I have the Aries 3 with the Super platter, the ring and the center clamp. I would say all help. At first it was a chore to put on the ring for every LP I played. Now I get used to it. It seems that there is more low level details with the ring. This is my first VPI so I have no experience with other VPI platters. A professional told me the thick platter is not necessary. But every well known TT got a thick platter. How could I not go for it. Isn't that the typical mindset of an "audiophile"?
