Anyone NOT like the sound of VPI?

Wow... so much info. You guys definitely give me hope. I know that the dealer who setup my tt the other day chose the heaviest VTF possible (2.0). I don't have any turntable tools; I need to invest in some.

So, trying to summarize what I've learned from you guys:

- VPI is not known for anemic bass; something in my cartridge or setup must be the culprit.

- A wall shelf may not make that much difference, but that the MDF platform that my TT is sitting on is not ideal and I should get a maple platform of some kind (even if it sits on the MDF platform?)

- Lowering the tonearm so that at the base it is lower than the cartridge will help bass

- I can even increase the VTF so that it goes beyond the recommended value for my cartridge (2.0) and increase bass.

I still haven't figured out what SDS is - can someone enlighten me?

Thanks for all the speaker tips.

Madfloyd, just Google "VPI SDS" and check it out. The third hit will take you to Audiophilia's review after it's release.

Be careful, these adjustments aren't "tone controls", wrong adjustments affect the sound in various ways, not as consistent as you seem to assume they are. You'll soon find out in what way the adjustments are affecting the sound.

Madfloyd,
SDS is a box that plugs between the ac cord and the wall. It helps keep speed consistently at 33.33 or 45rpm. Walker Audio's Motor Controller is a competing product that does the same thing.
Although that might improve your overall sound to some degree(and probably will), it doesn't address your problem. Fix that first.

Your other learnings in your last post as basically correct. Try reading the turntable setup tips on walkeraudio.com. They will help you. Cheers,
Spencer

The problem is the cartridge needs a 3-4 gram weight on the headshell to improve the upper bass lower midrange response. This is not an ideal match but can be made to work if you increase the mass.

You must also let the Valhalla wire break in, seriously, it needs 50 to 60 hours of playing to loosen up the sound. Set the back of the arm down slightly which will slighly increase the tracking force, make sure you are level and if you do not have seriously slam bang bass get
a new phono section.

I really don't understand why dealers team up cartridges and arms based on absolutely nothing. Get the Dynavector 20X-M and you will have slam, bass, and a beautiful soundstage and midrange.

HW