VPI Aries versus VPI Classic

Macdadtexas,

Can you please tell me the difference between the Aries and the Classic. I have heard the Classic one time but it had a different cartridge and phone-pre so I really didn't have a direct comparison. Some dealers are telling me the Classic blows away the Aries. Others on Audiogon are telling me the Classic is a great table for the money but doesn't compare to the Aries. It's amazing how opinions are all over the place.

When the Classic came out, I called VPI and spoke to Sheila. I described my Aries (original series; HRX feet and SDS). She advised to stick with what I had.

Why would a 'dealer' tell you otherwise? There is really no way to make a direct comparison since cartridge, cables, SDS, accessories etc. make a difference. I have an Aries I and the only thing I miss is the ability to put an outer ring on it. If I was starting 'new' I would go with the Classic and load it up with accessories. However, if you want to put two arms on a table, best to look for an extended Aries.

Buconero, I am a VPI dealer who advised Taters to stick with the Aries. If you want a ring get the TTWeight one. I had a Super Platter on my Aries Extended and had both a VPI ring and the lighter TTW one and ended up using the TTW one more. A lot easier to use and does everything else about as well except flatten warps because of the light weight. They have heavier ones I haven't tried. Not a dealer for them.

My Aries was very bright compared to the Clearaudio Performance Magnum it replaced, and the VPI Classic which I now have. Not a contest, it lacked weight in the midrange, and with my gear some music just seemed to screetch.