VPI PRIME

Turntable with pre-installed 10.5" JWM 10 3D tonearm

The VPI Prime is born from the vision of the Weisfeld family, founders of VPI Industries, with Mat Weisfeld now at the helm and directly responsible for the design of this model. The Prime represents the perfect balance between a traditional approach and modern design, combining the structural solidity of a massive plinth with the fluid, dynamic lines typical of skeletal turntables. Its curved MDF chassis, wrapped in textured vinyl, is internally reinforced by a 3 mm thick steel plate that helps control resonance and improve feedback isolation. The base is supported by four adjustable Delrin feet with spikes and cups, ensuring stability and secure positioning.

At the heart of the system is a solid-machined aluminum 6061 platter, paired with a high-precision inverted bearing. This system is designed to minimize noise and maximize durability, using a hardened steel spindle, a hardened chrome ball, a phosphor bronze bushing, and a PEEK thrust disc. The platter and bearing assembly weighs approximately 10 kg (22 lbs), contributing to extremely stable rotation. Drive is handled by a 24-pole, 500 RPM AC synchronous motor housed in a separate, heavy enclosure. The only contact with the turntable is a rubber belt. Speed selection, either 33 or 45 RPM, is done manually by shifting the belt on the motor pulley.

The 10-inch JMW 3D tonearm, included in the price, is one of the Prime’s most distinctive features. Made using 3D printing technology from a special high-purity, non-crystalline epoxy resin, the tonearm is designed as a single, ultra-light and rigid piece with no additional metal joints. Its increased length compared to the traditional 9-inch arms reduces tracking angle distortion, while the unipivot design on a sharp point delivers exceptional sensitivity. The wiring exits directly from the top of the tonearm and connects to an independent terminal block, which also acts as a passive anti-skating system through the natural tension of the wire. Alternatively, a traditional wire and counterweight anti-skating system is also available.

The modular design philosophy of the Prime makes it easily upgradeable. Accessories such as the peripheral clamp ring, Signature feet, dual pivot stabilizer kit, and more can be added to gradually increase performance without requiring a major upfront investment. Additionally, the ability to easily remove the tonearm allows for quick swapping of pre-mounted cartridges on different arms—ideal for demanding audiophiles and professional reviewers.

Technical Specifications:

• Belt-drive system for smooth and silent rotation
• 12" solid aluminum platter, 5 cm (2") high and 10 kg (22 lbs) in weight, for superior stability
• Integrated tower for precise VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle) and SRA (Stylus Rake Angle) adjustments
• 2.5 cm thick MDF chassis, reinforced with a steel plate decoupled with silicone for excellent vibration damping
• Separate motor unit housed in a robust steel and aluminum enclosure to minimize mechanical interference
• Suspension system with four new improved mechanical isolation feet
• Manual speed selection between 33 and 45 RPM
• 24-pole AC synchronous motor, 300 RPM
• Pulley accuracy: ± 0.0005"
• Wow and Flutter: 0.05%
• Speed accuracy: 0.05%
• Rumble (noise floor): -80 dB
• Overall dimensions: 53 cm (W) x 40 cm (D) x 25 cm (H)