SDS or phono stage

I had a Scoutmaster(very nice table for the money) & I did not realize the speed was spot on until I purchased the SDS. I should have purchased a strobe first and saved my money. I am now using a rim drive HRX and the turntable would be useless without the SDS. If I remember correctly the SDS also does some power conditioning but I plug everything into a couple big Equi=Techs so the bottom line is on my Scoutmaster the SDS was not needed.

Add SDS. As others will agree, the SDS is a major upgrade for HW-19 or Scout tables. There is a reason VPI sells the SDS with the high end tables from the get go.

I'm vey familiar with the SDS. I think it would make a huge difference in playback particularly if you get a very good power cord and Stillpoints to use under it. I think you would be astounded at the increased level of performance of your TT.

Thanks all. I did not mention that I use a Transparent Audio Powerbank 8 power conditioner. Will the SDS still have much of an impact in the presence of the Transparent, or is the power conditioner doing essentially what the SDS would do sonically? Thanks again.

The SDS is more of a speed controller than a line conditioner. Mine is plugged into a conditioner. If you own a VPI table and you want to get the performance from it, you must have the sds. Its like an automatic transmission for a car. Just get it. Then, shop for the phono stage.