Anyone NOT like the sound of VPI?

I have a nice budget set up with a scoutmaster TT and a stock JMW 9. No problems with low bass. I'm using a dynavector 20XL and a Sutherland Ph3D phono pre.

Wow... so much info. You guys definitely give me hope. I know that the dealer who setup my tt the other day chose the heaviest VTF possible (2.0). I don't have any turntable tools; I need to invest in some.

So, trying to summarize what I've learned from you guys:

- VPI is not known for anemic bass; something in my cartridge or setup must be the culprit.

- A wall shelf may not make that much difference, but that the MDF platform that my TT is sitting on is not ideal and I should get a maple platform of some kind (even if it sits on the MDF platform?)

- Lowering the tonearm so that at the base it is lower than the cartridge will help bass

- I can even increase the VTF so that it goes beyond the recommended value for my cartridge (2.0) and increase bass.

I still haven't figured out what SDS is - can someone enlighten me?

Thanks for all the speaker tips.

Madfloyd, just Google "VPI SDS" and check it out. The third hit will take you to Audiophilia's review after it's release.

Be careful, these adjustments aren't "tone controls", wrong adjustments affect the sound in various ways, not as consistent as you seem to assume they are. You'll soon find out in what way the adjustments are affecting the sound.

Madfloyd,
SDS is a box that plugs between the ac cord and the wall. It helps keep speed consistently at 33.33 or 45rpm. Walker Audio's Motor Controller is a competing product that does the same thing.
Although that might improve your overall sound to some degree(and probably will), it doesn't address your problem. Fix that first.

Your other learnings in your last post as basically correct. Try reading the turntable setup tips on walkeraudio.com. They will help you. Cheers,
Spencer