When I bought my VPI it was way up the chain. It is the HW-40 which is direct drive and has the 12" gimbal arm. I have the Ortofon Cadenza Black and cannot be happier with the setup.
VPI turntables
I currently have an Aries Scout with a Soundsmith Carmen 2 cartridge, I'm wondering if I'd hear any improvement going to a Prime with 3D arm or a Super Scout 21 with 10.5 arm or would more improvement be had by changing cartridges. I like the sound now but like most of us I'm always seeking improvement..
I'm using an Ayre phono pre into Pass XP10.
Thanks John