VPI Classic 1 tone arm swap help needed

While the Classic chassis isn't ideal for chasing next level sound, I think it's a "good enough" foundation as a fun,DIY project.

Just like goofing around with an older Rega, but a little closer to $eroiou$ performance?

Just my ears-heard plenty of amazing  and ridiculous over  the  years.

I'm guessing with proper DIY skills and armboard, you can adapt just about any trick arm?

You can get a new table, and it will always sound "better.'

What fun is that if your a tinkerer?

My next table won't be a VPI,  but 'm keeping it for a passion project. I would  imagine as long as your final choice agrees with the solid plinth  design, is what matters?

These 2 would be on my list just for kicks.

https://clearaudio.de/en/products/tonearms-tt5.php

Just looks cool.

https://www.triplanar.com/mk-vii/

The TP has been around, and accepted as a "can't go wrong" choice- IMO.

"now I see you like things so complicated that brain hurts just imagining how that thing works not to mention how to set it up :) me opposite straight lines and less is more ideology..... that's why in trying to muscle in SME IV.vi or better V .... how bad it can be?? "

I get it. I like my Classic  for the traditional looks, and based on 14 years of trouble free use.

As mentioned, you could just get a VPI gimbal as a drop in.

I don't know how much of an SQ "improvement" it is? I'm thinking-meh.

I would reach out you VPI. They might  provide insight on armboard and other info needed to perform a swap?

Off topic, I too am a roadie. Overdue for the retirement rig.

Current one was purchased in 2010 and I'm not yet enjoying wireless shifting and disc  brakes. Anything I want is gonna be over $10K+!!

I’m guessing whatever design chosen, if you can manage to fit something AND keep the original dustcover- that’s a win.

SME is another one of the "can’t go wrong" choices.

Also guessing a 12" could be fitted with some custom AB? Imagination seems to be the only limit for DIY projects.