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VPI Scout vs VPI Classic

What sort of sonic differences can I expect between a VPI Scout with JMW9 tonearm and upgraded 300 RPM motor versus a VPI Classic? I really like the idea of having a stand alone motor versus the plinth mounted motor of the Classic but is that a moot point when comparing the sonics between the two? I've also found the clamping method to the acrylic platter with my Scout to ever so slightly reduce dynamics. Is the aluminum platter better in that regard? Are further tweaks possible with the Scout or is the Classic just in a different league regardless of Scout tweaks? By the way my cartridge is a Dynavector DV20X L and phono pre is a Dynavector P75 MK II using phono enhance. Thanks in advance for all responses.
arch2
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cmalak
681 posts
 
I auditioned the VPI Scout and the VPI Classic tables (among others) and although I decided to go in a different direction, the VPI Classic is a very good table and as Eric says far outperfrms the VPI Scout on most any sonic attribute. Better bass foundation. More resolved midrange. More 3D soundstage and better image density. Much more dynamic and better PRAT. Overall more musically involving. The VPI Scout sounds almost dark and slow in comparison to the Classic. If money is not an issue, I would definitely go with the Classic.
davems
6 posts
 
I'm another who has gone from Scout to Classic. I agree with the others. The Classic wins.
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islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
The improvement from Scout to Classic not withstanding, I'm of the opinion that you would hear a greater improvement by upgrading to a better phono stage than you would hear between the tables. I still own a Scout Signature, with Dynavector XX2 MKII, and at one time had the Dyna P-75 MKII phono stage, which was completely underwhelming. I now use a modded Simaudio Moon LP 5.3, with outboard power supply. This combo sounds superb, and perhaps with the Classic, would sound even better, but, IMHO, the Dyna phono pre is holding you back more than the difference in turntables. For what it's worth.

Best of luck,
Dan
greggdeering's avatar
greggdeering
45 posts
 
"The VPI Scout sounds almost dark and slow"

Funny how those of us who said that same thing at the time of the Scout's release were pilloried. I have not heard the Classic so I am not offering an opinion, but I am a little shocked at the change of awareness? A VPI with a better delivery of PRaT is a good thing though.

Gregg
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