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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
dgarretson
2,622 posts
 
I believe the Project speed box is 16V, which precludes use on a 120V VPI motor. I recently installed Mark Kelly's battery powered Synchrotron AC-1 Drive Controller with a VPI 300RPM motor. It's a killer solution that may equal or surpass an SDS at about half the cost. However it's available only as a kit requiring fairly advanced DIY skills.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,531 posts
 
My experience is that the cartridge makes the most significant upgrade in sound. I had a Grado Sonata which was brown in color with fuzzy sound, had respectable width, but not much depth. When I changed to a Benz it was a revelation.
photon46
1,098 posts
 
Dave, I looked up your thread about the Synchrotron AC-1 controller on Audioasylum, but I didn't see any links or info about a website or contact info for Mark Kelly. Is there somewhere we can look for more info about the AC-1?
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
The JMW-9, like all VPI tonearms, is limited in its' ability to track high end cartridges. Invest in a better table/arm or simply use an inexpensive Sumiko or Dynavector with the JMW-9.

Owners of Zyx Universe, Transfiguration Orpheus, Dyanvector XV-1S, etc. are not using VPI tonearms.

An excellent tonearm and average cartridge will outperform an average tonearm and excellent cartridge in every case.

Not opinion, simply a demonstrated fact.
dgarretson
2,622 posts
 
Photon, Mark doesn't have a website yet, but you will find contact info under the AA For Sale section, or you can email a request for AC-1 theory & build documents to mark@quidditytech.com.
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