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SDS or phono stage

I have a VPI Scoutmaster with Soundsmith Zephyr Mk II cartridge, jmw memorial arm, a stainless steel vpi record clamp, playing through a Musial Fidelity KW500 integrated amp with on board phono stage. Sounds quite good, but my question is this: would I be better off at this point adding an SDS or an outboard phono stage? Or both? In what order? Thanks!
arsh
brf
1,715 posts
 
Gpgr4blu, that "VPI rep" is wrong. The VPI SDS is a motor controller and is used to turn the motor on and off with a specified power sequence.

The SDS manual states
Both the SDS and the turntable plugged into it may be turned on and off with the SDS's power switch.

Contact VPI if in doubt.
rodman99999
6,171 posts
 
Use the TT's switch and watch voltage display on your powered-up SDS. You'll notice that the drive senses start-up voltage requirement and provides it, then reduces again(your, "specified power sequence"). Just a BTW; I always start the platter and clean my LPs at 45rpm(more torque).
brf
1,715 posts
 
If you use the SDS’s on/off to control the motor, you can use the VPI SDS “run hours” feature to monitor cartridge use.

I've had a SDS in continuous use for 10+ years using the on/off switch w/o any problems.
rodman99999
6,171 posts
 
Good idea, for those that track cartridge/stylus hours.
mcgal
199 posts
 
I use the on/off button on the TT as I find it more convenient to use. I spoke with VPI and they told me that there was no problem doing it that way. VPI says not to have the SDS too close to the TT. When I had it about six inches away it created some hum. I have them about three feet apart now and no hum at all. I have a newer Classic 3 with the motor in the rear which is a pain to change the belt. The SDS makes changing from 33 1/3 to 45 easy with the push of a button.
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