VPI Prime 21 Turntable - Black - No Cartridge

VPI Prime 21: Gimbal 10-3D Tonearm and a 20-Pound Platter

The VPI Prime 21 takes the best parts of VPI's Prime turntable and refines them with input from customers and reviewers. It pairs a 12-inch, 20-pound aluminum platter with VPI's 3D-printed Gimbal 10-3D tonearm. This listing is the Black finish, sold without a cartridge.

The chassis is vinyl-wrapped MDF and steel. It stands on four adjustable HW-40 isolation feet.

Gimbal 10-3D Tonearm

The Gimbal 10-3D uses a full gimbal bearing and VPI copper weave wire inside. Its 3D-printed body combines epoxy resin and Delrin with copper, aluminum and steel. It adjusts for counterweight, azimuth and VTA, and connects through a Lemo plug.

Heavy Platter, Precise Motor

A separate 300 RPM motor drives the 20-pound platter with a belt. VPI measures each motor pulley to +/- .0005 inch at the factory. VPI rates wow and flutter and speed accuracy at .05%, with rumble 80 dB down.

HW-40 Isolation Feet

The Prime 21 comes with four HW-40 isolation feet. Turn them clockwise to raise the turntable, or counter-clockwise to lower it.

How the Prime 21 Fits Your System

The Prime 21 plays 33 and 45 RPM records. You change speed by moving the belt on the two-step motor pulley.

It has no built-in phono preamp, so it needs a phono stage or an amplifier with a phono input. It also needs a cartridge, which is not included.

Plan for a 19.5 x 13.75-inch footprint and 44 pounds. VPI highly recommends a 1- to 3-inch-thick maple shelf on rubber isolator feet.

Who Is This Turntable Best For?

• Cartridge owners — it comes without a cartridge, so you can mount the one you already own or prefer.
• Fine-tuners — the Gimbal 10-3D adjusts for counterweight, azimuth and VTA.
• Future upgraders — VPI offers a periphery ring clamp, Analog Drive System, Reference feet and Fatboy tonearm.
• Owners of a phono stage — it connects to any phono input that suits your cartridge.
• Not for — anyone who wants a built-in preamp or push-button speed change.

How Does It Connect to Your System?

• Place the chassis on a flat, level shelf, with the motor cutout on the left, and set the motor in it.
• Remove the spindle cap, lower the platter onto the spindle, and loop the belt around the platter and pulley.
• Mount your cartridge, then align it with the supplied alignment jig and stylus force gauge.
• Plug the tonearm's Lemo connector into the junction box, then run a phono cable to your phono input.
• Use the upper part of the pulley for 33 RPM and the lower, wider part for 45 RPM.
• Available in Black and Walnut; this listing is Black.

Pairs Well With

Complete your Prime 21 setup with:

• Phono Cartridges
• Phono Preamplifiers
• Turntable Cables
• Audio Racks

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Prime 21 come with a cartridge?

No. This listing is sold without a cartridge, so you choose and mount your own.

How do I switch between 33 and 45 RPM?

Move the belt on the two-step motor pulley. The upper step is for 33 RPM and the lower, wider step is for 45 RPM. VPI's optional Analog Drive System improves speed accuracy and adjustment.

Does the platter bearing need oiling?

VPI lubricates the bearing with PTFE grease at the factory. VPI says it needs no maintenance for at least two years.

What warranty does it carry?

In the United States, VPI warrants the Prime 21 for three years from purchase by the original retail purchaser. VPI says the warranty takes effect once you register online.

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