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SOTA vacuum or no?

I am considering a new SOTA Sapphire or Nova as a replacement for my VPI Scoutmaster. I am aware of the differences in features between the Sapphire and Nova, but the biggest difference is obviously the presence of the vacuum clamping system present on the Nova. Is it worth it? The price difference between these two SOTA's is about $1400, I think. I am curious as to the reliability of the vacuum system, sonic benefit versus using the SOTA I-clamp or Reflex clamp alone. Also, how easy is the vacuum system to live with? I'd prefer minimal tweaking, if possible. Thanks!
rockinrobin

Showing 4 responses by downunder

downunder
1,329 posts
 
I have been using the VPI outer ring on my rig for 4 years now and it is easy as apple pie to use as it locks onto the platter and will not move unless you lift it off the table. It is easier if you have room next to your table to place the outer ring onto while you are changing record's or a chair or something next to the table. having it around your next IMO is not a great idea.
You would have to be an idiot or plain dum ass lazy to crash the cantilever into the outer ring. It is no more dangerous that no outer ring

That said, there is a certain amount of life,flow or air that not using the outer ring gives to the music. Not sure if that "air" is also missing when you use a vacuum hold??

cheers
downunder
1,329 posts
 
I have never read anywhere where a VPI user has ruined his cantilever by using the outer ring. The point I was trying to make, using the outer ring is as easy and as safe as not using the outer ring on any table.
Rccc, do you own a VPI outer ring??

The outer ring has advantages sonically on some LP's, and the same without. There are no absolutes in this hobby.

I believe some like the "Soundfountain" outer ring is a little more dangerous to use as it just sits on top of the record.
downunder
1,329 posts
 
Yo Speedy

As they say. You are only as old as the girl you are "feeling"

me, my hands are not that steady, so I use that thing called the arm cue. goes and up and down and guess what - safe to use as well. outer ring or no outer ring
downunder
1,329 posts
 
HI Raul

"That was one of my first impresions when ( many years ago ) I try for the very first time the Vacuum hold down record but I learn that that " air " was not a real sound in the recording but most a distortion part with out Vacuum"

How do you know what is part of the recording and what is not?? I hear "air" all the time if i listen to a live band.
There is no vacuum hold down of vinyl when masters are being pressed.

I am not here to argue vacuum or no vacuum hold down.

I would suggest each turntable designer has maximised his design to suit his table. eg no doubt a Basis or SOTA would sound better with vacuum hold than without - otherwise why offer it.
Other designs with no vacuum hold have equally impressive sound.
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