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My impression of VPI Scout

Guys,
I'd like share my impression of VPI Scout player.
I have been looking for a new TT in $1000...1500 range.
Rega P25 and Scout are on my list of contenders.
I was able to audition VPI Scout and Rega P3 tables pretty much in very similar systems. P25 was not available.
I was very obvious that Scout is more neutral and extended on both freq. extremes. Low end was better delineated and rich. I'd say that it also had better, deeper and wider soundstage. Rega sounded more uptight with more confused soundstage. Interesting part was that Rega had more speed and rhythm then scout. I have listened to some rhythmic jazz and Rega always had more drive and better pace. For some reason Scout was too polite and smooth to express ups and downs of musical dance. I was expecting more of PRAT from Scout. I don't know if this was a poor system setup issue of something else.
I'd love to hear from Scout owners (or audio gurus) if you think Scout is more rhythmic player then Rega P25 or P3.
Any comments will be much appreciated.

Thanks
Sergey

PS: I think, Scout had one of Benz Micro Cartridges ( It had M2 written on it ) and Rega had usual Elyse.
gurevise

Showing 1 response by caterham1700

caterham1700
271 posts
 
You've pretty much described the key sonic characteristics of the Scout vs the various Rega turntables.
You can get a bit more extension,authority, staging precision and resolution by carefully addressing the Rega's support and you can get somewhat better pacing and rhythmic drive from the Scout with the optional SDS but neither deck will be fundamentally altered.You could possibly close the gap between them but you'll never make the VPI party down and boogie.
If you thought the P3 was more to your tastes, then the P25 would probably suit your needs much better than the VPI.
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