Has anyone heard the VPI Classic yet

great feedback Suteetat. Let us know what you think of the Dynavector when you try it out.

Given that the Raven under discussion used a Phantom arm and the copper platter (don't remember if there was a mat involved), how do you think the comparison would fare if the Classic was modified?

It's been a long time since I listened to an all aluminum platter (the original HW-19 platter), but I seem to remember that that platter was a little threadbare compared to the acrylic/lead replacement. I wonder how a graphite mat (say a Boston Mat1 or Mat2) or even a TTweights copper mat would change the Classic's sound.

Also, since the Classic arm really isn't a 10.5i (or whaterver the latest version is called), how would the latest arm wand change the sound? Or for that matter, a different arm, like a Phantom?

How about a speed controller?

At least then you'd have an apples to apples comparison.

the vpi classic cannot be fitted with a Phantom. Acc to VPI, it needs a different chassis than what the Classic can accomodate.

cmalak:
I use a grado reference cart and an audio research ph-3 phono amp. Also, I had the cart before buying the Classic so I didn't audition any other ones with it.

And another review from Hifi+: http://www.avguide.com/review/hifi-plus-68-the-vpi-classic-turntable