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VPI HW19 MkIII vs. Michell Gyrodec?

Hi all, I've lurked around the forums here but never posted before. Now I have a question!

I'm looking to take my first real foray into the high-end by upgrading basically my whole system. I'm replacing an AR ES-1/Linn Basik/Aurum Beta and I've got it narrowed down to two 'tables. I'd love to hear what you think about each one, and which you'd buy if it was you:

VPI WH-19 MkIII with an AudioQuest PT-9+ and my Aurum Beta (I'll upgrade the cart later!)

or a Michell Gyrodec SE with the venerable RB300 and my Aurum Beta.

I've been able to audition the VPI locally and I definitely preferred to the Nottingham Interspace, plus I live in a loose bulding with plenty of vibration and NO possiblility of a wall shelf, so I need a competent suspension! However, I hear such GOOD things about the Gyro SE. Unfortunately, there isn't a Gyro even remotely close to me so I hear one.

What to do!?

My amp is a Conrad Johnson MV55, interconnect is Audioquest Viper and AQ Type6 speaker cables to Clements 107di's. I haven't yet bought a preamp but am looking at either the JJ 243 which has a nice tube phono stage, or a CJ PV10B with phono stage.

Thanks for any help!
dirtyragamuffin

Showing 5 responses by dirtyragamuffin

dirtyragamuffin OP
213 posts
 
Thanks for the response! I went ahead and ordered a JJ 243 preamp/phono stage today, so that will be part of my system. I forgot to mention, I listed to lots of different music from rock and metal to blues and folk to jazz and sometimes classical or electronic, so verstility is a good thing. The Gyro definitely has the look, but my VPI dealer can get me a VPI with the AQ PT-9 for about $400 less than my Michell dealer can get me the Gyro/RB300...with the money the VPI would save, I could get a very nice interconnect or trad up my Beta to a Virtuoso Wood...but I don't know...somethig about that Gyro! Also the VPI would take about 8 weeks to get in; I could have a Gyro within the week. Hey I'm a patient guy, but my beat-up AR perched atop a rack of tube amps...augh! Killing me! ;)

Ahhhh, what to do!
dirtyragamuffin OP
213 posts
 
Wow, interesting post! I've not yet ordered a turntable because I still can't decide!

I'm confused, though--you're saying a suspended turntable in a high-vibration environment will be worse than a non-suspended turntable that's just letting every vibration get right up to the stylus?
dirtyragamuffin OP
213 posts
 
Bombaywalla, thanks for the clarification, I see what you're saying.

Yes I'd be a newbie at working with suspended 'tables. Not saying I'm not willing to learn (I am, afterall) just saying I haven't done it. I do have a dealer who is well-versed and willing to set-up other turntables besides those he sells (my AR, for instance) so if I went Gyro I'm not so worried. He is the VPI (and Nottingham) dealer so I definitely would not have a problem there.

I'm not expecting a set-and-forget table and am willing to do minor servicing of the table where I am able.

To be honest, I've listened to several sprung table and several with no suspension, and so far have preferred the sound of those with suspension...
dirtyragamuffin OP
213 posts
 
Thanks again everyone for the responses, I really do appreciate it and you've helped me get closer to my decision!

Given my circumstances, I think a suspended turntable would be right for me, and I still have it between the VPI and the Gyro, though my budget has changed slightly and I'll be looking for a used Gyro at this point, or failing that a new VPI as set up by my dealer.

I'd still love to hear any opinions on these 'tables! Sounds like a lot of folks consider them both good choices.
dirtyragamuffin OP
213 posts
 
I ended up with a Gyro SE, just got it yesterday, actually :)

I still need an arm, thinking OL Silver...

Thanks for all the help!
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