Good, better, best. VPI Classic 1 accessories and upgrades.

I suggest also that you look at the VPI Prime. Also, you might consider a less expensive PSU than the SDS, perhaps the Falcon. The center weight is meant to work with the peripheral weight. If you're not getting the latter, you would be better off with the center clamp.

Thanks for all of this. I can't really consider the prime as it's just not my style. I really like the look of the classic. That said, I will look into whether a version of the SDS is actually include in the classic one construction. There are a few SDS around for sale at a reasonable prices, so that would be an easily attainable upgrade.

The VPI forum is an excellent resource. It looks like HW was actually enjoying ortofon cartridges! I have already picked up my dustcover and a Soundsmith Zephyr to get started....The Ortofon bronze looks like an excellent match for my sonic tastes, but beyond my reach at this point. And, a different thread it all together!

It does look like there are other combinations of speed control that might be equally effective and less expensive.

Go with the sds and the perif ring. I have a vpi classic 3. It has a much bigger sound stage with the sds dialed in (you should also get the gear to check the tt speed). You need the perif ring to flatten the record if you use the center weight.

Thanks for all of this. I can't really consider the prime as it's just not my style. I really like the look of the classic. That said, I will look into whether a version of the SDS is actually include in the classic one construction. There are a few SDS around for sale at a reasonable prices, so that would be an easily attainable upgrade.

The VPI forum is an excellent resource. It looks like HW was actually enjoying ortofon cartridges! I have already picked up my dustcover and a Soundsmith Zephyr to get started....The Ortofon bronze looks like an excellent match for my sonic tastes, but beyond my reach at this point. And, a different thread it all together!

It does look like there are other combinations of speed control that might be equally effective and less expensive.

The nice thing about a VPI is the upgradeability. The bad thing about a VPI is the upgradeability.

You need to understand they ain't cheap, and the better ones are more expensive. The sds, platter and motor are each a grand or more. You need those. Start saving. then the ring & weight. Now the arm. Sweet rig. Good things cost money.