Original VPI Aries vs VPI classic 3

You don't mention the tonearm you're using, so advice is provisional. Having owned the original Aries with an upgraded JWM 9 Signature arm and having heard the Classic 3, I don't think there's any comparison. You're comparing a good turntable with a near-reference level 'table. Take the money and get the Classic 3!

And please let us all know how you like it.

I have years of experience with the Aries 1 deck and very little w/ the Classic series, but I continue to believe that the original Aries deck (properly rigged) is one of the best kept secrets in the audio world. I still regret selling it, mainly because I got tired of the WAS (wandering azimuth syndrome) w/ the JMW tonearm. If there is a difference compared to the Classic 3 (aside from those related to the tonearm), IMO they are going to be quite minor.

I had a big jump in performance when I added 3 x StillPoints to an original Aries with a JMW-12 arm. I hear more from the Aries / JMW-12 than I ever did on a Classic 3 using the same cart.

And I'm not sure if it's PRAT, but music from the Aries seems to be more fun than the Classic [insert your favorite number here]. Classics seem to be a bit more dry and analytical. But that's just my impression.

I'm using the Jmw-10 tonearm.

I was hoping more people would be in agreement here. Everyone seems to have their own story.