VIP, SOTA & Oracle Turntables

I haven't used a SOTA in a long while but the VPI will give you what you want if pared with the right cartridge. The job of the table is to permit the cartridge to do the best possible job; cartridges vary widely in sound and are a very personal choice. An HW 19 or Scout or corresponding SOTA will satisfy you for a long time, I regularly switch between cheaper and more expensive tables, the more expensive are better but the cheaper ones are very good and easily beat out CD. The advantage of the Scout is that it comes with a very good arm. Eliminating the arm board reduces your choice of arm but significantly improves the sound according to what I hear back from 2 well known table manufactures.

I have owned a Sota Sapphire (older model), Vpi Scout,and a VPI HW-19 mk2. In my system I like the HW-19. I listen to all kinds of music. My amp and preamp are tube, my speakers are time aligned first order crossovers.
These together sound the most balanced for the kinds of music I listen to.......

I have a twenty year old Sota Star Sapphire with an upgraded platter and I never get tired of using it. Built like a tank; terrific imaging and image solidity; a pleasure to use and own.

Sota...by a long shot!!

Great design.Well thought out,as to LP accuracy.Great ownership of the company,who will be around for their customers.

Of course so will the other choices,most likely.Yet,from experience the Sota folks are appreciative of their customers.That should mean something,IMO.

Best regards

Just had a small earthquake in LA while my VPI was playing...never skipped a beat!