2. analog
  3. 1155614159

MMF-5 vs. VPI HW-19 Jr - old school or new age?

I own an MMF-5 turntable, which I enjoy and generally agree is an excellent value. I have the opportunity to purchase a very lightly used VPI HW-19 Jr., but purchase must be made un-heard. And, unfortunately, sale of the MMF-5 would fund the VPI table purchase, so no direct comparison is possible. The VPI comes without an arm, but with the plinth drilled for a Sumiko MMT arm, which I happen to have in mint condition. Cartridge will be a Benz micro silver, which I like a lot. Should I pull the trigger and dump the Music Hall for the VPI or stick with what I've got? (swap would be about even in terms of money, so not a factor).

My system consists of Sonic Frontiers SFL-1 pre, Myryad MA-120 amp, and AAD 2001 monitors. Cables are mid-grade XLO. I listen primarily to jazz and tend to think if a system can get Miles Davis' horn right, most else will probably be right as well.

Thanks!
balthus

Showing 1 response by bdgregory

bdgregory
1,721 posts
 
I previously owned both tables though not at the same time. The VPI 19jr is better made (ie more solid), and flexible. You'll have a better arm. It is a better sounding table than the MMF-5, but not much better sounding IMO. The plus for the MMF-5 is it's an easy to set up, leave it alone and just play music, vs other tables I've had which require more tweaking. The VPI isn't too bad set up wise compared to suspended tables, but is more effort than the MMF. But that's the cost of the flexibility to choose your arm, etc.

If the $'s are the same it may be worth the move. I replaced my VPI with a Heybrook TT2, which I like much better - YMMV.
More to discover