VPI TT - Scoutmaster, Aries or TNT-Jr?


I am beginning my research into purchasing a TT for my system. I am interested in the VPI TTs, but I'm a little confused about which one would be right for me. The Scoutmaster ($2500), Aries 3 ($2900) and TNT-Jr MK-2 ($2600) are all within my price range, but I'm not sure which would be best suited for my tastes. Can anyone please describe the differences between the three listed tables? My listening will be mostly blues, rock and folk-rock, with a smattering of classical and jazz thrown in as well.

My System:
Zu Druid speakers
Zu Varial ICs
Zu Ibis speaker cables
Supratek Chenin preamp
Gilmore Raven amp
Zero One Mercury CD/HD player
PS Audio Power Plant Premier
Channel Islands XDC-2 power line filter
ait

Showing 1 response by jbaxley

I own a TNT Jr Mk 2 and have listened to the others. The TNTs have a different sound. (There's a picture of my table with the pics of my system.) They give a larger scale presentation of the music, a huge 3d soundstage, which I happen to prefer -- but reasonable ears may differ. The Scout line has been getting all the press in recent years, but I think the current TNT Jr is a sleeper. I listen to different kinds of music and I couldn't say that the table does better with one kind of music than another.

If you decide on a TNT, I strongly suggest having it cut for the HRX motor, which adds to the price but is a very worthwhile upgrade. The SDS is also very worthwhile . . . as you can see it goes up and up . . .