I briefly compared the VPI to the AS Wood (large platter version) app 2 years ago. This is the more expensive wood bodied AS, but it's still cheaper than the Final Tool. Both the VPI and AS were clearly very good 'tables and the demos were in different systems so truly meaningful conclusions may be hard to come by, but...
I don't love the VPI arm. The AS Wood is designed for Rega mount only - so it's limited in this regard - but I personally much prefer the Rega arm. YMMV.
The AS is a monster. For a mass loaded design this is not trivial. The platter, motor, controller, and plinth are all very impressive at the price point - although the falling dollar has, no doubt, evened the field some over the last 2 years. (My 'table in gloss black w/ Rega RB300, Ortofon HOMC, record weight, and electronic controller was app $2500.)
As you may have guessed, I ended up with the AS and I have been very satisfied.
Note: I also use an Oracle/Graham 2.2 w/Nightingale in the same system. When I recently subbed a Lyra Dorian for the supplied Ortofon, the performance gap between these 2 decks became IMHO pretty narrow.
No knock on the VPI - My guess is that those who prefer that arm will probably be very happy with the VPI system - but, my experience with the AS leads me to believe that it is (or at least was) a truly great value.
Good Luck,
Marty
I don't love the VPI arm. The AS Wood is designed for Rega mount only - so it's limited in this regard - but I personally much prefer the Rega arm. YMMV.
The AS is a monster. For a mass loaded design this is not trivial. The platter, motor, controller, and plinth are all very impressive at the price point - although the falling dollar has, no doubt, evened the field some over the last 2 years. (My 'table in gloss black w/ Rega RB300, Ortofon HOMC, record weight, and electronic controller was app $2500.)
As you may have guessed, I ended up with the AS and I have been very satisfied.
Note: I also use an Oracle/Graham 2.2 w/Nightingale in the same system. When I recently subbed a Lyra Dorian for the supplied Ortofon, the performance gap between these 2 decks became IMHO pretty narrow.
No knock on the VPI - My guess is that those who prefer that arm will probably be very happy with the VPI system - but, my experience with the AS leads me to believe that it is (or at least was) a truly great value.
Good Luck,
Marty