VPI Hw-19 Jr. Thoughts?


I currently have a Rega P5 w/Exakt cartridge and I'm thinking about upgrading. I've seen a few VPI Hw-19 tables on Ebay that are inexpensive enough that I could potentially splurge on a nice tonearm and cartridge (say about $2-2.5k for both). Can the Hw-19 be considered an upgrade from what I have now or should I look at one of the newer offerings from VPI? I'm looking to spend up to $4k.

FWIW, the rest of my system is:

Magnepan 1.6QR
McIntoash MAC6700
Apple Mac Mini
Marantz SA8260 SACD player
roninva

Showing 1 response by bpoletti

I have a HW-19 III and there is no comparison between it and a Jr. The Jr. is really an entry level table, the 19 III is a huge step up. Pretty much everything is different except the motor and outer frame.

I've seen several Jr.s for sale on eBay that are called IIIs but they are not. A III has a black platter about 1" thick and a separate armboard that mounts to a stainless steel subchassis.

The Jr. has an "white" acrylic platter and one-piece MDF chassis. The sonic differences are pretty big. Since the outer case is the same as the III, sometimes the model ID on back might say HW-19 Mk III but they are not.

There is also a HW-19 IV that uses an original TNT platter and bearing. They are quickly spotted because the platter is about 1 1/2" think. Same motor and chassis / subchassis as a III. The HW-19 IV is an outstanding table worthy of a very good arm and cartridge.

There are HW-19 IIIs with nice arms for sale at around $800 - $1000. Great bang for teh buck. Just make sure you're getting a genuine HW-19 III and not a Jr.

Jr.s should go for around $600 but they are often misrepresented at the higher price.

HW-19 IVs are available but are in the nice price range up. IMO, they are often one of the best buys in used equipment.

Be forewarned that these are all sprung tables. Care must be taken in set-up.