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VPI Classic 3 or SME 20/2

Hello all - I'm considering moving from my Classic 3 with 10.5 3D arm to the SME 20/2 with SME V arm and I wanted to see if anyone out there has made this move (or a similar move) and if so what are your impressions. I'm using a Benz LPS cartridge right now and use the Allnic AUT2000 step-up transformer into the MM phono stage of my VAC integrated (sigma 160i). Overall I am very happy with my vinyl sound right now - I'm only considering trying the SME because it is available for a good price within driving distance and it's such a ballyhooed tt that so many seem to consider a destination piece. (I also, like many of you I imagine, enjoy trying new gear.) But it will be a bit of hassle doing everything involved to make it happen and so if it is going to be largely a lateral move I'd prefer to avoid the effort. I'm aware that the SME V doesn't allow for azimuth and on-the-fly VTA adjustments. Have also read that the Benz LPS is a nice match for the SME V. Also painfully aware that there's no way to know without hearing with my own ears - I can (and will) audition the SME but I never have much success getting a feel for other gear in short auditions in unfamiliar rooms. So any impressions out there would be much appreciated. 
davelarz
davelarz OP
43 posts
 
Melm - I've looked at what SME/VPI conversations exist here and at other places. Not much, a thread comparing the HRX with the 20/2 from 2006 I think. And yes it's true I'm happy with my vinyl sound now. But surely you are familiar with the itch to be just that much more... happier.

Fstein... but I like my speakers. Do you even know what speakers I have? I don't think I mentioned that in this thread. Maybe I filled out a "your system page" here at some point that I don't remember. 

Anyway I have Verity Parsifal Encores and I like them.
jperry
2,450 posts
 
I had a SME 10 with a Benz-Micro LPS and have heard the SME 20 which is also a great turntable. I have set up and heard a couple of VPI turntables.

I would get the SME 20. Great rock solid turntable. Set it up and no need to fiddle as it will stay set up correctly. The arm will be a great match with a Benz LPS.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,468 posts
 
I had an SME V which wasn't able to adjust for azimuth. (I don't really remember)   Maybe that changed since I had mine, but azimuth adjustment is very important for proper setup for me. 
tzh21y
1,654 posts
 
I actually agree with melm.  They will sound different.  Not necessarily better so to speak.  Your system will have a lotto do with it as well.
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,379 posts
 
Not sure if this will help, but my local audio club of 80 members had more owners of VPI tables than any other brand, everything from original Scout to HRX. About 2 years ago, about 6 or 7 of 15-20 all sold their VPIs and went in varying directions. Not a single one of them has gone back to a VPI nor regretted the decision. Most of the changers went sideways or slightly up in price. FWIW, I  was one of those guys.Don't think any of us bought SME, so no direct comparisons. 
When I have heard of dissatisfaction w/SME it's usually with the arms sounding "boring", perhaps too dark and analytical. Of course, detractors would argue that the SME extracts more details and that it's a good thing. 
Ultimately, without a chance to compare them side by side, you are going to have to trust your gut at some point. Perhaps that's why so many replies touch on the market aspects of your dilemma. Cheers,
Spencer 
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