Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Simple setup, practically plug-and-play
- Quality tonearm and milled aluminum platter
- Delivers music to the preamp while interfering as little as possible
- Excellent tracking performance
- Upgradable with factory parts
Product Considerations
- Does not include a dust cover, which must be purchased separately
- No tonearm height adjustment
- No anti-skate adjustment
- May be limited on some cartridge options due to the lack of height adjustment
- The plinth finish may not appeal to everyone
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Dual CS5000 turntable with Sumiko Oyster Moonstone cartridge, the VPI Cliffwood with Ortofon 2M Red combination was more dynamic and provided a superior rendition of the song
Takeaway: The VPI Cliffwood is a sturdy and simple turntable perfect for a beginning audiophile that is serious about vinyl. It has precision parts and is easy to setup, offering great performance for the price.
All
Cliffwood
reviews
Manufacturer details
Chassis Composition: Vinyl Wrapped MDF
Platter Type & Size: 11.5" Aluminum, 7 lbs
Tonearm Included: Cliffwood Tonearm
Cartridge Included: VPI Shirley
Motor RPM: 600 RPM
Motor Pulley Accuracy: +/- .0005"
Average RMS Distortion: .36%
Footprint: 16" x 11"
Overall Size: 19" x 14" x 6"
Total Weight: 17.6 lbs
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- VPI turntables utilize a multi-layered plinth construction, often combining acrylic, stainless steel, and MDF, to create a highly inert and resonance-controlled base.
- They embrace 3D printing technology in their tonearm designs, allowing for complex shapes and optimized resonance control within a one-piece structure.
- The brand provides a family-owned business experience, with readily available support and a direct connection to the designers, emphasizing long-term product viability and customer care.
Select products
VPI Cliffwood
- Positioning: The entry-level turntable, designed for those new to high-fidelity audio.
- Description: Offers a solid performance with its aluminum platter and Cliffwood tonearm, making it a great choice for beginners. Unlike the more advanced models like the Prime X, it focuses on simplicity and ease of use, which is ideal for small rooms and those with a limited budget. It lacks the advanced isolation and tonearm options found in higher-end models, making it less suitable for those seeking extensive customization or the highest sound quality.
VPI Prime X
- Positioning: A high-performance turntable that sits above the Scout 21, offering advanced features for serious audiophiles.
- Description: Stands out with its 3D-printed JMW-12 tonearm and HW-40 isolation feet, providing superior sound isolation and detail retrieval compared to the Scout 21. It lacks the multi-tonearm capability of the Avenger, which might be a consideration for users looking for maximum flexibility.
VPI Avenger
- Positioning: A top-tier model designed for audiophiles seeking maximum flexibility and performance.
- Description: Features a unique three-layer chassis and ability to mount up to three tonearms, making it a standout choice for those who want to experiment with different audio setups. It offers superior isolation and sound quality compared to the Signature DS.
VPI Titan
- Positioning: The flagship model, offering groundbreaking performance and technology.
- Description: Features a pneumatic air-suspension system and analog-based oscillators for exceptional stability and sound purity, setting it apart from the Avenger and other models. Its high cost and advanced features make it suitable for those who are deeply invested in high-end audio and have the space to accommodate its large footprint.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
Technologically, two standout innovations set VPI apart:
Our use of 3D printing technology and our proprietary 3-phase BLD motor and processing system. The 3D-printed tonearms represent a major leap forward in precision, damping, and performance—offering sonic benefits that traditional manufacturing struggles to match. Our 3-phase motor system, paired with advanced control processing, delivers superior speed stability and vibration isolation. Both are significant engineering achievements in turntable design and performance.
From a broader philosophy, what truly differentiates us is our identity—we're a family-owned company, still run by the original family, now heading into a third generation. Every table is made in America, built by a small but dedicated team, and reflects a hands-on, personal commitment to craftsmanship and legacy that's hard to find today.
What's your approach to customer support?
We always recommend that customers first reach out to their original retailer—dealer or distributor—as they are often the quickest path to help. However, if the dealer is unavailable or the issue goes beyond their scope, we're absolutely here and ready to jump in.
