Prime or Prime Scout
 

Prime or Prime Scout? I’m considering turntables and was gravitating toward a Prime Scout, but I have to consider if it’s worth stepping up to the Prime. The 3D arm is cool, but I wonder if the price difference is worth it.

What cartridges are recommended for these tables?

Thanks!

IMHO the 3D arm is really where it's at. I've had Scout, Classic and now Prime. I really liked the Classic look but prefer the Prime sound. Lot's of VPI owners like SoundSmith cartridges. I had a Zephyr on my Classic and on my Prime. Did just about everything right. Another popular choice is the VAS NOVA. Harry Weisfeld has a few available that he had Steve Leung build special for his preferences. Cartridges are like automobiles and everyone has a different opinion. I didn't see a phono stage in your profile so allot would depend on that.

I had the Zephyr on my Prime and it sounded great!

George

There is a significant performance improvement with the Prime compared to the Prime Scout, as would be expected given their price difference. It's not a small change but an across the board better execution of VPI's design objectives which is easily heard in a comparative audition.

If you can swing it, go Prime. I have the Scout and it’s a great TT, but the Prime is a big step up. Better motor, deck, platter, feet and arm. I also recommend a Soundsmith cart and the Zephyr is great. You can’t go wrong w either.

Great feedback guys. So much more than I wanted to spend but likely worth it!

I’ve heard Soundsmith and met the mad scientist owner at a show and was very impressed.

Phono amp is a basic Musical Fidelity unit, likely not worthy of this rig.

I just bought a Pro-ject RPM 9.2 with a Sumiko Evo III cartridge. Terrific close-out deal from Audio Advisor. I figure I’ll dip my toe into the vinyl world with a decent rig and maybe go all in with the far more costly Prime/Soundsmith combo down the road.

Thanks again for the feedback!

Good job JR........................that's a good turntable. :thumbsup:

Be extra careful with that cartridge..........that stylus sticks way out. :tears:

Ron

Thanks Ron. It does indeed. I got the matching dust cover/cat repellant just in case!

I was just going to comment on dust for that table, cause without a cover it eventually will be an issue.

Without one, I had good results using compressed air in a can and a fan makeup brush for once a week or so dust cleaning.

Ron