FunkFirm makes the 3mm mat for tables without adjustable VTA and it sounds great on my Rega. I suspect that is a compromise and the 5mm mat may be superior. |
Don't do it. You are not going to improve anything over the direct platter and clamp that VPI designed for that table. I have an Aries 2 and tried something similar. It only degraded the sound. I do use a Herbies on my Technics SL1200GR though and it sounds better than the stock mat. |
If you really are looking for an improvement, check the VPI website - in Harry's section.....record weight. The alterations you are considering are not improvements.
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I agree with those who say don't try to improve on the super platter. You might try substituting a center weight for the center clamp and removing the washer--mostly for the convenience of just dropping it on. But that, the super platter and the peripheral weight should be about as good as it gets. |
melm.....for me, the elimination of the SuperPlatter, with the installation of the classic platter was a very substantial improvement. For all those with a spindle weight, go to the VPI website in the Harry section.
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I preferred the Stillpoint puck over the VPI heavyweight. For a 3mm difference in ht, the required turns on the VTA tower would be 3.78 turns (1/32"/turn). |
@pilrem,
I can't really comment on some of your equipment as I've never heard it. I will say this. I own a Classic 3 Sig SE and a Townshend Rock 7. Two completely different TT designs. They both sound better without any sort of weight or clamp and the Funk Firm 5mm mat.
This could change, but right now and for quite a while, this is how I've been enjoying music.
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I have an early VPI Aries Extended (12" JMW Memorial Arm) with a version of the "super platter." So far, all the mats I've tried have degraded sonic quality. I will be testing a sample of the latest VPI mat this week to see how it performs.
I use the supplied screw clamp with the rubber washer around the spindle. I screw the clamp just tight enough to mate the record to the platter surface (light tapping on the record surface sounds hollow into the record is mated to the platter, then it sounds solid.) It is very effective. I have control over the amount of clamping pressure using the screw clamp. The weighted "clamp" provides no variable pressure.
That said, I have heard superior performance using the Stillpoints puck over the weighted options (on a VPI Classic 3). |
Using a clamp...
Think about it. One is really (super) mating the lp to the bearing.....which one is ultimately trying to decouple from. There is some dampening involved, but I've found that an effective mat, without any clamp/weight is a superior way to listen.
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Can't anyone read on this site?..... a substantial improvement can be had with the VPI weight for 20 cents......no kidding.....look at what Harry says on his website.
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@stringreen - I'm interested in following up on your suggestion. Where are Harry's comments you reference? Can't seem to find them on the VPI site. |
bpoletti.....look in VPIforum.com - Index Page - Harry’s Corner....Record Weight. I know it sounds dumb, but I was absolutely shocked at the improvement.
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@stringreen
Thanks for the info. Interesting observation. Glad you provided your $0.20 worth.
So to put the suggestion into context, I'm using an Aries Extended with a threaded spindle and depressed label area. A rubber washer of about 1/16" or so on the base of the spindle in the label area. I use a VPI screw-on stainless clamp. Also have a delrin clamp. The clamps are hollowed out such that only the edge of the clamp is in contact with the record. Are you suggesting possibly placing the coins along the edge of the clamp?
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The suggestion is for a different weight....mine is totally flat on the bottom (no screw down) and heavy..I would eliminate the washer and insert the dimes in its place. also I would experiment at how much or not to screw yours down at all. Experimentation with this stuff is fun. Let all of us know how it goes.
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