New VPI


I just received my MusicDirect catalog and noticed a new beltless rim drive from VPI. It looks like an "add on" to any VPI table with an outboard flywheel and is standard on the new VPI Reference Super Scoutmaster TT.
Is this belt-less approach similar to previous approaches to drive the platter? (e.g. idler wheel?)
Any info/guidance would be appreciated.
Thanks
128x128jimmyhaudio

Showing 2 responses by sirspeedy

I don't own a VPI(disclaimer),but have numerous friends who have owned everything from 19.5 to the TNT(very latest),using arms from Immedia,Air Tangent,Graham,and different VPI's,with a host of different "super-cartridges".I am VERY familiar with these products,and the systems housing them.
The different criticisms pertaining to much of the VPI stuff is downright "laughable"!These are well thought out products,and though almost any audio product cannot really be called "neutral",the VPI "tables" come damn close(I'm not referring to the arms)!What is the problem?Are the prices too reasonable?
Just like many other superb tables from Sota(I own a wonderful Cosmos IV,btw),Basis,Immedia,Walker and the host of other fine products,these are fabulous products.Well conceived,and very thoughtfully priced.
Harry W. is a caring and creative designer,and is dead serious about vinyl playback.I've heard his products in "serious" systems,owned by audiophiles who "truly" know how the best LP's "should" sound.....Impressive!!
There is a host of superb tables out there,and the best way to get the absolute max from a front end "vinyl playback system is to stop worrying so much about the relatively small differences between the "better" tables,and spend more time re-thinking the voicings available from the best arm/cartridge combinations.That is where the real "magic" can be found.Hands on,with good vinyl,and "boring as hell" repeat listening,at different settings!Anyone else having a better solution?I'm all ears!-:)
Just my opinion.
BTW,I was recently at a friend who has the very latest TNT/new heavy platter/Titan-i/12.6 arm(soon to be a 12.7)."Magnificent" LP collection(most important of all,actually).
I always scope out his stuff,as they are working,and did notice his belts would sort of "skip/move about" as the platter moved.Like a little jerky motion,as a complete revolution was completed.He is not in the least bit concerned about this,and in truth there was absolutely no indication of any abnormality through listening!!!He has an absolutely "world class" set-up(CJ ART,big Infinity speakers,etc)and a truly great room.If there was the slightest audible problem we would hear it.None,to anyone not having a doggie's hearing!
My apologies to the "contrarians",I'm sure you will find something to criticize!
Best to all