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Differences between VPI Prime and Aries 2

I currently have an older VPI Aries 2 turntable with the acrylic platter.  I'm considering trading it in / trading up to a VPI Prime turntable.  The longer I look - the fewer differences I'm seeing.  Both tables can use or come with the JMW tone arm.  The motors are more or less the same too.  I plan to keep my Ortofon 2M black cartridge and use it in a new deck. 

I'm not seeing huge differences to justify the "upgrade" cost.  What am I missing?
t-bon3

Showing 2 responses by pmotz

pmotz
413 posts
 
The primary differences are the aluminum platter, a $1000 upgrade to Aries, and the 3-D printed arm, $1800 (10" arm)  upgrade to Aries.  If you want to do either of those two upgrades then it may be worth it to go with the Prime.  Now if you have the extended Aries which uses the 12" arm then you can't make a direct comparison since the 12" arm will not fit on the Prime, at least without looking very odd.  

pmotz
413 posts
 
T-bon3, the periphery ring will work with the acrylic platter if you have the platter with the rabbet (or notch) in the top outer edge.  I have an Aires Extended with acrylic platter and periphery ring.  To me the periphery ring is mandatory, but is expensive and an option on most or all VPI tables.  The best deal with the Prime is the 3-D arm, if bought separately it would cost more than half the table.  The price I quoted ($1800) is just the arm, the base is extra.  The SDS is another worthy addition, but it to is generally an optional item, i.e., not included in the price of the table.  The nice thing about this site is you can find many of these upgrades at a good price.
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