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VPI Classic 3 Upgrades or Move On to Something New

I'm the 2nd owner of a VPI Classic 3, bought here on Audiogon in 2014.  Cartridge is Soundsmith VPI Zephyr.  Considering giving it some new life with a JMW 10-3D Unipivot Tonearm, Signature Feet, and ADS Speed Controller.  Total upgrade cost - $3,950.  

Or...should I go in a new direction and give another turntable a try?  I have no complaints about my current setup, but don't have a frame of reference for what I might be missing out on. 

Budget for a new turntable/cartridge combo is anywhere from $5,000-$10,000. Thoughts? 
Ag insider logo xs@2xjjgasp
tablejockey
3,867 posts
 
Never mind the table....

Is it plugged into the best phono stage you can afford? After that, up the food chain with a new SS cart. You will get endless opinion saying the VPI is this or that, but your ears tell you it's fine. 

Treat yourself to this .Submit your best offer, and see if a middle ground can be met.
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisa50ed-vpi-industries-hw-40-40th-anniversary-direct-drive-turnta...

Or this
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisa5a7g-vpi-avenger-reference-turntable-turntables
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjgasp OP
64 posts
 
Thanks to all for your valuable feedback.  Much appreciated.
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
tablejockey's comment about a good phono stage is a good one

but certainly not exclusive of getting a better performing table
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjgasp OP
64 posts
 
Currently swapping in and out two integrateds with built-in phono stages  - Vinny Rossi L2i SE w/L2 phono module and Linear Tube Audio Ultralinear w/ MM/MC phono stage.
bifwynne
2,206 posts
 
jjgasp,

I own a Classic 2.7 (sic).  Basically a Classic 1/2 plinth, which I upgraded by swapping out the tonearm, base and motor.  My back-up cartridge is a SS Zephyr.  My regular cartridge is  Lyra Kleos. 

Your OP states that your cartridge is a SS Zephyr.  If 1st generation Zephyr, you can get more bang from your buck with a cartridge upgrade.  The Zephyr (1st generation) is an ok cartridge, but just ok. 

Agree with comments above re phono pre.       
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