Rega RP10 vs. VPI Classic Signature

Thanks, Stingreen!

Definitely looking at going with the 3D arm on the Classic Sig.

Having used a Rondo Bronze in the past on a Technoarm, I'm fairly comfy going with another Ortofon. Have you had good results on the VPI with other carts?

TJ: Thanks for the ART9 suggestion. That cart is definitely now on my radar. Have had luck in the past with the AT 155LC MM cart that was recommended to me by Raul.

Just ordered the Classic Sig. Easy to make an expensive mistake with MC carts so I'm still doing my research. Happy to hear about any more recommendations so keep 'em coming!

I had considered taking the route of running a Prime along with my RP10/Apheta 2, but it looks like it'll be the Classic Sig instead. Proper support for both will be important. The RP10 will live on a spiked Lack table until I can get my Target shelf mounted. The VPI will sit on top of a steel Boltz rack.

Swapping the Apheta 2 cart between the turntables will be a fair way to make a comparison. Also considering the ART-9, a Dynavector XX2mkii or an Ortofon offering. I'm running a Zesto Andros phono stage and basically an all-tube rig.

I'm hoping that the performance of the 2 TT's will be comparable, but sonically different enough to warrant keeping both.

Bpoletti - I already have the RP10 and got it at a time when I didn't feel like "tweaking" so I chose it over the VPI. Pricing on the Classic Sig is a bit more attractive now, so I'm making the jump. It may just turn out that the VPI trounces all over the Rega, but ...maybe not. No point in throwing the baby out with the bathwater just yet!

I'll also be putting my Thorens 124/SME 3009 through a rebuild this year, so ultimately there will be a 3rd option.