VPI Classic hum

I own VPI classic, the first release from 2010.

Initially the Grado cartridge was installed but it gave a lot of hum
even when the styles did not touch the record surface.
Then the dealer suggested to replace Crado for Benz Micro MC low
output. I chose Benz Micro Wood SL cartridge which was installed and I
use it now.
I still have an issue with the hum. But this time the hum is only when
I place the styles on the record surface and the platter is moving.
When the platter
is not moving and the styles touches the record surface there is no
hum at all. Looks like the cartridge picks up the noise from the
motor.
The hum is quite noticeable during the quite passages, the starting
and ending grooves, the grooves in between the pieces.

Bifwynne,

I emailed Mike from VPI and he responded back saying that the problem should be resolved by proper grounding and using shielded interconnects. I have a ground wire running from the table to phono stage and using JPS Labs ultraconductor interconnects that the dealer confirmed they are very well shielded.
Thanks for reply

After several tests that Mike asked me to do with VPI, he diagnosed the problem. Either the cartridge is picking up electro-magnetic field from the motor or some mechanical vibrations. I've shipped the VPI base unit to him for repair.

Hi All,

I've got a reply from Mike they are going to replace my table with the brand new one. Mike pointed out in his response that "the motor had a eccentricity in the shaft causing it to vibrate more than it should. Probably happened in shipping the first time, very rare when the rotor cracks!!!" Hopefully, I'll get it next week. My original one was in black. I asked Mike to replace it with the walnut one which was not available at the time of my initial purchase. He approved it. So I am in a waiting mode... Keep you posted.

thanks everyone, Alex

Bifwynne,

I asked Mike to explain the word "drey", he replied back that never heard this word before and it might be a typo.

Bifwynne

Thanks for reminding this phrase. As being Jewish I should have known it. I am originally from Russia so know this expression in Russian but did not know its English variation.

VPI sent me a brand new Classic 1 table and it was humming exactly same way as my own. The cartridge picked up the motor noise. VPI exchanged Classic for Aries 3. It arrived last week. NO HUM at all with Aries 3 and the table is just amazing.