Next Upgrade for VPI Scoutmaster TT

I'd upgrade the tonearm to the JMW-10.5i. Your setup is identical to mine. The only difference is I'm using the HR-X Minifeet and a Ray Samuels Audio Nighthawk phono preamp. My next upgrade will be to the 10.5i arm which is $1000 with the trade-in of the JMW-9 Signature.

I am a VPI and Dynavector dealer and have used a standard Scoutmaster and the 75 2 phono stage. The first thing I would do is to change the standard feet for Star Sound solid brass ones [1/4 20 thread]. This tightens up the bass and improves transient response in general. The standard aluminum feet with a rubber washer have a definite effect on the sound, I have tried them on a Scout, Scoutmaster and Aries extended and they improved all of them. My Aries came with the Mini TNT feet and I sold them after I tried these. I am a dealer for them but suggest you get them direct from the web site. Be persistent as they are essentially a one man company. The 75 is a great phono stage for the money, you can do better within your budget but it takes carful shopping. I got a Musical Fidelity Kw phono stage used for under $1400 and it is a considerable upgrade. But they are quite rare, I haven't seen one since. The Mini Basis phono stage shows up used for around $1000, I am currently using the big one and it is a great phono stage, according to one review the smaller one offers 90% of its performance. You don't say what ICs you are using on the phono. Go slow as you already have a very good set up but try the feet first, you will be surprised at the difference.

Hi Stanwal, which Star Sound solid brass feet would you recommend in the 1/4-20 thread size?

Threaded Audio Points:
http://www.starsoundtechnologies.com/THREADED.HTML

If you do not have a Mint LP protractor I'd suggest that to get the most out of your cartridge. However, if you are going to upgrade your arm soon wait as you'll need a different Mint.

I like the feet from TTWeights, but they are spendy.

Either the 1.5" or 2" will work. I have used the 1.5 most of the time. Another thing I forgot to mention was I took the rubber feet off the VPI motor and put 3 .2 Audio Points under it instead. I have used products from TTWeights and been happy with them but have not tried the feet.