VPI Prime or Scout or ???


Hi all,

I’m new to record players. I’ve always been a digital music person. That said, I’ve got s nice setup now and am looking for a record player for occasional records. I won’t be too serious about it and digital will remain my main source.

i know with some of the higher end players there is a learning curve but was hoping for something not too difficult to learn.

Being from NJ, I was pretty interested in VPI. I’m not sure I quite understand the differences between the Prime and Prime Scout. The Prime would probably be near the top of my budget. Also, I have no idea which cartridge to get. 

For context, I’ll mostly be listening to vintage jazz and rock. The turntable would feed into the Phono stage of my Mytek Manhattan. Any suggestions welcome! There is a pretty good deal on a Prime Scout I’m looking at so that’s why I figured I’d ask the experienced people here.
Ag insider logo xs@2xmayoradamwest
Awesome! The RP8 looks great; good choice. The Ortofon black is a good start too - is that a 2M, Quintet, or Cadenza? All 3 are fine cartridges, either way. You definitely haven't make the mistake of starting too low with sub-par budget analog gear, which only leads to frustration and regret. Enjoy!
thanks @mulveling it's the Quintet Black. I auditioned with the Quintet Bronze but figured why not spend an extra $150 for the Black. I'm not sure I really understand the sound difference between the different lines, but the owner of the shop seemed to prefer the Quintet pairing with the RP8.
The Prime, The RP8, and the 1200G are all great tables.  I picked the 1200G.  It was just personal preference.  The RP8 was really great, if I could have mounted it to the wall that may have been my choice but that was not an option.  The Prime is a nice table as well.  tough choice.
I have a Nottingham Analogue TT, which almost competes with my air bearing TT. I use it for mono. Both are clean, quiet, solid.

Consider a Tom Fletcher design: NA or Pear Audio. No hype, small production, no bragging rights. Just high value for money.