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HELP Rega P-7; VPI Classic 2; Scout 2 or ?

Never posted before on here, although I have been a member for several years. I need some help on deciding betwen TT and Cart. I am looking at replacing my P-3 w/Goldring 1042 with one of the following:

VPI Classic 2 w/DV 20x ( or other?)
VPI Scout 2 w/DV 20x
Rega P-7 w/?
Clearaudio Performance w/?

My set up is as follows:

Pre-amp: McIntosh C-2200 ( using internal phono pre )
Amp: McIntosh MC-300 solid state
Speakers: Vandersteen Quatro Woods
Inteconnects: Nordost Blue Heaven Rev 2
Speaker Wire: Transparent MM(not sure right now)
Power: PS Audio P-500; and two Ultimate outlets.
Stand: Arici (sic) Air suspened.
Digital: Marantz SA 8250

I listen to ALL types of music. So I need something which can handel all types of music. Moreover, since I cannot audition most of these TT due to lack of dealers, I need the communities help. Thanks so much

Bosco
bosco2362
firochromis
18 posts
 
I don't want to confuse you more, but you can also think Michell Gyro/Gyrodec. Very versatile table indeed.

Good luck with your decision. :)
doak
199 posts
 
In this price class the Well Tempered Amadeus stands tall.
I've owned TT/arms costing nearly 3 times the WTA and it is without a doubt the best of the bunch.
bosco2362 OP
5 posts
 
OK guys. I finally pulled the trigger and purchased a VPI Classic 2 w/ring clamp. Also ordered an Ortofon 2M Black, which matches perfrctly with the phono stage in my McIntosh C-2200 pre-amp. I will post my impressions the moment I mount and set up the table. Thanks!
macdadtexas
1,794 posts
 
Congrats Bosco, you are going to love the Classic. My only caveat, is how well shielded is the Ortofon you ordered? The motor being mounted in the plinth means it's not well shielded and you get some hum with unshielded cartridges. I had that problem with the excellent Grado Statement The Reference 1. On Michael Fremmer's recommendation I bought one of the Soundsmith Cartridges (VPI Zephyr, made specifcally for the Classic), and it has been truly a spectacular pairing. Dead quiet, huge soundstage, great detail, and a ton of slam.

Good luck.
headsnappin's avatar
headsnappin
295 posts
 
Grados tend to hum on MANY 'tables, i.e. Linns, Regas, etc. I wouldn't blame the Classic because the Grado hums. I'd be hard pressed to name another cart with the same issues.
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