CPI super platter vs. Classic aluminum platter

I was the original poster on this and have since replaced my Super Platter with the Classic platter, which was later upgraded to a Classic platter with inverted oil-pumping bearing which Harry had custom-made.

The Classic platter is much better sounding IMO than the Super Platter. While the Super Platter was better than the original acrylic platter that came with my original Super Scoutmaster, the Classic platter is much more lively, dynamic, with clearer more natural sound. The Super Platter was dark sounding and veiled dynamics. As to Stringreen's point the Classic platter is also much better with the rim drive which I have. I have also upgraded to the 3D tonearm, which is a big improvement over the JMW 10.5i arm.

One of the great things about VPI is the ability to upgrade the platter, motor, tonearm, bearing, feet, etc. "if you want to."

Hiendmuse...I also have a Superscout/rim drive with Classic platter and 3D arm. Harry told me the difference between ours and the very top of the line VPI direct drive is almost non existent.

It is pretty close Stringreen, but the Direct Drive is in a class of its own IMO. I've heard it on a few occasions. The Classic Platter fitted with the inverted oil-pumping bearing Harry which had made for me sounds even better than the standard Classic platter I had previously as the new platter spins with less resistance and more ease using a few drops of light synthetic oil instead of the Super Lube or white lithium grease.

Interesting. Notwithstanding any possible theoretical advantages, I have never understood the practical advantages of inverting the bearing. Like many other changes, I wonder whether its main purpose is reducing production costs.

The original non-inverted bearing sits in the bottom of a pool of light synthetic oil and has no need for pumping. Simple and efficient. I use Slick 50 Synthetic, which used to be a factory recommendation.

Harry told me that he could make me a non-inverted bearing but did not recommend it, from an engineering standpoint, he said the non-inverted bearing will want to move after 6 months. The inverted bearing is more stable.