VPI Traveler Turntable w/Many Upgrades and NEW SUMIKO Blue Point No. 3

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This gorgeous VPI traveler, made right here in NJ, hits the mark in both good looks and great performance.

It's also fitted with a few key upgrades to get them most from this package, including:
• Custom dust cover
• Upgraded Pangea power cord
• Upgraded two-piece metal adjustable feet
• UK record mat
• New Sumiko Blue Point No. 3 High Output MC Cartridge

Besides the upgrades mentioned above this package also includes the original manual, acrylic protractor, and original rubber feet.

Key features include:
• Gimbal 10" tonearm
• Innovate plinth material
• Billet aluminum platter with stainless insert
• Very high quality bearing

The Sumiko will be well calibrated using our 11-step process (a $400 value), and will ship with the tonearm in place ready to work. This model will hold calibration well and travel safely in the original official VPI packaging.

Click below to add our recommended matching cables from Kimber Kable, all brand new as SkyFi is an official Kimber dealer.

Kimber Kable - Tonearm Interconnects - Better

Kimber Kable - Flagship Tonearm Interconnects - Best

The SkyFi Testing Process for Turntables:

Fist 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.