2. analog
  3. 1218590901

Weird issue with my VPI... please help

I have a VPI Scoutmaster with a Shelter 501 MKII cartridge.

This is fairly new, so cartridge has maybe 40 hours on it.

Imagine a graphic EQ where you pushed the lowest band up full... and did the same to one other band in the upper midrange... and that's what it sounds like.

I thought it was something else in the playback chain, but I've isolated it to the turntable (switched phono stages to be sure). Other sources play fine so it's not the preamp or speakers etc.

Any ideas? I don't know if it's always been like this because when I first got the turntable I had some serious speaker issues where I couldn't hear the difference between any electronics (had a very muddy sound). Now that I have that cleared up (CDs sound great) I can hear the difference between different preamps etc... so I finally sit down to hear what my new vinyl collection actually sounds like... only to find out I have a problem of sorts.

The cartridge was setup by Elusivedisc.com where I bought the turntable.

Any help much appreciated!
madfloyd

Showing 2 responses by islandmandan

Ag insider logo xs@2x
islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
I'm thinking it's something in the set-up of the cartridge. Being set up, and then shipped, something could easily have gotten out of whack. It's a good and rewarding thing to learn proper set-up, and not that difficult to do, with the right tools. I, as well as a growing number of members, have found the Mintlp BestTractor to be the most precise tool to use for cartridge/arm effective length, and overhang. They are only about $95, though ti is made specifically for the table/arm you order it for.

I wouldn't want to give up on what may be a good cartridge without knowing the set-up is right first. JMHO

Good luck,

Dan
Ag insider logo xs@2x
islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
Dynavector does work very well in the signature arm. Not bright, but well balanced (amazing with those high-rez 45 lp's). You might consider getting another cartridge, something fairly inexpensive yet good, to see if that takes care of the problem. It's good to have a spare cartridge around, too. I happen to have Fremer's set-up disc, and I'm through with it now. Send me an email, and we can probably work something out, if you like. Best of luck, Dan
More to discover