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turntable upgrade VPI or CLEARAUDIO?

I currently have a Well Tempered Classic V turntable with the graphite arm. I am running a Clearaudio Discovery cartridge into an Accoustec PH1P phono stage.

When playing records, I have the feeling that the Bass and transient attack is "muddy", or slow, and I seem to be missing the pace of the music. I have very good frequency responce, both low and high, but the detail is just not there.

My question is, is it better to look at a VPI TNT, or Clearaudio Reference turntable, to clean up the tempo and pace of my music? I know that I am looking at spending 4-5,000 dollars to make the upgrade(if I can locate a suitable used model here on agon) and I wonder if this would be money well spent.

For reference, here is my system:

Well Tempered Classic V turntable
Accoustec PH1P phono stage
Transparent Ultra Phono cable
Transparent Ultra XL cable, phono to preamp
Krell KAV 300i pre-amp
Transparent Ultra XL cable, preamp to amp
Krell KSA 250 amp
Transparent Super XL cable, amp to speakers
Hales REvelation 3 speakers

Thanks in advance, Brad
bfuehrer
jfrech's avatar
jfrech
1,816 posts
 
The speed is something to check. Cart alignment to. Maybe a new drive belt? Does that table have a speed controller? If not, investigate that. It can have a profound effect.

As far as the cables, the Transparents are great. That isn't causing the muddy bass or slow transients. My opinion here. I use them (Ultra's and Ref XL)

Also, doesn't Well Tempered have a upgrade program? You might try stepping up in their line. From what I've read, that's a good table.
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,381 posts
 
Another thing to try first is isolating the table with something like a Neuance or Sistrum platform under. Many here have been amazed by the improvement in bass clarity and speed from these devices. Cheers,
Spencer
Ag insider logo xs@2x
rauliruegas
13,112 posts
 
Dear Brad: What do you have before this analog gear? Do you already had the Discovery?.
I know well the Discovery and it does not works in the manner that you told, so the problem it is in other place.
I agree with Jfrech about the drive belt and cartridge alignment. The cart alignment it have to be exactly like the Clearaudio advise and the load impedance and VTF too.
About the TT you have to contact with Well Tempered, I agree too that you have a very good TT. Now, the other option is to change the tonearm, this can be important and makes a difference.
BTW, great audio system.
Regards and always enjoy the music.
Raul.
focusedfx's avatar
focusedfx
56 posts
 
Hi,

FWIW, I too own the WT Classic V, in my opinion this is a really awesome table, BUT the arm is a real bear to get set properly--

Perhaps looking at the amount of silicon you have in the arm well and going through all the adjustments is in order.

I just moved and I spent an entire morning setting the arm up again-- I am finally in a range that I am fairly satisfied with, but have a little more tweaking to go.

One thing I find extremely important is to do all the adjustments in minute amounts and let the arm settle in the silicon for about 20 to 30 mins allowing the for stabilization :) then checking, listening and rechecking.

If you don't have a copy of the factory setup manual let me know and I can make a copy and mail it to you if you like.

Happy Listening,

~Fx
caterham1700
271 posts
 
I completely agree with Focusedfx. Arm damping of the Well-Tempereds is absolutely critical for success with these tables.
Neither of your alternative table choices can compete in the qualities of tempo and pacing, with your current WTC when it's properly adjusted and the arm damping matched to your cartridge's compliance.
Detailing should also improve to a degree as a result of arm setup but also care in isolation and resonance management can lead to significant benefits in resolution as well as improved pace,timing & dynamic inflection if a rigid,rapid dissipation/evacuation approach is employed.

Regards,
Ken Lyon
GreaterRanges/Neuance
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