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VPI Flywheel with Aries Turntable - Help

I recently added the VPI flywheel to my Aries turntable setup (Aries w/ JMW-10, SDS, and Benz-Micro H2O). When using the flywheel, I notice a distinct increase in what sounds like record surface noise (ticks and pops). This occurs at regular intervals. I can only assume it is from the flywheel. I have tried all combinations of grounding the flywheel and tonearm to the AC outlet, my phono preamp grounding post, all to no avail. When I remove the flywheel from the system, things return to normal. Very Strange. Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
cjlundgren
aitchnu
21 posts
 
When I bought my Aries the dealer suggested that I not use the flywheel because it made the unit sound worse. Maybe this is what he meant. I have not had time to experiment on my own. It will be interesting to see if anyone else has any thoughts.
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kennyb
117 posts
 
Definitely give VPI a call. Their customer support is excellent. In the interim, I would suggest that you check to make sure that the mounting surface is level. If it's off you will get noise transmitted from the belt/pulley interface. After doing that, allow things to break in. Leave your table on overnight to see if that helps things. If that doesn't help, then I'd guess that your flywheel might have gotten damaged in shipment.

Please post your resolution to the list. I have been considering the addition of a flywheel to my Aries.

Ken
chazzbo
1,006 posts
 
I have an extended Aries with the bearing upgrade.Not sure if it's the extended nature or the bearing being top of the line or what but a tech who has always pointed me right in the past said that you shouldn't used the flywheel with MY table.I'd call and ask to speak with the head tech and ask what the deal is.If you just have to spend money with them (which is great beacuse they do back their stuff up and are a great company to deal with) get the SDS controller.That's my next move.
rwd
695 posts
 
I agree with all comments above.....it is probably not an electrical but a set up prblem. Gve VPI a call....
franks
150 posts
 
Just a brief followup since the conversation has drifted to order of upgrades and/or which is the most cost effective. I bought my TNT used and it came with the flywheel. It does offer (on the TNT) some sonic benefits but it would have been last on my list to do, if at all. IMHO, the first upgrade and most cost effective for either the TNT or Aries would be the TNT mark 5 platter and bearing (should prob. get the stainless steel clamp too, if you haven't run out of money). Again, let us know how this turns out
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