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VPi HW 19 jr upgrade

I have a the above table with MKII platter, Audioquest arm and Grado Sonata. With the multitude of used VPI tables, platters and factory supplied upgrades whats my best sub $1,000 route?
Interesting thing is most VPIs and other manufactures tend to go unsprung these days in this price range and above verses the MKII +++ type of layout. My HW JR has the sorbathane pucks. I'd like advice from from experienced VPI owners. What route should I go with the table and or should I get a different arm? Thanks,
steve
128x128ssurbaugh
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,701 posts
 
That is definitely a MK3 platter. Also a MK3 table has a separate arm board and a steel chassis under the plinth. You have a great table. Spend your money on another upgrade. Tonearm?
ssurbaugh's avatar
ssurbaugh OP
16 posts
 
Yogi,
Thanks for the info.
I bought the table used back in '93 and was just happy it had an upgraded platter. Never had paperwork regarding the platter.

So do you think replacing the plinth with a Mk3 set up with Sorbos is a good route? Or do think leaving as is and maybe an arm? Didn't follow you there.

thanks, Steve
rodman99999
6,158 posts
 
The Mk III or IV's steel and acrylic chassis, is a definite improvement, over the Jr's. You can buy a one piece, MK IV sub-chassis, from VPI for $300.00: (http://www.vpiindustries.com/static.php?page=HW-19) Add a SAMA for $400.00(or build your own, if you're handy), for another major improvement in sound. The Audioquest/Jelco arms were nice units, and worth keeping.
ssurbaugh's avatar
ssurbaugh OP
16 posts
 
Rodman,

Thanks. $300 is not bad. So, that's run the springs or the Sorbos with the steel and acrylic chassis?

Steve
ppomerantz's avatar
ppomerantz
8 posts
 
I had the Jr with a MK4 platter, Jelco 250 arm and Grado Ref Sonata cart. I eventually sold the table to upgrade to an Aries 1 but kept the cart which I like. Buyer wanted the table mostly for its coveted platter.

Some other upgrade options are the Stainless clamp, $150 new, less used.

Replace the feet. Many options here. One that I know of is Edensound who have 2 options available. Dan the owner has done a lot of VPI feet replacements.

Free upgrades: Take the cover off when playing records to reduce vibration. Keep the bearing lubed at least once a year.

Maple butcher block under the table, 2 to 3 inches thick. $5o and up. Look for a cutting board, cheaper than the "Audiophile" boards. Lots of sellers on ebay.

It's a great table and a real bargain for the going rate I see them listed for.
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