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.
jcbach

Showing 1 response by objective1

Dunno if you are watching the classifieds.... but there is a VPI TNT 5 HR...with 12.5 and an SDS... 3500$ not for sale by me...but looks like an awesome deal
http://cgi.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cl.pl?anlgtabl&1080612730&2&3&4&

btw i have an aries/10.5 i bought on this site for 2600$ a year ago.. perfect condition in the original packing... i thought it was brand new... love it with my original Koetsu Black