Customers can contact us directly by email or phone, and we do our best to respond as quickly as possible. What sets us apart is our commitment to hands-on support—if needed, we'll FaceTime or Zoom with customers to walk them through setup, troubleshooting, or fine-tuning. We've even invited customers to the factory when they're nearby. We take support personally because we take our customers personally—when you buy a VPI, you're part of the family.
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
- Take Five – Dave Brubeck: The rhythm, the horn work, and the overall layering make this an ideal track for evaluating instrumental balance and clarity. Personally, it holds a special place—it was a favorite of mine and my wife back when we were dating, and my father, Harry Weisfeld (VPI's founder), used it to teach me about soundstage and timing. It's both a sentimental and technical go-to.
- Dr. Ackbar – Bob and Ray's Stereo Spectacular: This is a wild, lesser-known gem. It's a spoken-word journey through a castle/laboratory that plays with spatial cues and stereo effects in a way that's perfect for system testing. When your setup is dialed in, you should feel like you're physically in the space—with voices and effects coming from pinpoint locations around you.
- 64 Dodge – Greg Brown: This track gives me everything I need when checking a system—vocals, guitar tone, and fine detail. I grew up listening to it, so I know exactly how it should sound. When something's off, I can hear it immediately; when it's right, this track just sings.
What other products pair best with yours?
Tough to pick just one, but Nordost cables are often paired with VPI by both customers and retail partners—and for good reason. The synergy between Nordost and our turntables brings out incredible detail and clarity. That said, two standout system pairings we've seen a lot this past year include:
System 1:
- VPI Industries
- VAC Amplifiers
- Acora Speakers
- Cardas Cables
System 2:
- VPI Industries
- Audio Research
- Wilson Audio
- Nordost Cables
Each of these combinations delivers a beautiful blend of musicality, precision, and dynamic range—exactly what analog lovers are chasing.
Used
VPI
What if you spend more?
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality and meticulous design, featuring a vinyl-coated MDF and steel plinth
- The Gimbal 10-3D tonearm offers precise control, flexibility, and improved performance compared to earlier Prime designs
- Improved overall fit and finish compared to the original Prime, with a richer finish and machined top plate for additional bracing and isolation
- The Prime 21+ version is a carefully assembled set of products, including the Shyla cartridge and Weisline cable, that work together exceptionally well, offering a turnkey high-end turntable experience
- Delivers music with authority—digging out huge amounts of information and offering genre-agnostic performance
Product Considerations
- Assembly and initial setup can be challenging, especially for beginners, requiring some expertise and patience
- The Prime 21 is delivered without a cartridge or phono cables, unless purchasing the Prime 21+ package, requiring additional purchases
- Speed change between 33 and 45 RPM requires manually moving the belt
- Some reviewers noted a subtle upper bass bloom, which may be considered a touch of character rather than an imposition, but persists with different mat and clamp configurations
- Cueing lever might drop a touch too abruptly, and additional cue damping could be an improvement
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Prime 21 has improved fit and finish, a new machined top plate, better feet, and a gimbal tonearm instead of a unipivot, compared to the VPI Prime
- The Prime 21 slots in between the Prime and Prime Signature in terms of price, design, and sonic performance, compared to the VPI Prime Signature
- The feet of the Prime 21 are replaced by the ones first seen on the HW-40
- The soundstage of the Prime 21+ is not dissimilar to the HW-40 limited edition deck, but not to the same extent
Takeaway:
The VPI Prime 21 is a solid turntable that can bring out the best from records, and every detail has been carefully considered to give great sound. If one wants a high-end turntable that's easy to set up, especially the Prime 21+ package, this could be a good choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
In 1965, the Thorens TD 150, an inconspicuous little turntable, came on the market and thus started a technical revolution in record player manufacturing. For the first time, a spring-suspended sub-chassis with an inner platter driven by a flat belt was used in a mass-produced unit. The principle proved to be very successful and found many imitators in the years since.
Like its famous predecessor, the new Thorens TD 1500, which will be operated purely manually, features a sub-chassis that decouples the turntable and tonearm shelf from the motor and frame by means of three conical springs. In contrast to the TD 150, these springs can be adjusted from above through corresponding holes in the platter, which makes correct adjustment much easier.
