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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
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.       
bigkidz
3,372 posts
 
I would give a call to Matt at VPI.  He is very easy to deal with and honest.  Ask him for assistance.  
mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,488 posts
 
If you decide to keep that table replace the arm with VPI's gimbal bearing arm. Your bass will improve quite a bit and it should do just about any cartridge justice.
bifwynne
2,206 posts
 
bigkidz, ... do you know if Matt (or anybody) picks up the phone at VPI?  Years ago, before Harry retired, somebody (like Jack or Mike) would also pick up the phone.  Not sure what goes at VPI with Matt at the helm. 
rushfan71
291 posts
 
I have a VPI Super Prime Scout with a Lyra Kleos. I have my eye on a Prime Signature with the gimbaled arm. Rather than upgrade the super prime to the gimballed arm for $4000 I would rather spend $6500 and get the P Sig with the arm and the nicer plinth. But I would definitely keep the Kleos
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