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VPI Classic

I recently purchased a VPI Classic and a Benz Micro Gullwing SLR. I am having a problem with the tonearm. When I play a record the tonearm wobbles back and forth. I had my dealer look at it, and they are not sure what is causing this problem. We looked at two other VPI's and they looked rock solid while playing compared to mine. I have tried calling VPI numerous times to see what they have to say regarding this issue, but have not been able to get through to them on the phone.

I have tried adjusting VTF from 1.9 to 2.1 with no change to the wobble. I have tried adjusting the Azimuth numerous time, and it still wobbles. Does anyone else have this issue? Is this normal? This is my first unipivot, so I am not sure if this is typical.
rick_hilton

Showing 1 response by auxetophone

auxetophone
114 posts
 
I recently had a very similar problem with an Aries 3 and Benz Ace cartridge. Damping fluid did not eliminate the wobble. However, the previous owner had installed a Soundsmith Counter Intuitive. This slips over the counterweight and makes it easy to make small adjustments to VTF and azimuth. In the process it does add some decentralized mass to the arm.

I tried removing this, and now the wobble is history. Apparently it added just enough mass in the wrong place to cause the instability with my particular arm/cartridge.
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