Which new VPI Turntable?

it's not even close, I am surprised that VPI continues to sell the Scout. I have had both, and the Aries as well and the Classic is a much better table. Quieter, faster, better extension. I don't even have an isolation platform under the Classic as I did my other VPI tables, and it still sound better.

Enjoy.

I'm confused on the aluminum/SS arm? Mine came with the aluminum arm standard, and when I asked VPI about sub-ing the SS arm they said that was only needed, or recommended for heavier cartridges, and I should stick with the aluminum arm. But now I read that the new ones come with the SS arm??

BTW - once again I repeat, in the last year I owned an Aries I/10.5/original heavy platter, and a Scoutmaster Signature (both got the excellent Gingko platforms which helped) and neither could match the Classic in any way. The only reason I got the Classic was I decided to try something different from my Clearaudio Performance (great DECK!!) amd was very disappointed in both the Aries and the Scoutmaster in comparison. After all of the great reviews I bought the Classic (skeptically after my experience with the other VPI's) and I was shocked, it's a great, great table. I am an equipment junkie, always looking to trade out, but the Classic is going to be here for quit a long time.

if you have a good power conditioner I don't think the SDS makes a big difference. Since you are 220, I am guessing Europe? I tried a million power conditioners because the grid near me (suburban Houston) was underbuilt, and not good. I found the APC S15 (not sure what is comparable for you) to be by far the best at keeping the current constant. I sold my SDS after I bought the APC.

Good luck, enjoy, I love mine.

the SDS is more a voltage regulator. It is a MUST on the Scout/Scoutmaster/AriesIII/HRX because of the motor. That is my experience. With the Classic it was never an issue, but I always had the APC on with in the system, so that could be the determinite.

The APC does filtration, conditioning, voltage regulation, and backs up the power with a batter as well for easy shut down if the power goes off. It made a HUGE difference in my system the day I put it in, I really couldn't believe the difference. I have never had any other power components effect sound, really at all. This made a huge difference, and they are not expensive at all. If they are available for your country's system, consider replacing the Shuyunta as I did. I also had Richard Gray, Panamax, Monster Power, several PS Audio's (not the new Power Plant Primier though, which I have heard is great).

Good luck and enjoy the new deck.

PS - if you happen to be in the south of France, or Tuscany I will come help you set up, even if you don't need it!!