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VPI, Graham, Koetsu advice please

Hopefully there are some experienced agoners out there that can help me figure this out. I use a Well Tempered Amadeus/ Lyra Kleos / Bob's devices step up / Lamm Lp2 - that finally, after many years, betters my modest digital side (Bob's Devices step up did the trick).

Through an unfortunate event, I now also have a VPI TNT 3.5 with Graham 2.2 arm and Koetsu Rosewood Signature and SDS. I set this all up last night and the VPI is dead silent compared with the well tempered's v low yet audible rumble between tracks. But, compared to the Amadeus/Lyra on actual music tracks, the VPI is comes across veiled, a bit congested, plodding, with no bass and no sparkle. And, please know overall I lean towards that tube sound (SET 211, etc).

Both are running thru Bob's SUT and then into a Lamm LP2. The only other difference is the Kimber TAK-H IC between the Amadeus and Bob's vs the hard wired Hovland IC from the Graham to Bob's.

What's going on here? I expected the TNT beast and lush Koetsu to destroy the Amadeus/Lyra. What would be your expectations? Before I move the Lyra onto the VPI, I thought I'd ask you all for suggestions. Thank you
poonbean
jeffb28451
128 posts
 
I had a VPI TNT with a Graham and sold it for the same reasons. That said, I've never owned a Koetsu, so I can only say that what I've read would indicate you're probably getting far less than the Koetsu can offer with that set-up. Assuming your set up, including geometry and loading, are consistent with what the Koetsu wants and there is nothing wrong with the Koetsu, it may just not be a combination that works for you.

You've got a lot of good stuff, but the best sound I was able to get included a Dynavector at the front, which is definitely NOT a Koetsu type of sound.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
Depending on how much the Koetsu was used, it may not be fully broken in. I would also remove the SUT from the system and see if that helps.
bpoletti
1,004 posts
 
It could be a mismatch between the SUT and the Koetsu.
bill_k
671 posts
 
I would bet that Bpoletti is correct and that there is a loading issue or mismatch with your SUT. Suggest that you contact Bob's Devices for their guidance to hopefully resolve the issue.
poonbean OP
39 posts
 
Thanks for the input. I know the Koetsu has plenty of hours on it, so break-in is not the issue. The prior owner had a plethora of set up devices from the typical guides, to a fozgometer, wally tools, digital microscope for setting SRA, etc etc - so I've assumed it's more than spot on, but then again... I'll take out the SUT and see what happens, and I'll also contact Bob. If anything comes to light, I'll post it. Cheers.
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