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VPI Aries Questions

I have a chance to purchase a used Aries with the JMW 10.5" arm for around $3,000. Along with this is the SDS unit and 2 piece cover. I've also been talking with a VPI dealer who has suggested a purchase of the Aries 2 extended with a JMW 12 or 12.5. The cost to me new is about $4600. The $4600 is a bit rich for me, and the $3000 is affordable, but I don't want to make a mistake for the sake of saving money now that I'll regret later.

Any quidance you could provide me regarding all this would be most appreciated. Which arm provides the best sound, is the SDS a critical component, and does the original Aries still perform in the high end or quality range of turntables? Is the Aries 2 a significant improvement over the Aries to warrant the additional $? Unfortunately, I don't have the opportunity to listen to high end equipment in the area I live in, and your help is most appreciated.
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Showing 1 response by mknowles16

mknowles16
101 posts
 
You will likely receive many opinions that contradict mine.

I own the Aries Scout. No cover, no SDS. No problems, nor any need to tweak, adjust, and tweak some more. The dealer from whom I purchased contends the Scout gives a significant portion of the Aries' performance at a small portion of the price. I enjoy the musical reproduction.

You can buy a boatload of albums with the price difference.

In the world of turntables, it is important to remain cognizant of the concept of diminishing returns.

Just my opinion.
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