Prime Signature Analog rig update
 

It's been a bit over 6 weeks since I finally got my VPI Prime Signature/McIntosh MP100/ Ortofon Cadenza Black rig set up....during that time I've been immensely enjoying the new setup.
I'm not sure how many hours are on it now, but it does seem to be showing signs of breaking in, and finding its true "signature"...pardon the pun!

I've also been accessorizing the setup, and, with the arrival of what is essentially the final accessory (at least for a time), it's time to post some new photos.

Added are the Integrity Tru-lift auto arm lifter, Tru-Kleen stylus cleaner, and the Tru-Sweep record cleaning brush. I've been quite pleased with these three accessories, and have found that, once
fine tuned, they work very well.

I think I have to say that the icing on the accessory cake, if you will, is the VPI Periphery ring clamp, which arrived yesterday. This device is an absolute winner in my opinion, flattening out even seriously
warped (to the point of being unplayable) and bringing along substantial sonic benefits. These include more stable imaging, air around voices, more precision detail and micro-dynamics. I'm actually quite
surprised to see and hear this much benefit from this simple, but precisely manufactured device. And, needless to say, it looks gorgeous.

Here's a few new photos of the fully accessorized table.....

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A couple of closeups of the periphery ring, which captures the very small bevel around the lead-in groove:

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This one shows the ring on the platter without a record, and how it rests on the machined lip around the outside of the platter. You could play a record without the ring clamp in this
way if you wanted to (though I can't imagine not using it!)

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I have two small caveats with the newly installed accessories:

On the Tru-lift arm lifter....the device works great. It comes in a number of heights 1, 2, 3 and 4. Number 4 is the tallest, for turntables with higher platters (such as mine). The shorter
models have a larger, round base, similar to that on the Tru-sweep or Tru-Kleen. The tallest (#4) does not have the base. It will work on the Prime signature. However, one can also purchase
the #3 with the base, and it will also work on my table. In hindsight, I kind of wish I had gone this route as I like the added stability of the larger base. At some point, I may change it out.
However, this is a minor complaint, and in no way reflects on the device's performance.


On the periphery ring, I have read reports, and have seen for myself that in a few cases, if you have a disc that has been cut slightly undersize, you may have some trouble getting the ring to
capture the edge of the disc. I've seen this on 2 discs so far. I was still able to utilize it, but it was pretty close in one case. Overall however, the ring is really a big winner. I find myself wondering
how I played records all these years without a device like this. Combined with the Stillpoints LP1-V2 we take the vinyl experience to a new level.

I'm loving the new turntable, cartridge, phono preamp and all the trimmings immensely. I have trouble tearing myself away from it sometimes....it's a fabulous combination. :yes:

Congratulations. :thumbsup:
A beautiful setup. Cadenza Black is one of my favorites.

Pete - I know looks are subjective, but that’s one of the best looking turntables around. The finish is excellent and you’re right, the ring completes it. Awesome. Good pictures too!

- Buck

Pete… great updated review, and photos. So glad I was able to help your dream TT become a reality. ;)

What a gorgeous setup Pete, enjoy!

Congratulations, looks great! And thanks for sharing your experience with the accessories.

Thanks Gents....for all the kind words.

Ivan....special thanks you once again for helping me make it happen. It is truly a dream turntable. It can be enjoyed without even spinning! :yes:

Pete that setup looks great, very meticulously set up. I had the same table, including the ring, and I agree about it occasionally not working (on a few bad album cuts I had), the tolerances on it are very tight. Also I had the Trulift (purchased and picked up directly from VPI), and they must have given me the #3, because it had the base built in. I think yours may actually look better, and with the Blue tack I don't think it is ever going anywhere.

Sweet vinyl rig! I went with the Cadenza Bronze with my Prime Sig and it has been an excellent combo. I know you will enjoy it for a long time.

A fan of VPI here... good to hear you enjoy yours as well!