I recently got an Acoustic Signature after a few years of owning a Scout. I found an original Final Tool and just ordered the new motor, pulley, and belt for it from Germany. Total came in right at $2k. I'm very impressed with the Final Tool, but the basic sound of this table is different than the VPI "house sound." I'd say VPI's sound very organically integrated and are designed to let you focus on the music first and think about audiophile concerns secondarily. The FInal Tool is a bit more analytical sounding, noticeably more revealing, and requires more effort in partnering with preamps and cartridges to fine tune the sound to your preference. Different approaches, both rewarding.
Another VPI or something else for under $2k
I have a max out VPI SSM Ref (rim drive & super platter), it sounds superb in my main system.
I will be moving and want to setup a small analog system. Just bought a PCX modded PS Audio GCPH which I will use as pre/phono. I will be buying my analog used to maximize my return. Want to keep TT/arm budget under $2k, lower is better. I have some spare cartridges (Transfiguration Tempest, Rao something, and a Shure), haven't decided which one to use.
The usual suspects are:
VPI Superscout
Clearaudio Performance CMB (very rare in used market)
Nottingham Space 294 (most likely over $2k)
I want to try something other than VPI if I can, but VPI is most abundant and very proven. Another VPI?
I will be moving and want to setup a small analog system. Just bought a PCX modded PS Audio GCPH which I will use as pre/phono. I will be buying my analog used to maximize my return. Want to keep TT/arm budget under $2k, lower is better. I have some spare cartridges (Transfiguration Tempest, Rao something, and a Shure), haven't decided which one to use.
The usual suspects are:
VPI Superscout
Clearaudio Performance CMB (very rare in used market)
Nottingham Space 294 (most likely over $2k)
I want to try something other than VPI if I can, but VPI is most abundant and very proven. Another VPI?