2. analog
  3. 1262825245

Another VPI or something else for under $2k

I have a max out VPI SSM Ref (rim drive & super platter), it sounds superb in my main system.

I will be moving and want to setup a small analog system. Just bought a PCX modded PS Audio GCPH which I will use as pre/phono. I will be buying my analog used to maximize my return. Want to keep TT/arm budget under $2k, lower is better. I have some spare cartridges (Transfiguration Tempest, Rao something, and a Shure), haven't decided which one to use.

The usual suspects are:

VPI Superscout
Clearaudio Performance CMB (very rare in used market)
Nottingham Space 294 (most likely over $2k)

I want to try something other than VPI if I can, but VPI is most abundant and very proven. Another VPI?
semi
curio's avatar
curio
305 posts
 
I don't know the price but the new TW Acoustic Raven 0.5 smells good TT

http://www.tw-acustic.de/images/img0542_540.jpg.jpg

http://www.tw-acustic.de/images/img0545_540.jpg.jpg

http://www.tw-acustic.de/images/img0543_540.jpg.jpg
semi OP
649 posts
 
If it is from TW Acustic, I am sure it will be more than $2k new...
cmalak
681 posts
 
the TW Acustic Raven 0.5 is in the $4K range...fyi
4musica44107
520 posts
 
The Well-Tempered Amadeus has generated a lot of interest amongst Well-Tempered owners and other vinyl enthusiasts. As a result, this appears to be a good time to acquire a used Well-Tempered Reference set-up for something reasonably close to your price limit.
tfkaudio
591 posts
 
I agree that butter pecan is the way to go. Strain out the pecans before damping your tonearm with it. Add a little to the main bearing to get a sweeter sound.

Seriously though, you've got a VPI so try something else. I've often thought of getting a second TT (I also have the SSM Rim-Drive) and if I had...

a lot of money I'd try - Teres
a little money I'd try - Rega

I'd really like to try the Grand Prix Monaco, but that would require a lot of money stacked on top of even more money. (The SSM Rim-Drive was a multi-year budget stretcher for poor me.)

Cheers
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