2. analog
  3. 1183881299

What's the limit for cart upgrade/VPI Scout?

Been looking at archived threads, and don't see this particular question, so here goes- what's the limit of how good a cartridge you can put on the VPI Scout? Currently using a Lyra Dorian, which sounds great, but I can't help wondering what would happen if say, a Titan i or other high-end cart were to be used? Anyone tried it? Silly question, I know, but is one better off investing in more in the way of a table, or in a cartridge? Sorry, had to ask. Thanks, Dan
islandmandan
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
Kudo's for a most upfront response from Jcarr (not that I'm surprised).

Some might have remained silent. Others might have made some effort toward encouraging a sale of their top model. Instead he voluntarily stepped in to say, in effect, "Not yet, you'll get more from improving your rig and setup first."

Ethical post of the month nomination.
dodgealum's avatar
dodgealum
1,417 posts
 
Arnold: You may want to consider the Dynavector 20XM. In my discussions with the folks at VPI this is their "no brainer" for the Scout. I had a 20XH for a while and then switched to the medium output version and heard greater speed and detail. Not a huge difference but worthwhile in my estimation.
dgarretson
2,622 posts
 
Now that your platform has improved vibration control, I suspect your biggest & most cost-effective upgrade will be to improve speed stability. Like you I'm currently without a speed controller(my despised TNT PLC Speed Controller finally gave up the ghost.) Though I could go for an SDS, I'm leaning away from it. Having become convinced of the superiority of thread drive over rubber belts on my TNT, for a bit more money than the SDS I'm inclined to abandon belt drive altogether, and replace the entire VPI engine with the forthcoming Teres rim-drive motor & controller. This could be applied to the Scout as well.
islandmandan OP
1,260 posts
 
Wow, I really hit paydirt on this thread! Thanks Jonathan, and Doug, and Kehut, and dodgealum, and Dave, for your contributions to my continuing education in things vinyl. I have been thinking about getting a speed controller, but the two most recommended, the SDS and Walker, are more than I can spring for at the moment. Anyone know of a lower cost alternative to the above controllers? Thanks again, Dan
islandmandan OP
1,260 posts
 
I forgot to address the tt set-up issue, I don't know of anyone in my area that's reputed to be a set-up guru. I live on Whidbey Island, about 100 miles N.W. of Seattle. If there is somebody out there in this area, I would like to hear about it. I do feel pretty confident about my set-up, having listened intently while making very small adjustments until things just popped into focus, and there was a big difference when that occurred. But, little things seem to make a big difference, so I would be willing to have it checked out. Thanks all, Dan
More to discover