VPI upgrade?

I have the exact same turntable and cartridge...Scout 1.1 w/ 2M Black, and have enjoyed since I bought it 1 yr used.

I have the itch to make some changes as well, but really do not know enough about attempting to align a cartridge on it and complete setup. I only have the paper template alignment jig, and really should consider buying the real thing.

MY initial upgrade will most likely be a phono preamp, as I'm using my Yamaha RX-A1030 receiver using its internal phono preamp. Once that is done I'll then have some flexibility as to direction for cartridge. 

Chris

With all the different motors, motor capacitors, motor housings, tonearm bases, various tonearm wands (including wire & junction box wire), platter materials, platter machining, footers (rubber tipped cones?!) to mention a few variables, I have no idea what a Scout 1.1 is.

Sort of makes it difficult to make an educated suggestion. Having said that, I think any Scout with the right assembly of parts is capable of tremendous performance and is a favorite of mine with a complimentary cartridge.

For a blind recommendation, the front motor position Classic variants seem to be consistently good.

For a blind recommendation, the front motor position Classic variants seem to be consistently good.

One exception, “Oh! You got one of those?!” I have run across a few very early (single shipping carton) Classics where the delrin tonearm base riser was too tall preventing proper arm height w/o a cartridge spacer - something you never want with their unipivot. Just swap the 3/4” delrin spacer for a 1/2” 👍

@mijostyn 

so if I upgrade to one of the Gimbal tone arms what am I getting? Direct swap meaning it fits? thanks 

You are getting an arm that is easier to use. Is more likely to maintain it's setting and has bass that is has more punch and definition. A good gimbal bearing will operate well for a lifetime. I hear of VPI tonearm owners replacing bearing needles all the time. I believe but am not 100 sure that VPI's gimbal arm has the same dimensions and will mount in the same pattern. You need to call and ask to make sure. Have your serial numbers handy. Good place to start. Next I would do the Isolation platform and finally the cartridge. I highly recommend the Soundsmith Voice and Sussurro, There are painfully few cartridges that will outperform them. I have the new Hyperion MR coming and I will remark on it.