VPI Classic hum

Wow, almost 18 months since I started this thread and it's still going on.

I've read the replies since my last post. It appears the motor mounting is the culprit. I'm sure VPI would have rectified this issue on all the Classics since then.

Macster - You'll be glad to know I've stuck with the Aries 3. One change, though, I ordered a Classic all-metal platter for it. This takes the Aries 3's bass to Classic level.

An A-B I did last year before giving up the Classic (and using the same Clearaudio Maestro cartridge) showed the Aries 3 to have more air and detail, and a bigger stage. The Classic had deeper and weightier bass. I switched platters (just a case of drop-in) and then the Aries 3's bottom end clicked nicely into place, the way I like.

Funny thing is, I then ordered a Classic platter from VPI, and when the unit came, it wouldn't fit on the Aries' spindle! Anyway, they did send a whole set - spindle and mount, so I remove the ones on the Aries and fixed the whole platter set.

So far, I'm pretty chuffed with the Aries 3 - I have a Dynavector XX2 MkII on it.

Would be interested to know how far sonically the Classic 3 is from the original model. I spied a new Classic 1 at my dealers, with the new finish plinth, and was tempted to give it another shot... what's it about that bloody Classic, then, ay? Must be all that wood that's calling me!

Just thought you folks might want to know where I've reached in my VPI adventures.

Cheers!

Still no hum on my Classsic rig. The only thing I hear is my wife screamin' to turn the music down. LOL

Bifwynne: Mine didn't, too, at first. I think not every unit was plagued by this issue. If yours is working fine, I envy you, I still love the Classic's looks and sound.

Mine didn't at first, but it does now. Again, if you never ever heard what I'm talking about, you wouldn't know that it's there. For the most part, it's covered up by the music. It's only apparent when you are listening to the table through headphones. However once you've heard it, you can pick it out without fail.

Bassraptor, thanks for the info about the platter/bearing interface. I'll be keeping my platter, whole arm assembly, feet and transferring them to the Aries 3. Let me know If you come up with any additional info.

M~

For those of you who are suffering in silence. Get the following: Danco #36 O-Ring pn#96750 $3.00 and Surface guard felt washer kit pn#9425--- $1.96 from Home Depot or where ever.

1. Put the Danco washers under the motor around the mounting screw holes. The motor will rest on the washers.

2. Take the smallest felt pad and place them on top of the motor felt side up, midway between the mounting holes.

3. Tighten (just snug) everything down using a star pattern.

Why this?
Because it helps to isolate the motor.
It's cheaper than buying a 300RPM motor ($140+ shipping.
It works... to a point.

If it doesn't work, the washers and felt pads make nice Xmas gifts.

M~