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VPI Turntable choices.

I am in the market again for a turntable. I am torn between the VPI HW-19Mk3 and the VPI Prime Scout. I have owned the Mk3 before, no modifications plain factory setup. I have missed it ever since I sold it for its attractive price and its ability to play vinyl so well.

My question is for those may have moved up to a Prime Scout from something like the HW-19Mk3, for the price difference, was the improvement worth the money or did you find the Mk3 comparable doing some possible upgrades?

Before I get a lot of other suggestions I really want to stick with VPI, I have always been pleased with their turntables and I know what to expect when purchasing one over the internet.

Thanks for the input

Dean

drf24
gillatgh's avatar
gillatgh
381 posts
 
There is another VPI choice, kinda best of both worlds. It's the Prime Super Scout, basically a VPI Prime on a Scout plinth.  Special build for Upscale Audio. I went that direction and have zero regrets. Go check it out, compare and take your time deciding what's best for you. 
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bdp24's avatar
bdp24
9,788 posts
 
@bpoletti, in the past year I got the best deal of my audiophile life. I found an Aries 1 in great condition, missing its' bearing housing and platter. Just the plinth with its' four cone feet, motor in its' separate pod, and arm board, for $400. Shortly thereafter I found an Aries 1 bearing (1" threaded stainless steel) and platter (the 1.25" thick version---3/8" Delrin top layer, 7/8" aluminum/lead bottom layer), also in Mint- condition, for $300. Nice turntable for $700!
soundwatts
221 posts
 
My friend went from a 19 to a prime scout and there was a significant difference and you have all modern upgrade options. As the poster up above said if you can swing the superscout from Upscale Audio you will be set for life. 
slimpikins5's avatar
slimpikins5
191 posts
 
I picked up a VPI Ares 3 a couple of years ago with the super platter mounted on it.  I replaced the conical feet it came with as they were not effective at isolating acoustic feedback with my second level listening area on a wood floor/post and beam framed area.   The table weighs around 75 pounds so I fitted a set of four SVS Isofeet made for their subs and they completely dampened any and all feedback and foot drops.  

The turntable is absolutely fabulous, I would highly recommend it.
I mounted a SME Series IV tonearm.
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