They are 2 very different sounding rigs. I extensively auditioned the Fat Bob S and owned an Aries 2 for 3 years before getting a great deal on a Kuzma Stabi Reference TT. The Fat Bob is on the neutral side and the VPI is on the warm side. The Aries 3, as told to me by my local dealer (who also sold VPI), provides more detail and gets your toes tapping more than the Aries 2, but it is still warmer sounding than the Fat Bob. I don't know have personal experience with the Aries 3, but the Aries 2 has a "melt-me-in-the chair" relaxing sound (in a very good way). The Fat Bob presents much better transparency, with solid, tuneful bass. The Aries is no slouch in the bass; I would consider the two to be equal in that department. The Fat Bob really impressed me with its ability to portray full, perfectly placed images, with air and blackness. I am still very much interested in the Fat Bob, but will probably wait until next spring to do another audition, this time with the Fat Bob Reference. Hope this helps.
Transrotor Fat Bob S vs. VPI Aries 3
I'm in the process of upgrading my analog front end. I've pretty well narrowed my short list to Transrotor Fat Bob S with an Origin Live Encounter arm and VPI Aries 3 with a JMW 10.5i arm, SDS, and periphery ring. Any opinions on how these rigs stack up? Unfortunately, I'm not in a position to audition either one.
I listen to many different kinds of music, from small ensemble chamber music to speed metal.
Thanks in advance.
I listen to many different kinds of music, from small ensemble chamber music to speed metal.
Thanks in advance.
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- 6 posts total
- 6 posts total