I have the latest Classic I. If you decide on the VPI, consider the OLDER version, which has the ability to hook up the SDS/Phoenix speed controller. Older models have the motors in the front of plinth. A mod by VPI is necessary for a newer model. I imagine just disconnecting the circuitry and a pulley?
Recent models have have a DC supply for circuitry that is a mini regen AC system powering the motor. This helps the motor get a steady voltage,but not PERFECT 33.3.If you want perfect 33.3 RPM, the SDS or Phoenix is needed.
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Helmech,
relative to to the cost of my other components/speakers2-4K retail, I don't believe I would hear a substantial difference in SONICS until I hit next tier of expensive gear:5-10K?
Just every now and then can you hear VERY slight pitch deviation during CRITICAL listening. Otherwise, The Classic is a keeper. If anything, I would like to tweak it with an outboard motor and speed controller and maybe the 3D arm.
I have mine on brass footers with a 4" maple slab.
I make this assessment after hearing plenty of uber show/store rigs.
You probably can find the older Classic for a good deal since its been a few years now since its release.
Spend as much as you can tolerate on the phone stage/LOMC.
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Helomech-
Ive been following this thread.
Your table clearly is deserving of a more substantial phono stage
Personally, I would do a cart as well(LOMC)
IMO , I believe you just can't hear your table at its best without a good outboard phono stage. My preference is tubes, but very nice SS approach tube magic minus the noise some listeners won't ttolerate (high volume listening)
The nicer phono stage also makes an existing cart shine in its best light.
More food for thought.
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"I think the Classic version I ordered has the DC controlled motor you mentioned earlier, so I won't be able to use a Phoenix, though apparently VPI makes something called an ADS speed controller that will work"
Huh? Interesting. I took a quick peek at the specs. Your table has the 300 RPM motor. Does it still have a wall wart you plug into the motor? If it does, then I guess it does have an on board AC regen.
In any case, yes the deviation is subtle. Only when audio nervosa kicks in, we get obsessive about mechanical perfection. I suppose belt wear makes a difference.
I heard the Orto Black. It's a nice MM cart. When I went LOMC, I never looked back.
That ADS appears to just be the "new and improved" SDS. I'm sure it's great, but for the cost, the Phoenix just seems like a better buy.
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Great table choice Helomech,
I'm jealous. That is a great table for the money.
If you get the tweak bug, brass footers and a 4" maple slab are the finishing touches on my Classic. As far as a sonic improvements, I'm not sure if it's just psychological, but it sure looks nicer(i thought the stock feet were the weakpoint)
Consider the Phoenix controller if you haven't yet.
Read the threads on the Audio Technica ART 9. It has reached cult status.
Not cheap($1200) but not ridiculous expensive considering the performance.
I really enjoy mine. It even has HW's approval.
Experienced listeners compare the ART9 with super carts.
I have used other 1K carts-Benz Micro Glider & Sumiko Blackbird. Both excellent carts, but the ART9 is closer to the middle(neutral)
Subjective, like everything else. I don't buy into the "use this cart for this type of music" I haven't read any negative user reviews on the ART9.Fabulous cart!
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Helomech-I misinterpreted your post about your acquisition. I thought you
purchased the Classic SIGNATURE. I see you have regular Classic...
Big difference in specs between the 2. Especially price$$$!!!!
That being the case, you still got a good deal. As MW stated, a nice cart is the way to go with this model.
Regarding phono stage-over time I decided I prefer an all tube presentation in my audio system. I have a out of production Fosgate, version 2. It was a $2.5K retail unit. I purchased mine nearly 4 years ago. The Manley Chinook and Rogue Ares are among the current units in this price point which are very nice. Recently I demoed a Chinook against the Fosgate. The Chinook is quieter, but I thought the Foz had more realistic overall sonics. A little tube hiss at VERY high volume, so not an issue for me. A couple of other units that look interesting especially for the price-Decware and Tavish.
I see you are using your existing amps built in, so I don't know if you have enough gain for LOMC? You can still use a HOMC 2.5mv with a MM output.
Enjoy your new table. FWIW, I use no mat on platter and use a little antiskate.These are 2 issues beaten to death on VPI tables.
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I have only heard the top dog-Strain Gauge and Sussuro Soundsmith carts.They naturally, were amazing. Likely the rest of the line is similar in their price points.
I had the Zephyr in mind when choosing the ART 9. The SS carts are a great match with VPI. At the time, the only reason I chose the ART9 is because I liked the sound of the existing cart-ATOC9III. Figuring the ART9 would improve on the weaknesss of the OC9, it was a gamble that payed off. If I ever get the itch, I would like to try the Aida or Zephyr MIMC.
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Helomech-
Very unfortunate you have problem table. The scraping suggests maybe something on the plinth, hitting underneath the platter? Personally, I don't buy into the break-in thing.If setup/cart selection is good, I either like it or not, and I won't "wait" for something to sound good. As time passes, good sound may develop subtle improvement, but it's there from the start. Surprising you chose "trounced" when comparing tables. I would think simply a different presentation. Trounced suggests comparing a $300 entry level table to a 5K setup.
You did try all 3 pulley steps when checking speed? As previously mentioned, without a controller the speed will only be near 33.3. You are already aware this model needs a mod to use one. Regardless, the Classic should sound good as every review says it is stock.
Give it another chance and return it for another one. Insist AA issue a return label.
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"Update: I took a gamble on an Acoustic Signature Wow XL with their TA-700 tonearm"
Helomech, I'm not familiar with the brand, but a look at their website shows a nice looking table.
Good luck! |
