VPI Aries versus VPI Classic

I had an Aries I, with the 10.5 arm, and replaced it with a Classic, and have never looked back.

My Aries was very bright compared to the Clearaudio Performance Magnum it replaced, and the VPI Classic which I now have. Not a contest, it lacked weight in the midrange, and with my gear some music just seemed to screetch.

I had several cartridges that I used:

Sumiko Blackbird, Grado Statement Reference 1, Benz Micro Glider

used the phono preamp in my Cary SLP98p F-1, and when needed a step up transformer from Graham Slee. I also was auditioning other phono stages in this time frame, included Cary Audio PH II, several ARC's, the Graham Slee's, PS Audio GCPH (modded, what I kept), Bryston, etc...

Also, I always used the MintLP set up for the cartridges, very accurate, and fairly easy to use. So unless there was just some inherent problem with the arm, or wiring, it sounded bright. I don't know what your experiences have been, but that was mine.

Oh, and the table sat on a specific for that model, Ginko Audio isolation platform. The Clearaudio was to my ear, a much better table all around. I love the Classic, after overcoming the inherent problem of hum that accompanies an integrated motor assembly with a well shielded cartridge (Soundsmith), it's been a great table, that I am not looking to replace.