PBN Introduces Curvaceous Turntable Based on VPI's Classic Direct Drive

PBN's Peter Noerbaek has long purchased VPI components, particularly the company's stand-alone dual motor/flywheel pods with which he's built sculpted wood turntables.

At T.H.E. Show Newport 2014 he showed a spectacular new direct drive turntable that utilizes the direct drive platter/motor module developed by VPI for its Classic Direct Drive turntable I reviewed recently in Stereophile

Noerbaek's version is both physically gorgeous and appeared to be better damped than VPI's own model. Noerbaek's costs $35,000 without arm. VPI's costs $30,000 with arm. I'm sure it sounds at least as good as the VPI and it looks a whole lot better. I found it difficult to stop looking at it. Judge for yourself.

COMMENTS
HarryW's picture

You could have saved the planet 20,000 gallons of jet fuel and driven down the parkway 40 miles to VPI and seen the first one!!! This is what it needed, not the fact that the speed is perfect (job number one for a turntable) not the fact that the arm does not resonate, no a wood base, that would have done it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Michael Fremer's picture
Some people need cosmetic glory. Some don't.
Ortofan's picture

But it won't play my treasured 78rpm recording of Robert Merrill singing 'Home on the Range.'

I'd rather have a Thorens Prestige - with a gold-plated SME tonearm, or two.

Martin's picture

Any chance of a review?
If it sounds at least as good as the VPI it goes to the top of my list.

Michael Fremer's picture
You can read part I of the VPI 'table here: http://www.stereophile.com/content/vpi-classic-direct-drive-signature-turntable The PBN uses the VPI's "guts" and should sound the same—if fitted with the VPI printed tonearm. The wooden plinth may provide additional mechanical isolation.
vinyl listener's picture

;)

planarhead's picture

Call me crazy, I think the Classic Direct looks better.

AnalogJ's picture

I actually agree. I prefer the classic turntable look over the space age look; though I admit I love the look of Oracle tables.

Paul Boudreau's picture

I'd feel as if I needed to perform an obeisance whilst approaching it!

Jazzfan62's picture

I know Peter. Not only is he a great audio engineer, but a great guy too. Does the table also come in various finishes? Some of the finishes are awesome on his speakers.

pbnaudio's picture

Thanks you for the write up and for the kind words.

The GrooveMaster Direct as well as the belt drive version is available in many different Hardwood species.

Thanks

Peter Noerbaek
PBN Audio

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