New VPI purchase

My advice is to first tell us, as someone else already asked, if you have the gimbaled or unipivot arm.  

Second, do not count on getting it set up without an experienced friend or hired gun. 

Third, if unipivot, forget about twisting the nutrik connector wire for anti-skate. It causes more problems than it solves. 

Last, don't overthink it. Get a Riverstone VTF gauge and get ovehang and VTF right and make sure your table is level. After that, setting VTA and AS and twist/alignment are all niceties that will improve sound but the myth that suddenly if you get seven parameters just right including loading the angels will descend from heaven and the musicians will be in the room with you is just that-myth. 

I've had the og Prime with the 2M Black for several years. You will love that table. Pay attention not to set the motor too far from the plinth.  This will strain the belt. Also if you hear clicking when the platter starts don't panic. Some talc on the belt can be useful but not entirely necessary. The VPI video is helpful. Next step is to invest in the outer ring. 

Happy listening.

@travisg Congrats on your new table. I loved (and still love) my VPI Classic 3 even though my primary rig now uses a Clearaudio Innovation Wood. +1 to gjohns and invest in the outer ring when ready. Also consider getting Isoacoustics Gaia II footers for the table and replace the stock feet. They gave me a worthy upgrade in imaging clarity. 

Also, your preferences may differ, but I found that the best mat is no mat. I loved playing records directly on the aluminum platter, especially coupled with the ring clamp. 

Enjoy!

Did you get the uni-pivot arm or the Gimbal. The Gimbal is much easer to setup or so I am told. I have owned VPI since the 90s you will love it. Don't be too quick to judge the sound that cartridge takes awhile to break in.

Have fun