How does the VPI Aries II stand up to current mid priced tables?

The VPI Aries 2 also was produced as a "Black Knight" edition, which is the one that I've been using for many years.  I've tweaked it a bit over time.  This one has a black acrylic platter that I think is a bit lighter than the standard Aries 2. It came with a 9 inch arm, but early on I switched it out for a JMW 10.5i Classic 3 tonearm with new custom arm board from VPI, which made a nice improvement. I consider the speed controller to be essential for this turntable. I use the VPI SDS version, although I've heard good things about Phoenix and Walker speed controllers, as others have mentioned.  Various Dynavectors worked well on this setup, although I've recently upgraded to a Lyra Kleos SL, which is outstanding.  Would be interested to know how you like your newly acquired Aries 2 . . .

"Is there a drop in platter upgrade for the Aries II?"

ozzy62-if you do the Classic platter, It may be  a R/R.It comes with bearing assembly.

Email to VPI to confirm.

Yep, definitely doing that next!

@ozzy62, the upgraded platter cost $1500!  If you add that sum to your original used purchase price you could have bought a fully spec'd Aries 3. 

I get your point. But I have seen the platter for 1150.00. Still a lot of $$ I know. But an Aries III doesn't come around very often, not that I have seen.