[kalel]

I have recently purchased a used VPI Super Scoutmaster and I own a Target component rack.  The VPI website indicates a width measurement that did not take into consideration the drive unit for the platter.  So I am looking for suggestions. 

One thought that I have is to get something large enough to support the turntable, granite, maple, or something else, that could go on the top shelf and could also double as an isolation platform.  I have sent inquires to VPI and thetrackingangle.com.  Thank you.

Kalel

[bacobits1]

That is exactly what you have to do. Stack a piece of material on top of the rack.
Use a large piece of maple or granite and isolate that from the main smaller shelf. I had a TT5 rack.
Most 4-5 shelf racks are not large enough for the VPI's.Even the HW19 series.
Racks like Billy Baggs, Steve Blin, may have the larger racks but so are their prices.

D

[TheChairGuy]

Yeah, the VPI's are BIG.....my HW-19 didn't/doesn't fit on the Target rack (mine is an old 3 shelf unit with top measuring about 14 x 18").

But, I bought a 3.5" thick maple black measuring 15 x 20" and the VPI was/is able to fit now.

The SSM is quite long....like 22" from side to side with the 9" arm, so I think you'll need larger than even a 15 x 20" black underneath.  They probably make them larger...I've just never seen them (my local Bed Bath & Beyond has a nice 3" think John Boo's maple block that measures 18 x 18" square...but that won't fit your SSM)

John

[kalel]

Assuming I can get either maple or granite in a size that makes sense, what is preferable and what is best for isolation between the new platform and the Target shelf?  I think that mine is the TT-5.  Thank you.

Kalel

[bacobits1]

Probably Maple, both JCG and myself just changed and have heard positive differences.
John will say the thicker the better 3". I was using a large piece of granite for a long time.
However, I have not tried both together on the rack I just got.
YMMV some people like granite, or say the Ginko bases made for VPI's.
I will not pay $300 or there abouts for a Ginko base.
But I'm cheap and there are many other alternatives.

As for under the platform on the TT5 top shelf, the world is your choice.
Experiment. I use Herbie's Iso Cups with ebony spheres.

Let me add that when I had the TT5 rack I changed the shelves to 2" Butcher Block.
Luckily I had a bunch to cut up to fit so I didn't purchase it. Worked quite well.
The TT5 is a good all around welded rack. I should have stashed it instead of selling.

Den

[kalel]

After speaking with Mike of VPI, I am going to get a 5" maple butcher block platform.  I will then put screws on the bottom ILO spikes or sorbothane.  Since I may get the rim drive at a later date, I am going to use one large piece rather than one for the table and one for the drive unit. 

I found a local wood shop that has a great price relative to the audio stores.  Can't wait. 

Thank you for the feedback.

Kalel