Suggestions for arm to replace VPI 12.7

Stringreen, my VPI TT has a Classic 3 tone arm base and Classic 3 wand. I thought the 3D wand is a simple drop-in on the Classic 3 base. Do you think that is NOT the case?

As to your comments about the Atlas and the Etna, as stated, my VPI Classic is fitted with the Classic 3 tone arm base and Classic 3 SS arm. Do you think those components would be unsuitable for extracting the best attributes out of the Atlas or Etna? Or are you thinking that my ARC PH-8 phono pre might not be up to the challenge.

BIF

The 3D arm is better (to my ears) than is the Classic wand. You will immediately hear an ease that is so beguiling. I personally like that arm to all others...when I switched from a 10.5i to the 3D, I had to buy the whole arm..I was told you can't just plop a 3D on the older base. Who knows..things could have changed. ..on another point...To hear the excellences of those cartridges...the sound colors, the micro mini dynamics, their spacial qualities....you really should have top flight equipment. There are other cartridges that give wonderful presentations...actually others might even choose the less expensive cartridges as their first choice. Fremer did a review of cartridges, and the Ortofon Anna on a Continuum turntable did not come out on top....but this is the fun of it all.

Guys, FWIW, I'd recommend getting the 3D-printed arm before buying a new (upgraded) cartridge. The printed arm is such a significant improvement over the metal arm that it will do a much better job of showing your new cart at its best. In my system, the 3D arm has been one of the best upgrades in the past 20+ years.

I traded my 12.7 arm in to VPI (dealt directly with Harry by E-mail) and got a replacement 3D arm for $1500. I don't know if VPI does this routinely, but it's certainly worth asking.

Bifwynne

Definitely upgrade your phono stage over going up the Lyra ladder.?