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Anyone NOT like the sound of VPI?

I'm wondering if I'm just not a VPI guy. Bought a Scoutmaster with signature JMW arm and a Shelter 501 MKII cartridge. This was after buying a Rega P3-24 with an Elys II cartridge. Thought the Rega was very dark sounding (at least with that cartridge).

The VPI sounded unnatural to me (no midbass whatsoever). Thought it was a bad cartridge, but recently heard a Scout (with signature arm) equipped with a Dynavector cartridge. This was on a system at a retailer where I was auditioning speakers and I didn't think it sounded much different from what I have at home.

While I hate overdone midbass, I certainly miss it if it's absent. I'm wondering if I'm just not a VPI guy and should try something else - maybe a Rega (P5?) with a different cartridge...

madfloyd
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
5,112 posts
 
For a temporary fix, go to Home Depot and get some Moretite. Take a blob of it and put it under the headshell. Adjust the VTF and see what happens
sns
653 posts
 
I should also mention I had the previous iteration of the Pro-ject Tube Box with a Rega P25. I thought the bass was somewhat lightweight with that setup. Knowing what I know now, perhaps it wasn't the Rega, rather the Tube Box that was holding back the bass. Just something to think about.
madfloyd OP
411 posts
 
Well I used the Project when I had the Rega P3-24 and there was plenty of bass. I also tried the VPI with an Aesthetix Rhea and there wasn't much bass, but the Rhea wasn't functioning properly so I didn't want to mention it before.

Thanks for the tip about VPI selling the Dynavector. I'll call them on Tuesday.
sbrown
148 posts
 
Yes, can't stand'em
learsfool
1,206 posts
 
Johnnyb53, I would say that the problems you heard in the set-up you described are almost certainly due to either the amp or speakers, not the table and cartridge. I love the Rega tables, but I was very underwhelmed by their amps and speakers.

Madfloyd, I would certainly vouch for the P5/Exact 2 combo, especially if you also get the separate power supply. I am very happy with that set up.
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