“The Classic 3 turntable VPI model which includes some significant refinements, including a massive new plinth structure in which a ½"-thick plate of machined aluminum is bonded to a 1/8"-thick steel subplate that itself is bonded to 2" of MDF. The result is a massive, well-damped, ultra-low-resonance, 60-lb platform that sits on newly designed feet that, Weisfeld claims, produce greater stability and provide a better aesthetic match to the new plinth, which is finished in lustrous piano-black lacquer. The review sample's top plate was finished in wrinkled pebble black.
The drive system consists of an AC synchronous motor fitted with a two-step Delrin pulley that interfaces, via a rubber O-ring, with an 18-lb aluminum platter damped with a stainless-steel disc bonded to its underside. The platter rides on a pre-lubricated inverted ball bearing and a composite thrust pad.
I'm happy to see the switch of platter material from acrylic to damped aluminum; Weisfeld says the latter can be more precisely machined, and is more easily damped, more resistant to changes in temperature and humidity, and more dense. And he and I agree that it sounds better than acrylic. The Classic 3's platter is machined to accept VPI's peripheral ring clamp, which is included, as is their heavy HR-X center weight. Although the Classic 3 has been designed for the LP to be in direct contact with the platter's aluminum surface, some buyers have been using as a record mat the thin rubber mat that protects the platter surface during shipping. Weisfeld is agnostic about whether this is a good idea or not.
Most important in a turntable like the Classic 3 is how the motor is simultaneously integrated into and mechanically isolated from the plinth. Here the motor, fitted from below, is attached to a heavy plate that in turn is attached to the plinth top, but separated from it by a rubber damper. There's another rubber damper under the motor. The motor is a high-torque model, but when I placed a stethoscope against the plinth and listened, I heard virtually no motor noise. “ -Michael Fremer, Stereophile
OVERVIEW
Great condition consignment VPI Classic 3 Turntable with Bob’s Devices VPI Step up Transformer and Airtight PC3 Cartridge.
Unit comes with original box, packaging, and protective outer box for shipping.
Turntable rated 8/10 for minor cosmetic wear consistent with age and use. Slight scuff on dust cover, please see images for details.
SPECIFICATIONS
Turntable:
- Type: Analog turntable for 33.3 and 45 rpm vinyl records
- Chassis: Non-resonating laminated one-piece, 2.5" thick MDF block with 11 gauge steel with bolts through all the layers
- Tonearm: JMW-10.5i SE Tonearm with anti-skate.
- Output: RCA jack termination (XLR termination optional for a fee).
- Dimensions: 20.5" x 15.5" x 10"
- Footprint: 19.25" x 14.25"
- Diameter Of Single Foot: 2.25"
- Platter Height: 2"
- Platter Weight: 20 lbs.
- Chassis Weight: 30 lbs.
- Total Weight: 65 lbs.
Cartridge:
- Internal impedance: 9 ohms
- Output voltage: 0.55mV/1kHz
- Stylus pressure: 1.4 - 1.8g
- Channel balance: within 0.8dB/1kHz
- Cantilever: complex (boron & aluminium)
- Weight: 13.5g
Bob’s Devices VPI Step up:
This fully integrated Step-up Transformer/VPI Interface Box was specifically created to improve the performance of your VPI turntable when used with a low output Moving Coil Phono Cartridge. It replaces the standard VPI Interface Box with a unit that combines the top of the line Bob's Devices exclusive SKY CineMag Step Up Transformers with the VPI Interface Box.
This unit eliminates a set of interconnects and connectors in the phono playback circuit. The path between the moving coil cartridge and the phono preamplifier is as critical as it is sensitive due to the low voltage and current being transmitted. Further, this path is also subject to RF and other interference. You will hear the difference by streamlining this path - "the fewer stones in the road the smoother the ride." (from Bob's Devices website)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Please call 734.662.3595 and ask for Richard if you have any questions about this product.
We make every effort to update our ads quickly when inventory fluctuates, but we encourage you to call and check product availability, as we are also a brick and mortar store.
