Linn or VPI

I think the TNT is VERY musical--but I think that has more to do with the cartridge, set-up, and phono stage. I use a tube phono stage with cryo treated NOS tubes. The sound is pretty incredible--just makes you want to listen to music. As for space, YES. The TNT does require a lot of space. I'm using an 18 inch by 30 inch slab of granite to put the unit on. Also, you should be aware that the TNT does require some significant set-up. It's not like most turntables, where you just put them on a shelf/table. While all tables require the critical arm/cartridge alignment, the TNT is almost like a small building project that you do first. It's not that bad. Once you've done one, it's very easy. But the first time you see all the parts for a TNT you'll think you bought a small do it yourself project.

Here I am. I have owned a Linn and liked it very much. However, I am a factory trained Linn set-up guy, so I didn't have to worry so much about set-up and periodic adjustements. Even though the EKOS is an old design, it is still very competitive with the top arms.

That being said, I think I would go for the TNT, as the Linn is getting a little long in the tooth, and can be bettered in the higher price range tables.

I would also recommend a look at the Teres Audio website. They have tables that will compete with anything, at very reasonable prices. I use the Teres 245, and would put it in a shootout with a TNT any day of the week.

I haven't owned the TNT, but I did have an HW-19 jr. I switched to a Linn with Ittok & Lingo for the reason you suggested. I was thrilled with the VPI until I heard the Linn in my system. The dynamics of the VPI are superior to the Linn, but the Linn gives the music much more "life," thus, more musical. I also have a friend who gave up his TNT for a Linn.
That's my opinion. I think it is something you'll have to hear for yourself and decide what you prefer.

If i had to choose between these two tables, there is no doubt in my mind as to which direction i would head in. Personally, i would go for the VPI and never think twice about a Linn. Linn's are EXTREMELY tweaky and need someone that is willing to fidget with the table quite a bit, have very poor isolation from external vibrations, have a tendency to suffer from acoustic feedback when other tables stroll right down the same path unhindered, etc... I am basing this on my past experience with older Linn's from many moons ago, so take that into account.

As others have mentioned, there are several other alternatives to the tables that you are looking at. This is not to say that the VPI is a bad table, only that i think that you might be able to find alternatives that may be more appealing in the long run. I know that Albert likes the Basis / Graham combo and Twl has already commented on the Teres, which seems to be a nice design also. Personally, i am a fan of Sota tables for very specific reasons.

I would take a look at ALL of your options very carefully. With the amount of info and resources that we have nowadays with the internet, one is no longer at the mercy of local dealers trying to "pimp" their products, possibly at your long term expense. Sean
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