last time I talked to him hes never changed anything for over a year of constant playing of records.The guy is a vinyl lover also so he plays hundreds of records a year on his VPI.

^^^^^

re: threads vs belts.

Threads are not created equal.

Kevlar thread lasts a very long time; but it was far from being the ideal, for the best sound - in my setup. The type of setup we are using is also important. I got the best results with my previous TNT when there was a greater distance (slingshot effect) between motor pulley and platter. But this also produced the most stress on the fragile thread that I prefer, and the bearing.    

This same fragile thread lasts a very long with La Platine Verdier.

Horses for courses ....

Cheers.

My opinion as the owner of an early VPI Aries table....

TNTs with an oil bath bearing are really excellent tables (early TNTs, especially with the stainless / lead / acrylic platter).  I think they are superior to some of the later VPI offerings.  Haven't heard them head-to-head with the top Classic models, but I always thought the TNT retrieved better soundstage and imaging.  Likewise the Aries Extended.  

The Graham 1.5 is a quite good arm and well-mated to TNTs.  One tweak that should be considered regardless of VPI model is to place the table on three Stillpoint cones.  Big difference for me.

Again, my opinion.  YMMV.

I think those old aries tables are the best tables VPI ever made.

The early TNTs had a lead-acrylic platter.  No stainless involved.

Whether the TNT or similar table is better off with a solid connection to its base (as with Stillpoints) or a more flexible connection (as with springs, air bladders or squash balls) is likely  to depend on the room and set-up.