Mk4 "black knight" platter

[Stefan_DR3]

For those who have upgraded from a Mk3 do you still use the rubber washer to help the clamp "dish" the record onto the platter?

I was told it is not required but without this the LP doesn't even touch the black part of the platter, only the spindle / clamp. The problem with using it and thick 200g records is the clamp has trouble engaging the threads.

I think I need a slightly thinner washer.

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[Markd51]

Maybe might want to give Herbies Labs a call.

They make a grungebuster washer, specific to the VPI Spindle. He may also custom make you a thinner one if needed.

[Good Times]

Grand Prix Audio also produce sorbothane washers in various durometers (for different thickness records) that really squish down well.

[Stefan_DR3]

Thanks guys. I was not aware of such products.
So I was correct that this platter DOES need a washer?

If so, my other option is to get a new clamp. The problem is my threads are damaged so there is not enough engagement with a thick record + washer.

Can you recommend a threaded clamp or should I just get another VPI? I'm not into super exotic tweaks. Fitment is most important, obviously.

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[Stefan_DR3]

Can anyone recommend a threaded clamp or should I just get another VPI?

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[whaleyboy]

Have you considered the VPI HRX center weight? It does not use threads, just gravity.

[mraudio]

I have a custom VPI HW-19 and because of the way I designed it, a regular VPI clamp will not work. The threads of the clamp start to far up inside the clamp to make contact with the threads of the spindle.

I have tried many different VPI "type" clamps and none of them worked. I also tried several different washers, but that didn't help either.

I decided to try a clamp from one of my Oracle tables and it worked GREAT! The threads start lower on this clamp and it has no problem with contacting the threads of the spindle.

I tried one of the Aluminati weights that Matt sells here on AA for one of my Rega tables and loved it. I asked Matt if he could thread one of his weights with 1/4 X 20 threads to use on my VPI. He was very accommodating. This was the winner! The only downside is you have to be very careful not to over tighten the clamp. Because of the mass and heft of this weight, it's easy to torque it too much.

The Aluminati was less than $100. A new Oracle clamp is about $300.

[Markd51]

My VPI HW-19 has a list of extensive mods as well, but I still use the stock first version all black Lead Ring MK-IV Platter, and never encountered issues with clamping with any VPI Clamp, or the first Version BDR Clamp.

As you probably are aware of, these older MK-IV/TNT Platters had a 3-Pin Support-Suspension System.
I would imagine if one screwed the Pins in a bit too far which would in effect raise the Platter further off the Bearing Shaft Flange, then perhaps yes, one might not be able to catch the threads.

[Steady339]

Originally Posted by Stefan_DR3

Can anyone recommend a threaded clamp or should I just get another VPI?

SOTA makes one of the best non-threaded record clamps.

[prepress]

I am using the same ring and clamp that came with my HW-19Mk3 after I upgraded to Mk4, almost 22 years ago. I haven't noticed any difference or problems.