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Upgrade Opinions, Thorens vs VPI

I'm looking to possibly upgrade to a better turntable.

My current setup is a Thorens TD166 MKII with the original tp11 tonearm. The table has a few mods including a solid cherry plinth and birch bottom with sorbothane feet. It also came with the 10mm spindle bearing, same one used on the TD160.

Amp: Rogue audio Sphinx 
Preamp: MM preamp built into the Sphinx
Cartidge: Shure M97xe with SAS stylus
Speakers: Monitor Audio Silver 8

The components listed above are my recent upgrades. I now think my table is due for an upgrade. 

I am considering installing a Jelco SA750D tonearm on my Thorens, since the tonearm is likely the weakest performing part of the table, or going with a completely new table.

I am considering the following tables:

Rega Planar 3 (possibly not a big leap?)

Rega RP8

VPI Classic 1 

Acoustic Signature Wow XL with Rega arm.

I am leaning toward the VPI, partly because I really like its look, but I do want the best sounding table under $3000 (subjective I know). Overall, I'm pleased with the current sound from my Thorens, so maybe the best bang for my buck would be a new tonearm. Some members have claimed that a Debut Carbon will blow the doors of a TD166, but in my personal experience, it's the opposite. So I'm thinking I'd probably need to spend over 1K for a real sonic upgrade over my Thorens.

Anyone have experience with VPI tables versus Thorens TD16X series? Any advice is welcome.
helomech
tablejockey
3,772 posts
 
I have the latest Classic I. If you decide on the VPI, consider the OLDER version, which has the ability to hook up the SDS/Phoenix speed controller. Older models have the motors in the front of plinth. A mod by VPI is necessary for a newer model. I imagine just disconnecting the circuitry and a pulley?

Recent models have have a DC supply for circuitry that is a mini regen AC system powering the motor. This helps the motor get a steady voltage,but not PERFECT 33.3.If you want perfect 33.3 RPM, the SDS or Phoenix is needed.



helomech OP
1,508 posts
 
TableJockey,

Thanks for the tip. I was unaware of the variations. I have a Music Hall Cruise control which allegedly is compatible with some VPI models. It works well with my Thorens. How do you like the sound of the Classic?
don_c55
1,025 posts
 
Older VPI is the clear choice.
tablejockey
3,772 posts
 
Helmech,

relative to to the cost of my other components/speakers2-4K retail, I don't believe I would hear a substantial difference in SONICS until I hit next tier of expensive gear:5-10K? 
Just every now and then can you hear VERY slight pitch deviation during CRITICAL listening. Otherwise, The Classic is a keeper. If anything, I would like to tweak it with an outboard motor and speed controller and maybe the 3D arm.
I have mine on brass footers with a 4" maple slab. 
I make this assessment after hearing plenty of uber show/store rigs.

You probably can find the older Classic for a good deal since its been a few years now since its release.
Spend as much as you can tolerate on the phone stage/LOMC.

helomech OP
1,508 posts
 
Thanks for the insight. 
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