The speed of the DC motor is electronically monitored by an incremental encoder and deviations, e.g. caused by a broom, are automatically corrected. This also enables very good wow and flutter values. As a real unique selling point in its class, the TD 1500 has XLR outputs in addition to the usual pair of RCA jacks, thus enabling true balanced operation with a suitable MC cartridge.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Improved clarity and detail retrieval...
- Superior TP 150 tonearm with better build quality and adjustability...
- Easy to set up and adjust, with user-friendly features like the adjustable springs...
- Superior speed stability compared to older Thorens models...
- Includes both RCA and balanced XLR outputs, providing connectivity options...
Product Considerations
- Sensitive to footfall, requiring a stable placement or additional support...
- The stock power cord is considered underwhelming...
- Some reviewers felt that the bass wasn't as tight as it could be, though still solid...
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the TD 150 (Original), the TD 1500 offers superior build quality and a much better tonearm...
- Compared to the Rega Planar 8, the TD 1500 does not move music along with the speed of a Rega Planar 8...
Takeaway: The Thorens TD 1500 is a well-built and refined turntable that pays homage to its classic predecessor while offering modern improvements in sound and functionality. It is a great choice for audiophiles who appreciate the Thorens legacy and want a high-performing turntable with a touch of vintage appeal.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The X8 - Xtension 9 and 10 within reach
The X8 is our most affordable mass-loaded turntable yet. Positioned neatly between the X2 and Xtension 9, the X8 adopts and breaks down its bigger siblings' features to make mass-loaded high-end design principles as accessible as never before.
Massive 5.1kg platter
The X8 offers a heavy, TPE damped mass-loaded platter precision lathed from a single aluminium block and finely balanced. On the Xtension 9 and 10 you cannot really play around with using different mats due to the glued on vinyl top. The X8 comes with a standard felt mat, also allowing you to experiment with different material mats in the future and tailor the sound to your taste.
Ceramic tipped, magnetically supported inverted bearing
A neodymium magnet decreases the load on the ceramic tipped bearing. Considering the massively heavy platter, this leads to a smoothly rotating base for your vinyl records and perfect speed stability.
The X8 inherited the massive MDF chassis and the top-of-the-line Pro-Ject 9cc EVO carbon tonearm from its larger siblings. The height-adjustable X8 features machined aluminium feet. The TPE damping technology in the feet effectively decouples the X8 from the surface it is placed on. The feet are a great choice for a more budget orientated turntable as they are faster and easier to set up than magnetic feet on the X9/10, and also require less maintenance.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality with a heavy MDF plinth, a machined aluminum platter, and a quality finish
- The 9cc EVO carbon tonearm is known for its stiffness, adjustability (VTA, azimuth), and performance
- Mass loading (heavy plinth and platter), TPE damping, and adjustable aluminum feet minimize vibration and resonance
- The inverted ceramic ball bearing with magnetic support ensures smooth and stable platter rotation
- The X8 allows for a balanced connection to a phono preamplifier, which can reduce noise and improve sound quality
Product Considerations
- The included cartridge may be a limiting factor for some users, and upgrading is often recommended
- To take full advantage of the balanced connection capabilities, a separate balanced phono stage and a DIN to XLR cable need to be purchased
- The X8 is a completely manual turntable, lacking auto-return or auto-stop functions
- Some reviewers found the location of the power button underneath the plinth slightly clunky
- Some users found the finger lift on the tonearm uncomfortable or insecure to use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The X8 uses the same tonearm and bearing assembly as the more expensive Pro-Ject Extension 9, with differences primarily in the feet (TPE damped vs magnetic levitation) and platter (bare aluminum vs recycled vinyl mat)
- The X8 has a superior platter, bearing and tonearm compared to the Pro-Ject X2
Takeaway: The Pro-Ject X8 is a well-built turntable that offers high-end features and performance. Its solid construction and quality components make it a great choice for vinyl enthusiasts looking to upgrade their listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Giglio sums up the history and ideas of Gold Note, in what is to all intents and purposes considered one of the company’s best creations: it reinterprets the classic turntable shape using high-quality materials and technical solutions that combine respect for tradition and cutting-edge technology. The plinth design is inspired by the catenary curve, one of the great inventions of the Renaissance, giving it greater structural rigidity and offering a surprisingly precise musical experience.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Gorgeous looks and solid build, reminiscent of great belt-driven decks from the 1980s
- Stability akin to a direct-drive unit
- The plinth structure adds mass and rigidity without introducing excessive resonance
- Delivers exceptional performance that translates to remarkable sonic accuracy (low wow and flutter, rumble)
