Your Opinions Please Regarding VPI TT's

The Aries is always a great choice, but you then have to play with what it sits on.

The HW19 is a great turntable, and upgrading the platter to a MK III or IV sure beats what's on the Scout now. I would think about the MK III platter and a JMW arm to replace the AQ.

Just an aside, a friend had both a Mk III version and a MK IV version and preferred the III for musicality. He thought the IV was a bit more analytical to his ears. Don't know myself.

Enjoy,
Bob

Thanks for the info. I am also considering the Rega Planar 9 which is also in the price range of the Aries. It will be the most expensive, but may also be the best option. I am scared of upgrades in general and think that if I have to spend 1000 to get to an MK IV, why not just buy a new TT (Aries, Planar 9) and sell my jr. Very confused....

I have never used the VPI stuff but have used Rega and am a current Audio Note owner (typical suspended belt drive bopuncy thing that sounds fine). Were I in the market for another table VPI would be at the top of the list for the following reasons that have nothing to do with VPI making an excellent turntable.
a) They've been around a long time;
b) They support older products with upgrade policies;
c) Logical progression from one product to the next;
d) Made in America. Do your part for the trade deficit.

There are so many "good" turntables it comes down to a matter of budget (primary), personal taste, and the arm/cartridge synergy which may be the most important thing.

If the cost of the upgrade seems fair then there is a lot to be said for just dealing with VPI and sticking with what you know.