currently own a vpi scout, looking to upgrade

@Islandmandan:

My opinion is that most of the upgrades offered by VPI are overpriced.

Now, ain't THAT the truth!

Upgrade the feet. The difference in the bottom end is not subtle.

Stanley, I assure you my JMW Signature was set up as well as humanly possible, at least by this human. Don't get me wrong, it was a very good sounding set up.

However, the fact that the Garrard 401, and Dynavector 501 (using either Soundsmith retipped XX2MKII or ESCCO modified Zu Denon 103R) is far superior to the best the Scout ever sounded. I understand the brand loyaly to VPI, I felt the same when I was an owner.

In audio, there are many, many ways to skin the proverbial cat, in fact, I find the possibilities mind-boggling, and as with a persons religous preference, I don't care what your preferences are. The longer I'm in audio, the more I find there are many more surprises, and lessons to be learned, waiting for me if I live long enough.

For example, I never thought I'd be happy with a 9 Wpc SET amp, yet I am. Just enjoy the experience, that's the important thing.

Regards,
Dan

Have you considered the Well Tempered Labs Amadeus TT? Talked to other audiophiles and dealers who all concurred that this table is superior to the VPI Classic. I'm going to give this table a try. Maybe worth a audition for you..

Great comments above.

I second Stan's (Stringreen) comment about a cartridge upgrade. I used to own the Delos ... it's a "Tony The Tiger" great cartridge. But I moved up to the Kleos, its bigger brother. IMO, the Kleos is even better.

I also think Mat Weisfeld (VPI) is putting some good options out there for you too. I own an early version basic Classic plinth. I've made a number of incremental upgrades that have noticeably improved its performance, such as a DIY install of the Classic 3 base and wand, a VPI periphery ring and steel record clamp. My next tweak is to install a VPI 300 rpm motor as a DIY project. After that, Bear Paws.