VPI TNT MkIII - pluses and minuses?

Coltrane1
I'm considering a used VPI TNT MkIII. The seller says it was produced between '95-'98. I know nothing about VPI tables. What should be the reasonable value of such a VPI table that's reported to be in excellent condition?

Coltrane1
I would recommend an earlier TNT with SDS to a friend any day for $2000-2500 give or take a few hundred based on condition.

You can use it , tweak it, and then sell it for what you paid for it. It has already passed the test of time.

And could the potential performance of the VPI MkIII be exceeded or equaled by current model TT's selling at the market value of the used VPI TNT MkIII?

A $2000 TT setup correctly will sound better than a $5000 set up wrong. This is a learned mechanical process. You also have not told us what tonearm is involved or the other tables.

Good Luck.

Another shout out for a silk thread to replace the rubber belt, but you will need an SDS or equivalent to make that work. The string diameter is very different from the rubber belt diameter and will result in a different speed.

The old MK III platter was very good, for what it was. Far better than the acrylic crap that followed it for a while and some say more dynamic than the old MK IV platter. The MK IV was quieter but dryer sounding. I do agree that the new Classic platter (especially the brand new ceramic coated one) is quieter still with a better sense of background silence and more dynamics and speed stability. You can see it in my system link.

Enjoy,
Bob

I never had a problem with the Super Platter or the Mk5 platter when using the rim drive. I do however; run the rim drive on the stainless steel portion of the Super and MK5 platter. I have since switched to the Classic platter.

I agree that the VPI PLC is garbage and a “real” speed controller is necessary i.e. Walker or a SDS.

The tri-pulley should not be used; it only injects noise into the system.

The 600rpm motor is best when used with the optional flywheel; otherwise the 300rpm is a touch better if going direct to the platter.

Thread drive does offer a sonic benefit, but I would leave this tweak last until you get familiar with the table. The thread drive is a bit finicky to set up.

Hi Brf:
What do you find to be the difference in sound between the Superplatter and the Classic platter?

Firstly, the Super Platter and the TNT Mk5 platter are awesome platters. The Classic platter, to my ears, presents a more lively and dynamic sound. It does an extremely good job at retrieving inner detail. There appears to be more separation between notes in the lower register whereas the Super and MK5 platter present a more singular note. I am not the best at describing the sound difference between two pieces of equipment, but I felt it to be a worthwhile upgrade.