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VPI Classic and ZYX Airy 3 X SB...good match?

Hello everybody,

I have decided to purchase a VPI classic with sds, peripheral ring and HRX clamp after collecting many opinions.
Music I like to listen to is prevalent acoustic, vocal, classic music and jazz (NO Rock).
I like neutral sound, precise tracking, no coloration, but still full body/harmonic sound.
I know I am asking for a bit too much perhaps but by reading on the forum and elsewhere the cartridge that would better match all these specs would be the ZYX Airy 3 X with the Silver base option to overcome the light tonearm's issue.
Now it is time to purchase the pick up...but since it is not so cheap I want to make sure I am doing the right thing and that is why I am addressing a new post here hoping to collect some more useful thoughts in this regard.

Thank you very much for your attention.

Best,
Stefano.
stefanoo
brrgrr
163 posts
 
Thanks for the insights.Is the SB sold separate from the Airy 3 if it is not needed? and if so, what is the difference?

Ah, for the days we taped a penny to the tonearm to get better tracking!!..
I'm interested in the cartridge, and having a JMW 10 need the extra weight.
Just trying to get the best use of my money.

Would any of you have any opinion of how the Airy 3 would compare with a Soundsmith Zephyr, perchance? See a lot of good comments about it. Is it in the same league?
Thanks
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,500 posts
 
I think it would be a good match....we're talking about 3000 dollars. I think you can get an Ortofon Windfield for about that much....and to MY Ears is a better cartridge.
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
Brrgrr,

The SB option is factory-installed by ZYX before the cartridge is shipped. You can't field retrofit one and it's not sold separately.
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