2. analog
  3. 1376053732

vpi JMW arm lengths

Can the various VPI JMW tonearm wands be used on various bases. I know there are different lengths, such as 9". 10", 10.5" and 12, 12.5, 12.6 1nd 12.7 models. but can you substitute a 12" arm, for instance, on a 10" base? the VPI seems to use similar pivot structures, and you can buy the wands separately, so is it just a matter of putting a 12" wand on a 10" base, or are the actual pivots incompatible? Or, if its possible to do with only some bases or arms, is there a source of which are compatible?
manitunc
bifwynne
2,206 posts
 
No. Even if you could merely plop any wand on a base, you'd royally screw up the P-S distance and overhang.
brf
1,715 posts
 
Yes, you can use any base and any tonearm i.e. you can use a classic base with a 12 inch arm, BUT you will need to reposition the base to the correct S2P distance for EACH arm with varying lengths.

Also, please note that some older bases have a too small of a "dogleg" that will not allow an arm with side weights to clear the vta tower.

I have seen a Classic table with a classic base and a 12.7 wand and the base has to be re-mounted to the extreme edge of the plinth. Not a good look.
bifwynne
2,206 posts
 
Brf is technically correct. But he also confirms what I wrote.

Even assuming you are willing to move the base, it would be helpful if VPI had a kit. For example, I switched out my Classic 1 tone base for the Classic 3 base. VPI sent me a kit with the tools, jigs and templates needed to correctly position the Classic 3 tone base on the regular Classic 1 plinth. Further, they also provided me with a special platform base to cover up the hole in the plinth from the Classic 1 tone arm base.

If this is something you really want to do, call Mike at VPI and ask him if there is a kit. Otherwise, you will be going DIY all the way and you're on your own.

Been there and done it. Call VPI.

Bruce
More to discover