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MMF-7 or VPI Traveler

Hello all - looking for any input on my current decision. I'm running an original MMF-7 w Grado Sonata right now and have been thinking that would be my rig until I got together the funds for a VPI Classic. But I've also been feeling lately like this tt is the weak link in my chain... and in my endless bartering and trading I've recently come into a DV 20x2... AND there is a pristine VPI traveler available close to me w V2 tonearm for a very nice price (675). I'm imagining that once I sold the mmf-7 and the project speed box I have with it I'd only be out about 150 or so on the VPI, so the money is not a big concern for me. It more boils down to the effort. Two hour round trip drive to get VPI and then the hassle of selling the mh and packing and shipping it.

So obviously I'm looking for input from people w experience of both tables. I only want to do this if the VPI is going to be a significant step up, and there are arguments pro and con to be found on the web depending on who you read. Fremer is a big proponent of the vpi and though I try not to be too swayed by the stereophile congnoscenti I usually find I agree with his opinions.

Anyway - any thoughts are appreciated. 

davelarz
8 responses Add your response
kiko65
279 posts
 
Looks more like a side step to me. That said, DV carts match very well with VPI turntables......and Rega turntables (the new P3 is universally recognized as the #1 choice at this price range).  Is the 20X2 L or H output? What phono pre are you using? A better phono pre to match your recently acquired 20X2 may be all you need. The DV P-75 is an almighty bargain that matches extremely well with you DV cart. My 2 cents :-)
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
As an owner of a VPI Traveler V2, I think you would find this TT a big step up from your current MMF-7.  

It was for me.  My Traveler replaced a Pro-ject 5.1SE which was more similar to your Music Hall than different.  And while I enjoyed the Pro-ject, the VPI makes it feel like a plastic toy.  And the VPI really unleashed the music too with the same cartridge that I took from the Pro-ject, an Ortofon Rondo Blue.  So your DV 20x2 would be a great match for the Travelers 10" tonearm.  I am now going into my second year of flawless operation with the Traveler.

This entry level VPI has firmly put be in their camp and I doubt I would ever go back to a Music Hall/Pro-ject turntable.  Further up the VPI line though, you bet!
mb1audio
151 posts
 
The VPI is a better TT. The DV is also a very good match, but you need to know if its the high or low output version. I have the low output version myself, and I would definitely buy it again. If your phono pre only works with high out carts, you'll need to replace it or get an SUT. Keep the speed control and use it on the VPI
davelarz OP
43 posts
 
Well, so I'm proud (and maybe a little ashamed?) to say that I impulse bought a VPI Classic this morning. Soundstage Direct had a crazy deal on a new old stock Classic 1, about $600 less than I ever see them going used, and adding in that it's essentially a new model and they will professionally install the 20x2 for me, well... I couldn't resist. I, ah, have to sell some stuff now. I'm sure you all know the feeling. But I'm excited. I got the LOMC 20x2 btw - my phono pre is a Black Cube SE ii. Have a feeling that this whole package with the Classic is going to blow me away. Thanks for all of your responses.
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,778 posts
 
Good luck. Let us know how it sounds.
chayro
2,989 posts
 
I think you were smart in investing in a real upgrade rather than the endless sidesteps some people do - basically trading one mediocre piece of gear for another.  I understand that some derive more pleasure from fooling around with something new than actually listening to music, and everyone is free to enjoy in their own way.  That being said, my experience has been that when you stretch a bit and get something that's truly better, you spend more time listening and less time thinking about what you're going to replace it with.  So have fun and enjoy your new TT.  
mr_m
1,900 posts
 
daveiarz. Near the bottom of your original post, you said you generally agree with Stereophile's Michael Fremer. It's probably a good thing you did cuzz a fellow audiophile in another blog didn't agree with him. Fremer angrily told this gentlemen to go "f__k himself.....
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