VPI Avenger Turntable - JMW 12 3D Tonearm - Complete

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General:
The Avenger from VPI is an iconic turntable released in 2016. Its tripod-like design is stunning and it doesn't look like any other turntable on the market.

And just like all VPI turntables, they're made right here in NJ!

A new Avenger will set you back $16,000, so this is your chance to pick one up in excellent condition for half the price!

Its construction consists of three layers giving the turntable lots of mass. This along with high-quality damping feet help isolate the turntable from vibrations and help your phono cartridge sound its best.

Included with the turntable will be its original manual, accessories (platter lifter, scale, protractor, belt) and record weight. It will be shipped in its original box for safe transit. 

*Please contact us upon purchase if you'd like to add a phono cartridge, as no phono cartridge is included. We're also equipped to calibrate and completely set up the 'table if you wish.

SkyFi Cosmetic Notes:
This turntable looks almost new. Very minimal scratches/wear shown.

From VPI:
The VPI Avenger Table was originally a project started by Harry over 12 years ago. In the process of the design, the project was dropped in mid-production due to excessive demand by HR-X customers which left the design and proto-type chassis to be mothballed. The good news about the abandoned design is Harry instead shifted his focus to starting and completing the VPI Classic Turntable.

Shortly after the development of the Prime, the forgotten Avenger and its designs were re-discovered! The working name was the "Tri-Pod Project". Being newly motivated, Harry has finally put in motion the table that will be his masterpiece! The unique iterations that had been crafted from the original process were completed as Special Editions.
 
The VPI Avenger chassis is three layers of bonded acrylic/aluminum/acrylic, with damping material between layers, locked in by 3 isolation steel corner posts, 3 bolts, and the massive bearing assembly. The corner posts which hold the tonearms (up to three will fit) have adjustable machined knobs giving the user the ability to easily raise and lower the height to level the table. Fully adjustable arm boards are made from 5/8” 6061 aluminum for rigidity and grounding. The table can mount up to three arms, any manufacturer's brand, and any length!

SkyFi Technical Notes:
Speed test passed, 33.30 RPM.

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.

Ownership:
Second Owner

Connections:
RCA Phono output, Ground

General Sound:
Smooth, uncolored, undistorted natural and clean

Cosmetic Condition:
9/10 = Excellent. Perfect physical condition, gently used. See our detailed rating description here.

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

Included:
Unit and box

Packing:
Original Manufacturers Packing

Original MSRP:
$16,000.00

Specs:
Wow and flutter: .03%
Speed Accuracy: .04%
Rumble: 82db Down

Dimensions:
27" x 23" x 10"
Footprint: 23" x 20"

Weight:
68 lbs.

Approximate Age:
2016

Link to Manual:
Click Here

Recommended Cables:
Kimber Kable - Phono Interconnects

Kimber Kable - Flagship Phono Interconnects

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 assess the platter speed using one of several methods, the most accurate being playing a test tone on a test record and measuring the frequency output with a frequency counter or oscilloscope. We also utilize test equipment to measure the wow and flutter to ensure it is within spec. We do this for all speeds available for that particular model (33 RPM, 45 RPM, 78 RPM).

Adjustments are then made to achieve proper speed which will vary depending on the turntable's 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 it is properly lubricated, keeping in mind that some bearings 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 TD-124 and Garrard 301/401 we will go thought the entire mechanism. Then replace any worn parts and lubricate all components necessary to ensure smooth operation, speed change, and low mechanical noise. 

When fitting a new phono cartridge we will go through our detailed calibration process which can involve as many as 12 steps depending on the tonearm 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
• Tracking Force
• Anti-Skate
• Tonearm Height
• Lifter Height
• VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle)
• Azimuth
• Stylus Distance and Overhang

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