VPI TNT HRX table - what tonearms?


I just bought, but have not yet picked up, a VPI TNT HRX turntable, which comes with a VPI JMW 12.5 tonearm. I also have a Graham 2.2 arm and a SME IV arm. Assuming I had the proper armboards, would either of these be superior to the JMW? Would other tonearms be superior to the JMW with this table?
Suttlaw
suttlaw

Showing 5 responses by suttlaw

It has been seven years since I started and ended this thread, but I am basically repeating the question. I have been using the JMW 12.5 arm with the TNT HRX version I have (different from normal in that the plinth is solid aluminum plus different weight platters). Has VPI a better arm or someone else one that fits this table?
Thank you for the information. I am now using a ZYX R-1000 Airy2 S cartridge, CAT SL-3 preamp, JL-2 amp. I have a Bent MU MC stepup transformer on order to try with the CAT phono stage.
I didn't realize the HRX was so daunting in regard to changing arms, so I'll probably stick with the JMW for now. (BTW, this is the solid metal plinth/chassis prototype HRX.) I would be interested in Jameswei's comparison with the Graham 2.2 if he ever gets a chance to hear the HRX with the JMW.
I see from the manual I downloaded that I need a 34x21 surface for the table plus dustcover, which is larger than the wall mount stand I have been using (to avoid footfall vibrations from 1st floor wood floor in 100 year old house). If I don't use the optional dust cover (the saga, Raul?), how large a platform to I really need? Any suggestions as to a good stand?
Also, I notice that the JMW doesn't use a din connection tonearm cable (which all of mine are, of course). Any suggestions there?
Has anyone tried changing powercords on the SDS?
Thanks.
Steve
Guys:
Semi is right. I was the lucky one that got the HRX prototype listed on Audiogon yesterday. I woke up early, checked the ads, and voila'. I drove 400 miles roundtrip today and picked it up from a very nice audiophile near St. Louis. He had 20-30 calls about it (including several that offered more than he asked) but sold it to me because I was first to email. You have to applaud a man who honors a commitment like that.
He apparently talks regularly to Harry and Harry mentioned that he is considering producing the all metal chasis model for real because he has been getting a lot of calls for it. However, it is going to be more expensive than the stock model if he does.
This Missouri audiophile has a super system but is disbursing it because he will be homeless (while building a new house) for some time. Steelhead, Meitner DAC/SACD, big ass horn speakers (Avante duos??).
He heard the prototype HRX at the NY Stereophile convention in 2003 and talked Harry into selling it to him. He had the original metal platter and the new vinyl one that Harry sent him. Also the original screw on center clamp and the later weight only one.
He was using standard power cords and a Cardas Golden Reference IC with the unit. He had an extra Cardas which he loaned me to audition to buy. Interestingly enough, we had the same taste in vinyl. Dead jazz guys and gals. Half the LPs I brought to listen, he had.
I can't really comment on the ZYX yet. I only had it in the system for a few records, but it was revealing enough to show bearing noise from my Cosmos. I probably need fluid.
The HRX is too big for my present stand situation. Any suggestions for stands that would work on springy wooden floors. I'm afraid to try and put it on a wall platform like I used for the Cosmos.
I have some BMI Sharks and one Whale Supreme that I will try with the HRX. Anyone have any luck with these?
I liked Jameswei's description/idea of the Ginko dustcover. The VPI one sounds quite awkward, and I wouldn't want to leave a dustcover on the table while playing LPs anyway. Does Ginko make dustcovers in smoky gray?
Suttlaw