[Brad]

After having an MMF-9 (on loan)in my system, I got the itch for a better TT.
So, I found a deal on a VPI Scoutmaster with the JMW9 Signature arm and anti-skate.
I had a Dynavector 10x5, so I'm using that for now - planning on going to a Shelter 501 MK2.

Cryoparts set me up with a Zu Xaus phono cable to connect to my preamp.
The preamp is now an Audio Mirror PP1 with built in mm/mc stage.
The amp is NiteShade's 6L6 push-pull, good for about 14wpc, plenty with my 96db speakers.

I spent a LOT more time that I might have otherwise setting it up, cuz I certainly didn't want to break anything.
The 10x5 could use a stylus guard... 

Alignment was not too difficult once I managed to get the cartridge attached.  Setting the stylus force was kind of a pain.
I have not messed with the antiskate or the damping fluid yet.
The whole unipivot thing is kinda wacky though.

I'm pretty happy with the sound right out of the box.
Open, lots of air, good solid bass.  Vocals and guitar have an excellent tone.

I need to find a reasonably priced dustcover for it.
And later think about adding the SDS, and peripheral record clamp.
Funny how one purchase leads to more.....

Cheers

[thegage]

And later think about adding the SDS, and peripheral record clamp.
Funny how one purchase leads to more.....

Cheers

Yeah, VPI has the upgrade-wagon thing figured out.

For me it is a toss-up between which was a more significant upgrade, the SDS or the periphery ring. I had a 19 MK-IV and got the Super Platter first. Its diameter was different enough from the original MK-IV platter that there waas a significant slow-down of speed, so getting the SDS was essential. That said, the later addition of the perihpery ring really stabilized the sound and made everything much more soild, to a greater degree than the SDS--but then my 'table was already plugged into a PS Audio PPP so the power wasn't that "off" to begin with. If you're not having speed issues I would suggest the ring as the next step.

John K.

[BobM]

You could always purchase an inexpensive plastic sheet printer cover (@ $5) to use as a dustcover until you get something nicer looking.

Unipivots are a little loose and wacky when you first experience them. Take some time and get the adjustments right and you should be very happy though. It also takes care when playing records. Be extra careful after that 3rd glass of wine or beer 

Bob

[Brad]

After I showed my wife how the unipivot worked, she told me to take it easy on the beer while playing albums...

Thx for the dustcover idea.
I'll keep an eye out on 'gon in a month or two for accessories.

[twitch54]

Brad,

Congrats ! I went the same route you did, having owned the MMf-9 and two years ago going to the Aries-3.

I have since added SDS, Super Platter and ring. Each, IMO, is a worthwhile addition. The convienence of the SDS to swithch 'speeds on the fly' is another benefit if your Lp collection is nice mix of 33 and 45's !

Oh, as far as a 'plastic sheet' dustcover....... do realize the possibilty of that say catching on the arm and what could happen ???? Not for me, save your pennies for a good acrylic one.

[lofreek]

The super platter is very tempting, but how much you wanna bet they are working on a magnetically assisted bearing, like Clearaudio?

Setting up a unipivot is fraught with frustration, but very rewarding when done correctly.

Another 'tip' about the unipivot - don't lose the red rubber cap. That is one nasty point!

Don't forget to keep the motor shaft and the platter bearing properly lubed. Both are very simple tasks, so don't wait too long.

[Brad]

What do you think about this dustcover?
http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=VPC5003

I have a pretty nasty thump when I turn off the TT motor to swap records.
For now I'm turning the volume all the way down on the preamp, but wondering if there is something else I can do?

I did play a couple of 45s and can see the SDS helping out.

Listened to about 10 album sides last night - best sound I've had in my house (so far  )
The 10x5 is a pretty good match - can't wait to try the Shelter 501-II.

I have also noticed it takes the arm several seconds to drop to the record when I let the cueing lever down.
The 'wobbliness' of the unipivot is still somewhat disconcerting.

Has anyone used the VPI damping fluid?

[Wayner]

The thump you get when you shut off the motor is break-before make arc in the power switch. That problem is usually addressed by manufacturers by putting a .01mfd, 1000volt capacitor across the line and load terminals on the switch. I suprised that VPI has not provided this cheap improvement.

Wayner

[Brad]

One other question - is anyone using a record mat with their VPI?

[TheChairGuy]

One other question - is anyone using a record mat with their VPI?

Yup....a Herbie's Way Excellent mat is always used on top of the VPI (I have the old composite platter on my HW-19 Mk. III)

I've yet to hear a better interface for records (I certainly have not heard them all tho)...tho I'm not sure it does much of a damn for reducing energy transmitted by the motor and bearing into the platter.  It's just a better interface (does not overdamp)

Next best was a homebrew DIY mat made of EAR Isodamp material and about 12 Herbies dots on top.  The EAR material is used on SME turntable platters ranging from US$9,000 to $30,000, so it seems to be pretty good 

John

[Brad]

Found a good deal on a Gingko cover and Cloud 11 platform.....
I like the looks and I think I'll get some sonic benefits from the platform.