VPI

Always far-thinking and imaginative, Harry Weisfeld of VPI has really come up with something new and unusual for turntable lovers. It's called "Rim Drive", and it combines the best aspects of belt and idler drive into a single system without any of idler drive's drawbacks. By melding the old idler rim drive to the new VPI dual motor flywheel, VPI has produced a drive system with the immediacy of rim drive and the quietness and smooth rotation of belt and flywheel drive. The two, paired motors of any VPI dual-motor drive system transfer their power to the large flywheel of the Rim Drive using belts. But instead of connecting the platter to the flywheel assembly with a third belt (as in the pre-Rim Drive design), the platter is driven by a silicone “O” ring on the circumference of a large wheel attached to the flywheel. The flywheel is a noiseless, cog-free source of power. The rim drive transfers this power perfectly.

The VPI Rim Drive improves pace, timing, spatial cues, noise levels, and image stability, while delivering deep, tight bass. For the first time, you will hear bass from a turntable that sounds like a master tape. Also, the Rim Drive is fast with terrific punch. With the VPI Rim Drive, all the power delivered to the flywheel by the two low-noise, 24-pole synchronous motors is transferred perfectly to the platter. There isn't a better source for powering a turntable than such a noiseless, passive flywheel.

Not only can the Rim Drive be ordered with new turntables, but every TNT-6, Super Scoutmaster, and HR-X can be retrofitted with this amazing new drive system for $1000. Owners of VPI dual-motor models are invited to call the store with any questions about upgrading their turntables.