- Melodious nature, with excellent control and musical depth
Product Considerations
- Limited anti-skate adjustment
- Stubby tonearm finger lift
- Careful setup is required for optimal performance
- Size may require substantial shelf space
- Some cartridges require a higher amount of anti-skate
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Recalled an old Linn Sondek LP12 from the 1980s in tonally rich and melodious signature, the focus is on the rhythm rather than the drama
Takeaway: The Giglio turntable is a great choice for people who love music and want a beautiful, well-made piece of equipment that sounds amazing and brings out the best in their record collection. It's an investment in excellent music listening that will bring enjoyment for years.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Adjustable metal feet, a heavier damped aluminum platter, and VTA adjustment for cartridge upgrades.
- Upgraded tonearm with carbon fiber and aluminum for better damping and higher effective mass.
- Well-built, and parts feel sturdy.
- A mildly warm and smooth midrange presentation that complements vocals, acoustic guitars, and string instruments.
- A well-balanced-sounding turntable.
Product Considerations
- Does not have a built-in phono preamp.
- As a belt-driven turntable, the belt may need occasional replacement.
- Lacks convenience features like auto start/stop and tone arm return.
- The anti-skate weight installation was kind of a pain.
- Bass response is not as agile, detailed, or dynamic as some other cartridges, like the Ortofon 2M Blue.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs U-Turn Audio Orbit: Better built and uses more robust materials.
- Vs Fluance RT85: The Pro may use nicer components and have a more upscale finish, but the RT85 performs better.
- Vs Pro-Ject Debut EVO: The midrange is more relaxed, where the EVO sounds like it's trying too hard to perform.
- Vs Rega RP3: A wider soundstage and is sweeter in the upper mids.
- Vs Roksan Attessa: The midrange and treble don't reach the heights of the Roksan, but the bass has more weight.
Takeaway: The Debut Pro is a well-built turntable that offers an audiophile-grade experience, making it a great option for enjoying a record collection. Its design allows for future upgrades.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Smooth and easy to use, making listening to records very accessible
- Delivers a rich and rhythmic performance
- Comprehensive set of features including built-in phono stage and Bluetooth connectivity
- Impressive sound quality, particularly with vocals and detail retrieval
- Classy and solid build quality
- Built-in phono stage makes it more versatile and easier to integrate into a wider range of systems
- Excellent pitch stability thanks to the direct-drive motor
- Easy setup
- High-quality cartridge included (Alva MC)
Product Considerations
- Bluetooth operation can be erratic or offer a lower quality sound compared to wired connections
- Some rivals offer more excitement and dynamic expression
- Limited upgrade scope
- The detachable headshell has slight free-play in the arm bearings
- Performance is better with a wired connection
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rega Planar 6: The Rega Planar 6 offers more rhythmic drive and dynamic expression, while the ALVA TT V2 offers convenience
- Vs Pro-Ject Xtension 10: The Alva matches the more expensive Pro-Ject deck for precision and focus, but the Pro-Ject gives a bigger, more voluminous sound that's slightly more open and less constrained
- Vs Technics SL1200GR: The Alva TT V2 is less effortlessly propulsive than the Technics
- Vs Pro-Ject Classic Evo: The Alva TT V2 has a more flowing presentation
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 is a thoughtfully designed and well-made turntable, offering a great balance of convenience and performance, thanks to its built-in features like a phono stage and Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to enjoy vinyl records without fuss. It is a great option for those new to vinyl or wanting a high-quality, user-friendly experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Easy to setup and use
- Has auto-stop with auto-tonearm lift capability
- Features a rumble-free, quartz-stabilized direct-drive motor
- Solid build quality
- Comes pre-mounted with an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge from the factory
Product Considerations
- The arm does not lift up very high
- Some reviewers wished the finish was more matte than gloss
- The included phono stage is merely okay, an external one is recommended for better sound quality
- The lead-out grooves on some records were too far from the spindle to trigger the auto-stop feature
- The dynamics are more safe than engaging
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Reviewers preferred the Dual over the Pro-Ject Debut Pro because of the 2M Blue cartridge and direct-drive convenience
- A reviewer preferred the Dual over the Fluance RT85 for its built-in phono preamp, better speed control, direct-drive, and auto-stop
- Both the Dual and the Technics SL-1500C are direct drive tables, but the Dual gives you more for your money because of the cartridge
- Rega Planar 3/Elys 2 rivals offer greater subtlety and more engaging dynamics and rhythmic drive
Takeaway: The Dual CS618Q is a well-rounded turntable that is easy to use and offers good features like direct drive and auto-lift. The sound is balanced and clear.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The SL-1500C is easy to set up and use, making it a no-fuss option for beginners.
