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Advice on Phono Cables for VPI TT?

Any experience out there for low level phono cables for use on a VPI Aries or TNT? I understand that VPI has a new phono cable made of the same JMW wire. They also speak highly of Kimber TAK copper. Right now I'm temporarily using FMS Zero, with Audio Magic Spellcaster II off and on. I've heard that line level ICs are not really intended for phono, and that I'd get better results with a dedicated phono cable. The JMW doesn't use a DIN connector, so I'd have to order RCA to RCA from either VPI or Kimber. Any advice or recommendations welcome. Thanks.
michaelm704
findoc
35 posts
 
In my experience, the best phono cables for use with VPI tables are silver cables--Bear Labs, Siltech, Kimber, Wireworld should be at the top of your list. Any RCA-RCA cables will do, JMW armbase uses fixed RCA connectors; no DIN or XLR connections possible. Make sure the silver cables have proper shielding though, especially if using an MC cartridge.
metaphysics
192 posts
 
I agree with Findoc, silver is the way to go. I'm currently using Kimber KS-1030 Silver ICs with great success on my Aries/JMW12 combo.
michaelm704 OP
41 posts
 
Thanks to all for the advice. Interesting about the silver recommendation. The Audio Magic Spellcaster IIs are silver. I found that, contrary to the stereotype about silver, the AMs are warm sounding, more so than the FMS, which seem to have more detail that's especially evident with acoustic guitar.
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ivanj
35 posts
 
I have one of these on my Linn and I am pleased with it. Perhaps it is still being offered, just not heavily advertised, as are most cables FMS.
spotdoc
2 posts
 
Interesting that Findoc and Metaphysics have both found success with silver. I had a conversation with Harry Weisfield at the Stereophile show on this very subject and he urged me to stay away from silver cable on my (not yet delivered) Aries/JMW. Perhaps there are other aspects to your systems that are being compensated for or just being complemented by silver that wouldn't necessary apply to other systems?
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