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Upgrade from VPI HW-19 Mark IV turntable

I have a really good sounding VPI HW-19 Mark 4 table with the SAMA motor, wood body Benz H2 cartridge and a Premier MMT arm (running into an EAR 834P phono stage). Obviously the arm is probably the weak link on this setup. I have had the urge to move on and get a new turntable in the $2,000-$2,500 range (with cartridge). Would a new 'table in this price range be a big step up in sound quality, very little or none at all? I am considering VPI Scout, Music Hall 9.1, Rega's or any other suggestions. Would upgrading the arm be the best bang for the buck? Thanks in advance for your comments.
128x128resophonic
manitunc
795 posts
 
I think a turntable in the 2000 range with arm and cartridge would probably be a step down. I would definitely look into replacing the arm. The Audiomods is a steal for its performance. An SME 309 also works well on your table. Either can be purchased for less than $1500
lespier
68 posts
 
Keep the Mark IV, it's one of the best turntables VPI ever made. I think you would have to spend way above your budget to get better and any of the models you mention would IMHO, be a backward step.
The Mark IV warrants a much better arm. I once had a Mark III and going from a Rega arm to an SME V made a huge difference.
Maybe look for a used Graham 2.2 ..... even a Mk1 Phantom might be had within your budget as would an SME-V. I've seen Basis Vector arms for sale for about $1500 (I bought one!) and at that price you get a real bargain. Basis arms can be a bit tricky to set up on non Basis turntables however.
grinnell
1,075 posts
 
If you like the overall sound upgrade the arm.
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