Pros / Cons of Vacuum Option - Basis Debut V

The vacuum option is a nice feature. I'd go with it and never look back. I believe that it makes a BIG difference for all records, both new and old. There are no cons of which I am aware.

The only suggestion I'd offer is to put the vacuum unit in a closet or adjacent room, and use a long run of tubing into your listening room. The motor is very quiet, but for a few dollars of tubing, you can completely eliminate it from your room.

I agree with Gthrush1. I recently had my Ovation given the Debut platter/bearing/vacuum upgrade, and it is very much worth it. Playing records with my old Basis clamp and without the vacuum is not nearly as good as with the vacuum--the background is just plain blacker, the soundstage a little better, dynamics better. And he's right, the exhaust from the pump is what causes the noise, just get enough tubing to take it out of earshot (I run mine though a hole in the floor to the basement). Go for it, you won't regret it.

I agree with the above posts. Although the records appear flat, I am sure they are not. I would bet the vacuum would improve your sonics quite a bit.