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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
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 
davelarz OP
43 posts
 
Really helpful feedback sbank, and I appreciate it. The market aspect in this case is not very troubling to me - the SME is being offered at a price where I feel like if I decide to do so it won't be a big problem, could possibly make money on the deal. And if I sell my VPI (and a few other things I have around that I need to move) I will break even on the swap. More the effort involved - long drive, the effort of potentially selling a Classic 3 which is a hassle. But I've decided to go for it. I've read all of those "dull, uninvolving" critiques of SME tt's and I admit I'm skeptical. I will report back. 
nekoaudio's avatar
nekoaudio
489 posts
 
@stringreen I fully agree that an azimuth/crosstalk calibration is super important. Adjusting for azimuth on an SME V tonearm is very difficult, but possible. (It takes me a few hours.) Unfortunately you have to play with the cartridge on the arm, instead of being able to rotate the arm or headshell, so it ends up being a lot of trial and error until you get it right.
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