@ije I never heard of VAS, or the Nova cartridge. Just checked out that site and will research that option. Looks very interesting. Thanks for the suggestion.
Advice needed on upgrading tonearm for VPI SCOUTMASTER
Greetings all!
I have an older early 90's Scoutmaster turntable with a JMW 9 unipivot tonearm. Not wanting to spend a bundle on a new turntable, I figured that a less expensive upgrade would be to replace the tonearm. The platter and plinth are both sturdy and built like tanks. And the table is in "as new" shape (see virtual system). I contacted VPI to see if an upgrade would be available and if it would be sonically worth considering. They said that "current technology and engineering have improved, with much lower incidence of resonance." I have an older Sonic Frontiers phono preamp that was upgraded by Parts Conexion in Canada. I also have a Benz Micro Glider MC cart with very few hours.
The upgraded JMR 9 unipivot arm with standard wire would cost around $1,300. It would cost a few hundred more for reference wire.
Is upgrading a crazy idea, or should I consider a new table, which I really did not want to consider ($$$). AND, is spending a few more dollars on reference tonearm wire worth it?
Any input would be appreciated. Cheers!
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@stringreen @tonyptony string: I did notice lots of unipivot arms in stock at VPI. Tony, you confirmed they are still available, but going forward with a focus on gimbal arms. That's good. Every time I set my unipivot down on my wax, I always breathe a sigh of relief when it stops dancing and starts tracking. Always seems like an accident waiting to happen. So far, so good. |
When the arm is balanced properly and playing a record, there is no "dance" on my turntable. To stabilize it further, add the 2nd pivot....very inexpensive and an easy install. It's been so long since I didn't have the 2nd pivot I don't really remember the change....but it was worth it....and visually it stabilizes the arm. |
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