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classic rock lps on VPI

I've detailed in previous posts my dislike for the sound of mediocre recorded rock lps on my VPI Scoutmaster with JMW 10.5i.

I have elicited opinions about a second tt setup with a Thorens TD160 for rock recordings and VPI for the rest. I'm not sure I want to go this way.

So, in an effort to use the VPI for both types of recordings, I've returned to seeking a mod program for the VPI that will allow for pleasant listening to both the rock and the rest of my already excellent sounding lps.

I've had some very excellent suggestions for a second tonearm wand that will be used exclusively for the rock recordings. I can get it either custom wired with Cardas wire, or the standard Discovery cable. At this point I am pointing towards the Cardas, as I've heard its warmer in the mids. I also thought the Discovery cable was a bit closed in on top on my previous JMW 9 tonearm, ie. the Cardas. Any thoughts on this?

As for cartridge, at this point I'm pointing towards either a Sumiko Blue Point Special MkIII, or Denon 103R, possibly modded with wood body. My only concern with the Denon would be low compliance. May not match up well with the 10.5i tonearm? Any suggestions here?

Finally, I've had suggestions for the Mini HR-X feet, adding a bit of spaciousness, warmth, refinement. Any feedback on these?

Thanks, Scott
sns
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Before you do anything else, I'd suggest buying a MintLP Best Tractor made specifically for the VPI and your arm, and following the instructions to set overhang and align the cartridge. The MintLP protractor in designed using a mirror to make alignment very exact by utilizing the parallax effect.

Using it made a significant improvement in my vinyl set-up, and I suspect it could in yours as well.

At $90, it's a relatively inexpensive tweak, and one that will be useful for as long as you own the VPI and the presently installed arm.
sns OP
653 posts
 
Thanks guys for the suggestions.

Viridian, I've heard acrylic may not always be best. I've thought about mats, Herbies or whatever, just wonder whether they will damp sound more than I like.

Dgarrretson, I've thought about a similar move to the springs, Aurios Pro Max under the Bright Star, wonder how that would differ from the springs. I know the springs are cheaper for sure. I will get back with you on the idler arm setup. Yes, I have the thread running on flat area on platter, and I do have sds. I saw your improvement on the SDS, looks very interesting. I also saw your BAM mod for Merlins, I'm running Merlin VSM-MMs with the SBAM, I may want to go there as well.

Tvad, you previously mentioned this tweak, may be very worthwhile, I will definitely check into it.

Alas, it may turn out that all my plans for the VPI may be put on hold, at least in the short run. Just a few minutes ago I was given an opportunty to possibly purchase a mint Thorens TD 124 MK.II at a damn good price. I would use my modded Rega on it, at least in the short run. From the reviews I've seen, this could be the answer for enjoyable listening to rock lps, if not all lps!
sns OP
653 posts
 
Stan, forgot about your post. I know about your dislike for Cardas cables, we differ on this one. I'm also talking about the tonearm cable, not the cable from the junction box to the phono pre.

Thanks for the offer on the Purist cable, I do like Purist, am presently using the Dominus on my digital, and formerly used the Venustas in various places in my system. I have no doubt that what you're saying about the Colossus is true.
stiltskin
499 posts
 
Sns
Personally I loved using Nordost Valhalla this far up the signal chain.
Be aware it takes an incredible long period to burn in tonearm wire using that tiny signal of the cartridge.

Typically Nordost ICs and speaker wire take 350 to 400 solid hours to run in.

Dealers will burn your tonearm wire in for a small fee, worth having it done.

What I'm getting at, if your tonearm wire isn't fully burnt in ,your not hearing all of what your table arm and cartridge can do. And it's not subtle

I found VPI tables in general dark sounding and for sure Cardas wire is dark sounding also, I would imagine the new rim drive have cleaned up the sound.

Using such a revealing wire this far up the signal chain has enormous advantages over most anything else available,

Also using more Nordost wire to your phonostage would be a good idea.

Just make sure it's fully burnt in before making changes within your system.
dgarretson
2,394 posts
 
BTW, one way to see if the thread drive is tensioned correctly is to give the record clamp a clockwise twist while the TT is running. If you hear the thread complain against the motor pulley, then tighten the thread. If tightening doesn't fix it, then you can get there by adding the tensioning pressure roller at the motor pulley.

I doubt the Thorens will get close to the tweaked VPI.
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