VPI JMW 12.5 counterweight upgrade

Dear BRF, I was aware of the Sound Smith's product before I purchased the XTCW. The difference is that the XTCW lowers the counter weight below the horizontal line of the cartridge, thereby, providing greater, potential, counter-force of those produced by the grooves acting on the stylus. The physics made sense and the improved sonics (musical reproduction) validated the science.

I suspect, also, that the resonant characteristics of the brass would help cancel out the resonant frequencies of the stainless steel. It sure sounds great, and maybe it does help cancel out some of the induced resonance.

So, the XTCW facilitated setup of VTA and azimuth, and it improved the music reproduction. Not bad for $80.

The VPI arms now have a lowered counterweight as you describe.

Dear Stringreen,

I had VPI's drop-style counter weight, as mentioned in my original thread. The XTCW has a much lower center of gravity. It provides greater stability and sonic performance than the VPI counter weight.

In response to Stringreen: As I mentioned in my original thread, I used the drop-style VPI counter weight. However, the XTCW has a lower center of gravity, provides greater stability, and better sonic performance to the VPI counter weight.

Redglobe...have you really tried using this XTC arm and compared it you the VPI?? I am using the 10.5i with a Benz Ebony LPS, and find the performance stunning. Never a tracking problem...big, wide and deep soundstage, etc.