Vector tonearm and static issue?

Hi SirSpeedy. That's interesting about your friend. Wonder what ergonomic issues would force such a move. In my case, I've heard a variety of arms in various sytems and never had a desire to move on from the AT. I loved the AT; hey some of the AT models without question are extraordinary. Then I heard the Vector and I was hooked. It really is a special piece of gear. I hope your friend does like his new arm. And if the VPI arm overcomes whatever those ergo issues were, maybe even though he'll likely give up some sonic benys of the AirTangent, he will be pleased. And that seems to be the bottom line. Best of luck to him.

Hi Tubes108,

I'm curious to know if you are using the Vector on a Basis table, also is it a Model 3? I have heard that there is a special synergy between the vector arms and the basis tables, but I do hear from time to time from folks who use it on other tables. If you wouldn't mind another question, what cartridges have you used with it?

Wow, I've got more questions than a 4 yr old!

Hi SirSpeedy,

I just want to say to you that your prior posts regarding adjustments on the Graham 2.2 have been extremely helpful to me. I haven't quite gotten to playing with the dampening fluid level yet, but thanks to you and 4yanx I have started with the fluid perhaps a little higher than 1/3rd of the way up the square post. I used to be somewhat unimpressed with a Benz Glider I have. But since I've mated it with the 2.2 my opinion has totally changed for the better. Haven't quite got it to the level of performance of the Vector/103R but I've been tweaking that combo for a year now.

Dan ed,thanks!The Vector seems to be a great arm.I will say,with confidence,that the 2.2 can yield shockingly good results,far more so than most owners,or competitors would admit too.You have to go "Hands ON",and really learn the slight voicing options that it offers.Right now I'm set,though if I were to make a change it would likely be the Schroeder REF!!A fascinating design that I would love to hear at some point!!

Hey Dan_ed
Yo; questions are a good thing ask away.

The AirTangent required a very stable turntable. The Basis Debut filled that requirement perfectly with its very effective oil-damped spring suspension. Another benefit of this suspension is that the Debut does not require the use of a fancy or expensive stand to place the 'table on. I have since upgraded to the Debut Vacuum.

My Vector is either a Model 1 or 2. I used a ZYX cartridge, the AQ 7000, and the Benz LP.

Per the synergy you ask about, I have no experience with the Vector on a non-Basis 'table. Though I think the Vector would be an excellent choice on any quality turntable. It is not as though the Vector has certain colorations which require it to be matched with a 'table that is compatible with those colorations. Of course, if one is in the mood to upgrade, it certainly is a bummer that it is difficult to plug and play arms and cartridges into one's system. Hey, how many cartridges will your dealer loan you to eval?

I completely agree with your assessment of the stability of the Basis tables. And the extra mass in the platters and plinths really makes a huge difference in performance. Even the 2001 I used to own seemed to be very tolerant of what it was sitting on.

I'm finding that I really enjoy fiddling with different tonearms and cartridges almost as much as I enjoy the music, but that could be that this is just the eagerness of the uneducated. May wear off someday. The Vector is great in that in provides, IMO, outstanding performance and it is not really a finicky arm to set up and use. For those who like to "set and forget" it may be the perfect tonearm. At the same time if you are willing to mess with the setup you can be rewarded. I have found that I prefer the Vector with less dampening oil than the Basis instructions indicate. I've filled the bath just enough to contact the entire underside of the pivot. Could be compensating for a short-coming in the 103R.

Like I mentioned before, I'm ready to move up the line cartridge wise. Expecially if I can't get this popping issue remedied. Zyx, Shelter and Benz are on my short list. Alas, the local dealer does not carry these, but I might work out demo of a Clearaudio cartridge. I'm leary of going back because the last time I tried to do business with them it took 6 months to get an IC-70 cable from Graham. Fortunately, Bob Graham took care of this for me very soon after contacting him. Bob is another one of the really great guys in the audio world.

I asked about synergy only because if I decide in the future to go to a 3 arm table then I don't think I could get that in a Basis. I know they have a two arm table. I might be able to get A.J. to modify one, but that would probably not be cost effective. On the other hand, I'd like to try a non-suspended table as well. I realize that this design requires a bit more effort regarding a stand but there are lots of good ideas out there for DIY solutions.