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Sota Eclipse packages for VPI tables.

My VPI PLC died a few months back. I’ve since upgraded the motor to the 300 RPM motor, but have been looking to replace the PLC. Even used, the SDS and ADS are quite pricy and the reviews are mixed at best, especially with the ADS.

I ran across the Sota offering, which includes a DC motor and speed controller. It costs roughly the same as a used SDS. There’s also an optional tachometer .

Has anyone done this upgrade to a VPI or other non Sota tables? How did it work out for you?

Thanks for your consideration.
vinylzone

Showing 6 responses by lewm

lewm
12,531 posts
 

The SOTA ensemble will transform your VPI, and you can keep it if later you upgrade to a better VPI.

But I don’t think the SOTA motor is totally free of cogging bc it is not coreless so far as I know. Don’t worry about it at all.

lewm
12,531 posts
 

Unless the VPI platter has the same mass and distribution of mass that is characteristic of Clearaudio platters with the mag lev feature, I would be very cautious about making such a big change to the bearings of the VPI. Anyway, there is probably nothing wrong with VPI bearings. And mag lev is a potential can of worms. What is the evidence that Clearaudio bearings per se are "much quieter" than VPI bearings?

lewm
12,531 posts
 
The Walker is akin to the Eagle without the RR, except the Eagle has more power by far. And I suppose there are other differences in favor of the Eagle. I used a Walker for years before the Eagle, and it definitely is beneficial. You need to be sure it can deliver the Watts that the particular motor requires.
lewm
12,531 posts
 
"The inertia of the table should negate the need for constant correction."Famous last words. I realize bucks is bucks, but if it is a choice between spending $350 more for a cartridge or tonearm vs buying the Roadrunner, I can only advise you to buy the RR and wait on the cartridge or tonearm upgrade.  Whenever you do purchase the RR, try it with vs without in order to determine whether the theory of inertia holds water. Anyway, you're going in a good direction, IMO. And I wish you the best.
lewm
12,531 posts
 
I strongly suggest springing for the RR up front. In order to reap the full benefits.
lewm
12,531 posts
 
OP, are you saying the complete Eclipse package new costs the same or less than a used SDS? If so I’m very surprised and it’s a no-brainer in favor of Eclipse. I use the antecedent Phoenix Engineering controller on my Lenco, and it’s a big upgrade.
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