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SOTA vacuum or no?

I am considering a new SOTA Sapphire or Nova as a replacement for my VPI Scoutmaster. I am aware of the differences in features between the Sapphire and Nova, but the biggest difference is obviously the presence of the vacuum clamping system present on the Nova. Is it worth it? The price difference between these two SOTA's is about $1400, I think. I am curious as to the reliability of the vacuum system, sonic benefit versus using the SOTA I-clamp or Reflex clamp alone. Also, how easy is the vacuum system to live with? I'd prefer minimal tweaking, if possible. Thanks!
rockinrobin
rccc
216 posts
 
One of the things I notice with a Sota is that the arm appears motionless while playing. (this is also true with a ring clamp) On my best albums warp isnt an issue but on many of the records its nice to have something to flatten them to the platter.
smoffatt
205 posts
 
I have been a Sota owner for 23 years. Star, Nova and now Cosmos IV. I could never live without vacuum hold down. I just received a few vinyls from Cisco and Naim and they look like a salad bowl. Badly warped. Without vacuum hold down those would have to be returned. On the Cosmos, they are sucked flat onto the platter. The power supply housing the pump inside is DEAD QUIET. No hassle at all. Go for it buddy....go for it without hesitation. Call Sota 608-538-3500 and speak with Donna or Kirk.
All the best....
grimace
624 posts
 
The Sota vacuum system is really special. You can't go wrong with it. Seriously stable images. Tomb quiet. Great product. They're also very reasonable in the used market. If you're not sure you want to make the plunge pick one up used and play it for a while to see if you like the general sonic qualities. If you don't you'd get all or most of your money back re-selling it. Everyone I've ever spoken to who has one loves them though.
downunder
1,329 posts
 
I have been using the VPI outer ring on my rig for 4 years now and it is easy as apple pie to use as it locks onto the platter and will not move unless you lift it off the table. It is easier if you have room next to your table to place the outer ring onto while you are changing record's or a chair or something next to the table. having it around your next IMO is not a great idea.
You would have to be an idiot or plain dum ass lazy to crash the cantilever into the outer ring. It is no more dangerous that no outer ring

That said, there is a certain amount of life,flow or air that not using the outer ring gives to the music. Not sure if that "air" is also missing when you use a vacuum hold??

cheers
rccc
216 posts
 
"You would have to be an idiot or plain dum ass lazy to crash the cantilever into the outer ring. It is no more dangerous that no outer ring"
I guess theres a lot of lazy dumb asses on the forums I visit as it has come up several times and I have come close myself. Of course if it sounds better without youd have to be a dumb ass to use it.
cheers
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