Brand new VPI Prime 21 or used Clearaudio Innovation compact

mulveling,

 The Innovation originally had a round belt, but I believe a few years ago ClearAudio changed to a flat belt. My Innovation Compact has the round belt. I asked my dealer if it was worth changing to the flat belt but he really didn't have an opinion. Do you have the flat belt and if so, do you think it is worth the effort. As I understand it, you have to replace the pulley as well as the belt.

 I have a similar system, ARC Ref 5se, Ref Phono 2se and Ref 110 amp. My table is a ClearAudio Innovation compact wood with Universal Arm and Benz Zebra Wood cart. I love the Innovation compact. It is not fiddly like some tables and the Universal is a great arm. The platter floats on a magnetic bearing that helps isolate it from vibration.

I bought my table used as a newbie and have never felt the urge to upgrade. Though I have thought about adding a second arm. I did have a Fosgate Signature phono preamp when I started and later upgraded to the Ref Phono 2se. The Ref 5se and Ref Phono 2se is a killer combo.

  mulveling, Thanks! Both of these look interesting. If I had one complaint about the clearAudio tables it would be the power supply. At this price point I have always felt they should have a higher quality power supply. I quickly browsed the S-Booster website.Do you know the model that would fit the Innovation Compact?

 I have my table sitting on top of a VPI turntable stand filled with sand and sitting on spikes. On top of that is a huge 3 inch thick maple cutting board sitting on  stainless steel cones. The maple cutting board overhangs the stand about a half inch on each side. The stand is very solid, especially with the weight of the sand and cutting board. My dealer has recommended that I use Stillpoints under the table points but I have not tried them yet.