Upgrade From Systemdek IVe

Your next step is probably to get a better cartridge than the x3 you are using now. that will probably make the most noticeable difference in your sound for the least expenditure.

Thank you for the replies.
I still have some confusion as to which way to go given all the nuances behind turntable performance and selection so I want to simplify the question and greatly appreciate your opinion.
If I did install a Graham 2.0 or 2.2 arm on the Systemdek (the ones I can afford) or a Micro Seiki 505 (which I also think very highly of) how would the Systemdek with either of these 2 arms compare to either the VPI Scoutmaster with 10 inch arm or the older VPI Aries 1 with a 10 inch arm? I am very fond of VPI for several reasons (built quality, service, performance, etc.) so I am simplifying my question by asking for a comparison against 2 specific tables I like.
Against these 2 VPI tables how favorably, or not so favorably would the Systemdek with either a Graham or Micro Seiki arm compare? Please be as specific as you can with the reply.
Thank you very much.

As you are clear that you want to buy a Graham arm & you like VPI, the Classic would be a good choice.
The Systemdeck is a good T/T but has its' sonic limitations so unfortunately will not let you experience anywhere near the potential of the Graham.
The VPI will be a big step-up provided that the rest of your system is up to it.

Disclosure: I own an Aries 1 Extended with a JMW-12. Also own a HW-19 III / Premier FT3 and a "re-plinthed" TNT-1 / Jelco SA-750D. I own a MS MA-505 arm.

A bit long and rambling....

The Aries 1 is a VERY GOOD table, if you can find one. It will respond well to improvements in other front-end components like a cart or arm. A combination that I've heard that sounds very good is an Aries 1 / JMW arm / AT-OC9ml. I have not heard a Scoutmaster, but general comments here and on other forums seem to suggest that the Aries 1 is the better table.

Aries sound qualities are very dependent on the platter. Comments seem to be that the early platter is better than the solid acrylic one. It is also rumored that the Aries "black knight" (?) model is very good but a bit soft in micro-dynamics. I think that's the black platter on the replinthed TNT and would agree that assessment: smooth and sweet, detailed but just little lacking in dynamic punch.

I have used a MA-505. It's a very good arm. Liked it a lot on the replinthed TNT. A bit dark but that might be a good match for some carts (I was using a Lyra Clavis da Capo). IMO, it's a better arm than the Jelco which I was testing when I got the Aries. I'm currently using a JMW-12 / OC9ml on the Aries 1 Extended.

An Aries 1 with a Graham would be a formidable performer, with the right cartridge. IMO, it would surpass an Aries 1 with a MA-505 arm. Though it's a very good arm, IMO the MS arm just can't keep up with the Graham.

I am very partial to VPI tables and have been a VPI owner for decades. Some important points to consider include VPI's outstanding customer service and their on-going support for pretty much all of their products.

VPI has earned my loyalty over the years.

Bill

I owned an Aries 1 TT for years, and still believe that it is one of the best decks ever designed. The heavy platter/spindle system was a model of mass loaded simplicity. I sold it because I grew to dislike the JMW tonearm; more specifically, to dislike the guesstimation method of adjusting azimuth on the VPI arms. In retrospect, I probably should have sold the arm and re-drilled the plinth for a Graham or something similar.

But to the OP's question - the Systemdek IVe is a pretty good deck, not world class but pretty good. What is it specifically about the Systemdek that you do not like or believe is lacking? Have you tried twealing your deck or changing the cartridge?

There are many, many good decks out there at a variety of price points. If you ask ten guys here you will receive ten different answers. If you are going to spend some serious gelt on a new analog rig, you should probably be able to articulate what you are unhappy with and what you expect to gain by a change. Not to be dismissive, but simply posting that you are looking for "a clear improvement" is too vague for anyone to provide you with a thoughtful and useful response. IMO