I check with MUSIC DIRECT in Chicago. They have Demos closeouts etc. Also, I bought two used JVC QL50's; and had them sent to me from online. Those motors (Direct Drive) are still ROCK steady since 1978! Shipping is scary if you pay very much; as noted because you are at the mercy of what the person knows and does with Tables. I now have a VPI and I LOVE it. Got it through Amazon with My Amazon card; had (3) three years to pay it off; No Interest! Lots of Credit Cards have promos too. Demoed the Stock JVC QL5/stock cartridge and arm against VPI Classic/SoundSmith Zephyr. Wow that old JVC was closer to the VPI than I would have ever imagined??? $4,000 versus $150; I was sort of wondering in front of my friends how they could be that close, we all heard the same results the five of us. With VPI you need a new motor/belt anything they got it, fix it yourself easy. JVC 1978...well not so much! That is my foray back into Turntables. In the end I decided No interest loan, get the table to last a lifetime, I use it everyday! VPI made the most sense to me because of resale value, upgrades, new and used parts available on the sites. Do not want to get into Chevy is better than Ford is better than Dodge sort of car fight! They are all good or they would not stay in business. The good tables hold their value now. I would use "No Interest" to get a better table/cartridge package. Audio Research gear leads me to believe you are shooting to low to be happy? I also have ARC stuff. I have gone after a " No weak link" approach; so I do not criticize my weak link and my part in putting that weak in there? It makes music more fun, satisfying and enjoyable; how it is supposed to be. B
