VPI Aries versus VPI Classic

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.

I can't Imagine an Aries being bright. I have heard 2 other ones besides mine and bright is the last thing they are. What kind of cartridge and phono-preamp are you using?

The Classic is a good table; I have had a lot of VPIs in my 2 tours as a dealer and I have never had or heard a properly set up one of any vintage sound bad. I am just not sure it is an advance on the previous generation Scoutmaster, let alone the Aries. I should have mentioned in my previous post that the TTW ring fit all the VPIs I have tried it as well as the Basis.