VPI Classic 3 Upgrades or Move On to Something New


I'm the 2nd owner of a VPI Classic 3, bought here on Audiogon in 2014.  Cartridge is Soundsmith VPI Zephyr.  Considering giving it some new life with a JMW 10-3D Unipivot Tonearm, Signature Feet, and ADS Speed Controller.  Total upgrade cost - $3,950.  

Or...should I go in a new direction and give another turntable a try?  I have no complaints about my current setup, but don't have a frame of reference for what I might be missing out on. 

Budget for a new turntable/cartridge combo is anywhere from $5,000-$10,000. Thoughts? 
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Showing 6 responses by slaw

I've owned a SDS, now an ADS. Wasn't able to compare for SQ. The SDS is easier to use as the ADS fine touch knobs are hard to get speed to hold steady. Both would come off settings made from a week prior by a little.

I have a Roadrunner/Eagle now that I'll soon set up. Hoping this package with the constant speed correction won't be aggrevating.
If you are using the dual pivot upgrade, as am I, I highly recommend my additional upgrade to the dual pivot.

I offer a thin PEET film that is carefully placed  on your dual pivot plate. will reduce noise thus increase clarity.

PM me
Additionally, I have developed a substantial upgrade for VPI owners that currently use their dual pivot 

PM me. I provide a PEEK film, very thin that is peel & stick,.
One of my tts is a VPI Classic 3 Sig SE.

First, the JMW arm is not a 3D arm. If your Classic 3 isn’t a Sig, you’ll need a HRX pulley for the ADS. Best sound then is with 3 belts.The VPIs, sadly have a long history of manufacturing issues, one being S2P distance being off. If other owners haven’t noticed this, I’ve tried to make them aware. The Sig feet will not be a significant upgrade over what you currently have. (A well thought out platform will serve you better for any tt you have/want). Having said that, I’m currently using Stillpoints SS Ultras. Still had to modify the motor cover plate on the underside for these feet to sit equally square. A good mat will be very beneficial. I use two MyMats. I found the dual pivot upgrade to be significant but since it was an afterthought, I’m not sure it will outperform more thoughtfully designed uni- pivot arms.

I have to say, with all of the thought into my VPI, it sounds very good now with my Sussurro MkII. It was a struggle to get there though.