- Features a robust, well-engineered build quality and hefty, inert aluminum platter that rejects resonance.
- Includes a built-in phono stage that's considered very good and switchable, offering flexibility with different audio systems.
- It has precise timing and dynamics, sounding alive and expressive with sharp focus and energetic delivery.
- Features an auto-lift function that can be switched on or off for user convenience.
Product Considerations
- The tonearm lifting mechanism isn't as sturdy as the SL-1200, and could be improved.
- Some reviewers feel the stock Ortofon 2M Red cartridge may not be the best match, and recommend upgrades.
- While the built-in phono stage is good, dedicated outboard phono preamps can provide a significant improvement in sound quality.
- Some reviewers feel that the look isn't audiophile enough, because it retains the look of a DJ table.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rega Planar 3: The Rega is subtler and more insightful, but the SL-1500C is crisper with better-defined leading edges and better bass.
- Vs MoFi StudioDeck: The SL-1500C offers a slight sonic shift in focus to upper register details and feels faster, while the MoFi has greater weight and richer timbre.
Takeaway: The Technics SL-1500C is a well-built, easy-to-use turntable that provides a great vinyl listening experience thanks to its robust design and precise sound. It's a great option for those wanting a fuss-free turntable with a built-in phono stage, with room for upgrades in the future.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The basic X2 belt driven design offers three speeds, including a round belt supplied specifically for 78rpm play
- Electronic speed control at 33.3, 45, and 78 RPM is provided
- A 9-inch carbon/aluminum tonearm, which allows for VTA and azimuth adjustments, and an almost 5 pound, 1.18-inch thick acrylic platter are included
- A magnetically fixed tonearm cradle ensures the security of the arm
- Options and choices are offered with both single-ended and mini-XLR balanced sockets
Product Considerations
- Partial disassembly is required to change the rubber drive belt in order to use the 78rpm speed
- The acrylic platter means you should not place a mat on top of it, otherwise you are fighting what the platter does best—draining vibration to lower the noise floor
- Potential buyers won't necessarily use it with the Darlington Labs S3 B, as it is not included when purchasing the product, only the X2 B turntable
- It ships with a moving-magnet cartridge that is intended for a single-ended connection
- Some have noted that you may want to consider an external stylus downforce gauge due to the difficulty in achieving the zero balance of the arm
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The X2 B's tonearm tube is a touch wider than the X1
- Compared to the Thorens TD 160 HD, the Pro-Ject had a more powerful motor
- The X2 B offers an excellent package for a consumer looking for a mid-tier 'table, compared to the Roksan Attessa turntable
- The Pro-Ject X2 B goes from being a very good turntable to a rather exceptional table that can compete with some tables in the $2,000 to $3,000 range, compared to the Debut PRO
Takeaway: The X2 is a versatile turntable that gives you options for balanced or unbalanced connections, plus it's made with good quality parts. The X2 offers upgrade options and choices over time.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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