Stringreen, I have been toying with the idea of replacing my SSM with rim drive, Classic platter, and 3D tonearm too. The Avenger is a drop dead gorgeous table. The only advantages to the Avenger I see are that a 12 inch tone arm can be used, and you can install up to 3 tonearms. The downsides to me were that I would have to give up the double motor rim drive, which I really like, the Classic platter with the special oil-pumping bearing Harry had custom made for me, which has improved performance, and that the tonearms do not have plinth area below to better protect the arm and cartridge from possible damage by a careless movement with my hand or arm. I've also done a few more tweaks to my table over the years which has further improved its performance.
I spoke to someone at the meeting I know who very recently traded in his SSM with rim drive and HW TNT platter for an Avenger with magnetic drive. He says he really likes it, but I personally didn't hear anything other than a slightly smoother sound and slightly better bass drive.
I really didn't notice an appreciable difference or improvement with the Avenger versus what I now have. Both are Class A tables. The only advantage I see with the Avenger is that if you want an additional arm or two, maybe one with a dedicated mono cartridge, that it's more convenient than having to swap tone arms.
I found listening to the Avenger, while excellent and beautiful to look at, made me appreciate the performance and sound of my upgraded and tweaked SSM even more. I think the somewhat understated styling of the SSM makes it very attractive in a more utilitarian way. I'm still toying with the idea of going to an Avenger, but have less of an urge than before hearing it. If I were to get it, it would be with the magnetic drive, as the version without it I really didn't hear much of any improvement.
Hope this helps.
