VPI Aries Scout Turntable

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General:
This is a well-cared for Scout that's actually made right here in NJ! Featuring the coveted JMW Memorial Tonearm

This 'table looks and sounds great. The lifting mechanism is smooth and responsive, the tonearm pivots without effort, and the motor is dead on at 33.33 RPM.  

Pick from any of our Sumiko or Hana new cartridges and we will install and calibrate using our 12 step process for free (a $400 value). The Hana ML would be a great choice.

Click here to view all of our cartridges.

No manual is included but we have some brochures.

This unit came from a famous musician which we will share with the new owner.

Brand Background:
VPI Industries is a family owned, high-end audio manufacturer that has been in business for over 35 years. Although best known for their high-end turntables, VPI have recently introduced the Player and Clifford models which offer similar performance at an approachable price. Their VPI Record Cleaning Machines (RCMs) are the industry standard for collectors and record shops alike. VPI components are designed and built in Cliffwood, New Jersey.,VPI Industries is a family owned, high-end audio manufacturer that has been in business for over 35 years. Although best known for their high-end turntables, VPI have recently introduced the Player and Clifford models which offer similar performance at an approachable price. Their VPI Record Cleaning Machines (RCMs) are the industry standard for collectors and record shops alike. VPI components are designed and built in Cliffwood, New Jersey.

With the HW-17 record cleaning machine and its unprecedented cleaning power, your album collection will sound better than it ever has before. With proper cleaning, your records will last longer, and it will reduce wear to your expensive needle.
A record that may appear perfectly clean to the eye can contain a buildup of debris deep in the grooves. Even a brand new record contains debris from the manufacturing process which will be removed by the HW-17. 

The HW-17 is the standard in high performance record cleaning machines, and is said to be the most copied record cleaning machine in the world. The critically acclaimed HW-17 is also standard equipment in many record libraries and radio stations.

The fan cooled HW-17 is built for hours of continuous use, and is ideal for large record collections. With its high-torque, 18 RPM turntable motor and its high power vacuum, The HW-17 makes quick work of even the dirtiest records. 

The HW-17 features automatic cleaning fluid application, a self aligning vacuum suction tube for accurate cleaning, and the HW-17's high-power vacuum ensures quick, deep cleaning.

The HW-17 also features a bi-directional motor, which will allow albums to be cleaned in both directions, so debris that is unable to be removed from cleaning in one direction, can be removed by cleaning in the other direction. 

The HW-17 features a marine grade plywood chassis for long life and durability.,VPI Industries is a family owned, high-end audio manufacturer that has been in business for over 35 years and is best known for their high-end turntables.

Ownership:
Single Owner

Connections:
RCA Cables Required

Cosmetic Condition:
8/10 = Very Good. Excellent front faceplate, one minor flaw on chassis side or top. See our detailed rating description here.

Working Condition:
Working perfectly and calibrated on our custom turntable calibration stand.

Packing:
Will be packed using our highly developed in-house process and custom packing materials.Reviews:
Click Here

Testing Process:

First we try to identify any mechanical issues, particularly in the tonearm bearings.  We check for freedom of movement or any resistance on both the horizontal and vertical range.  There is a quick test for this which involves placing the table on its front edge and allowing the arm to swing freely like a pendulum.  We then make any adjustments necessary to achieve minimal resistance and sometimes adjust the bearing pressure.  On gimbal tonearms we inspect the cone tip with a magnifier.

We then asses the platter speed by using one of several methods, the most accuse is a playing a test tone on a test record and measuring the frequency out put with a frequency counter or oscilloscope.  We also utilize test equipment to measure the wow and flutter to ensure its within spec.  We do this for all speeds available for that particular model.  Adjustments are then made to achieve proper speed which will vary depending on table drive design.  Some require an adjustment of an internal or external potentiometer, some will require a pulley or motor adjustment.  We also inspect the platter bearing to ensure its properly lubricated keeping in mind that some don't require lubrication at all.

We then inspect the power supply and address any issues with overworked capacitors particularly on Linn and later Thorens machines which tend to need attention.

On fully mechanical vintage tables like the Thorens TD124 and Garrard 301/401 we will go thought the entire mechanism, replace any worn parts and lubricate all components necessary to ensure smooth operation, speed change and low mechanical noise.

When fitting a new cartridge we will go through our detailed calibration process which can involve as many as 12 steps depending on the arm design.  We perform this work on our custom turntable calibration rig which was developed in-house.

Some of these steps include:

• Pivot to spindle adjustment

• Tracing force

• Anti-skate

• Tonearm height

• Lifter height

• VTA

• Azimuth

• Stylus Distance and Overhang

We then do a critical listening test using our test records and our test system to ensure proper sonics.