2. analog
  3. 1279419777

VPI Classic

I recently purchased a VPI Classic and a Benz Micro Gullwing SLR. I am having a problem with the tonearm. When I play a record the tonearm wobbles back and forth. I had my dealer look at it, and they are not sure what is causing this problem. We looked at two other VPI's and they looked rock solid while playing compared to mine. I have tried calling VPI numerous times to see what they have to say regarding this issue, but have not been able to get through to them on the phone.

I have tried adjusting VTF from 1.9 to 2.1 with no change to the wobble. I have tried adjusting the Azimuth numerous time, and it still wobbles. Does anyone else have this issue? Is this normal? This is my first unipivot, so I am not sure if this is typical.
rick_hilton
Ag insider logo xs@2x
chashas1
596 posts
 
Hi, one thing I don't understand is, why didn't your dealer solve your problem? or go to bat for you?

VPI answers their phones from Tues to Thurs...
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
5,112 posts
 
The tonearm should be rock solid. Something is forcing it to wobble. Make sure that the belt is not twisted or nicked. Also put your hand on the table while it is turning and feel for any vibration such as an out-of-roundness in the platter, or the motor shaft. Don't worry, Harry will make it right.
tobes's avatar
tobes
302 posts
 
Agree with Stringreen, wobbling is most likely caused by the cartridge picking up a signal at it's resonant frequency. That may be the motor, belt, bearing or some external source - or perhaps the cartridge is faulty? Have you tried another?

If the table seems to be running smoothly (motor not excessively vibrating etc) I'd try a different cartridge first.
photon46
1,008 posts
 
Yep, agree with Tobes and Stringreen. When I had a VPI, their unipivot arm was stable with any cartridge I used. If the table is running smoothly, the cartridge suspension is the first thing I'd suspect as the culprit.
More to discover