VPI Classic or Notthingham Hyperspace?

Hi, I just got the new Classic and really, really like it a lot. I bought the Ortofon A90 cartridge along with it, and the combo is better than any other analog setup I have had.

I've owned the Nottingham Horizon and the Interspace. Both good tables. I don't care for Nottingham arms. I own a Classic and couldn't be happier.

Wendell

let me give you a different perspective.

I have not heard or seen a VPI Classic, but I do own a SSM Ref with rim drive and super platter. VPI is a very direct, immediate, and lively sounding TT, JMW 10 arm (or any JMW arms) is a pain to adjust if you are a perfectionist and want to get azimuth perfect. if you have suspended floor and subject to vibration from foot fall, VPI is not the table for you because JMW arm will rock side to side for seconds every time there is a low bass energy.

I also own a Hyperspace with 12" Anna arm. Hyperspace is dead quiet, the huge platter with graphite mat really lowers the noise floor. the motor noise is never heard, bearing is very precisely milled so platter spins very quietly. in fact, I think Hyperspace is quieter than VPI SSM overall. the arm like many pointed out, could sound a bit soft. but if you couple it with the right cartridge, say a Lyra or Shelter which are known to be fast, dynamic, and a bit lean, you can achieve a superb tonal balance that's hard to be found elsewhere.

take notice the older Anna arm can't adjust azimuth, but you can get around the problem by adding blue tack or weight on either headshell or counterweight.