Why does the VPI motor thump

I've had a few good turntables. My Thorens never thumped. My Rega always thumped, and my Linn never thumps.

In my opinion, it's a flaw in turntable design. It's easy enough to implement a properly sized capacitor across the on/off switch so that this is never a problem. As a TT Manufacurer, VPI is aware of the thump potential and should design their tables to never thump.

Just another reason why to me VPI always see,s like a work in progress.

Before flipping the side of an LP I always turned volume down to 0, flip side, drop needle, turn volume up. I have never experienced any thumps with my Regas - P5, P7, and current P9.

Try plugging in the power cord on the VPI into one of those power strips with an on and off switch and turn the power on with the switch. If the thump goes away then you will know it is a bad switch on the VPI! I replaced the switch on mine with a heavy duty toggle and never had the problem again. It's worth a try.

Is there a material that can shield from the magnetic field?
I would buy another capacitor from radio shack if I knew what type and size to get. Does anyone have any info on that?

Try a .047uF/630V. LL shoot me a PM and Ill put one in the mail to you, its a 25c part.

BTW ANY power switch on ANY component will make a thump in the system if not by passed with a capacitor, its not only a VPI issue.

Best of luck

Peter