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VPI HR-X, Super Scoutmaster and Acrylic Platters

I would like to know peoples opinion about the HR-X vs Super Scoutmaster turntables from VPI. I have seen several HR-X tables for sale on Audiogon, but few Super Scoutmasters (that I can remember). Absolute sound sort of said, the best I can remember, both of these are end all turntables. I heard an HR-X that had some issues through a BAT top system and was not too impressed. Both of these tables have acrylic platters. I remember when I had an all acrylic platter on an older well tempered, the sound wasnt so hot. They ended up adding lead to improve the bass. So far, I have not found a shop that has a Super Scoutmaster in my area to audition. I currently have a 1st version TNT with V series moter, SDS, V series bearing, original platter, original spring towers with the huge height adjustment knobs and a Graham 1.5T. The table sounds great, but of course, being an audiophile, wondering about upgrading the platter and suspension towers. I figure this is about a 2K upgrade with the ring clamp, platter and towers. Lots of bucks for an unkown combination. Was going to bite the bullet but I have seen what I think, is an unusual amount of HR-X tables on the used market (for its high price). I was also thinking about selling my VPI and getting the Super Scoutmaster based on the reviews but at $5k and no audition, I am not sure I am brave enough to take a loss if I dont like it. Also, used HR-x, even new, seem to be going for around $7k which is in a close ballpark. Anyone heard both and can give me an opinon? Or comment on all the HR-X (at least it seems like it) tables up on Audiogon compared to Super Scoutmaster?
linnlp12
alephman
107 posts
 
I would consider the tonearms. The Super Scoutmaster comes with that wobbly arm I personally don't care for. If you have a Graham 1.5T you would be taking a downgrade arm-wise. Personally I would work on upgrading what you already have. I have never seen an HRX, but I wouldn't want it because you have no choice on what arm you want. I'll put my Graham 2.2 against the VPI any day. Twisting the tonearm wire for anti-skating? Please. Now the outer ring clamp I would definitly like to try. Don't get me wrong, I have a modified VPI HW19 Mk IV so I have nothing against VPI, I'm not sure I like the newer designs.
Chris
yagbol2
66 posts
 
Alephman,

VPI does sell HR-X's with armboard though special ordered I think.
Mine is on the way and fitted for a Graham Phantom X
bamafan
74 posts
 
Alephman, You are not limited to the JMW-12.6 with the HR-X. I know of one person who uses a Graham on his. Also, any unipivot tonearm will wobble when you move it. It is the nature of the beast.
cleopatra52's avatar
cleopatra52
98 posts
 
Don't do it! A friend of mine, who is also a well known Canadian equipment manufacturer, went from a TNT V to the HRX and he was less than impressed with the result. He said that the HRX provided great detail, which made jazz etc. sound good, but the sound was very light. Large scale classical works had little bass and impact. In my experience, this is a characteristic of all the light, acrylic designs.
gladstone
296 posts
 
I disagree. I had the TNT Hot Rod V, then went to the HR-X. It's in a different league. It has tremendous bass and a more extended high end. For it's price, hard to beat. The next level of turntable is SME 30, etc.
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