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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
rick_hilton OP
38 posts
 
The the rear of the tonearm was wobbling like a bell. The damping fluid seems to have help with that. It will wobble for about 10-20 seconds and then it settles down with very little movement. I am using a salamander rack at the moment, but I think I might try to squeeze my Levinson 331 amplifier on the bottom of the rack for more stability. The rack is rather tall with my table on the top which is quite heavy. Maybe that will help further stabilize my table. All of the heavy components are near the top of the rack.
actusreus
733 posts
 
It does seem rather strange and I never heard of this problem before. I'd still suggest isolating your rack by putting it on an inert, heavy and solid base, and putting the Classic on a maple block. VPI recommends a maple block under its tables and for a reason--the improvement is not subtle. At least for me it wasn't. I would also double check the tonearm for any defects and the VTF and VTA settings, as well as the azimuth. If it was my table, I'd also take the tonearm to the dealer and put it on his Classic at the store to see what happens. If it doesn't wobble, you'll at least know it's not the tonearm.
dcarol
62 posts
 
Quite simply give it back!

I use a VPI Classic with no problems. I had a similar problem though with my older Linn/ Naim ARO. I think the ARO is so lightweight that the swaying effect is going to happen. The 10.5 on the VPI is pretty 'massy' so this shouldn't happen.

GIVE IT BACK!
cajunpepe
254 posts
 
Change the cartridge...
actusreus
733 posts
 
Does anyone use a TT Weights outer ring with the Classic? They have a wide range of rings and prices, which I find more reasonable than the VPI periphery ring. How about clamps and center weights?
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