Dan, I looked at 10 or so google'd sites and they almost all just 
cut'n'paste the VPI product page.  Here's one that makes the situation 
clearer, but it's the only one I found.

<http://www.elusivedisc.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HW-TNTST> says "top 
plate not included."

On 6/11/2012 10:52 AM, Daniel Roth wrote:
> Greetings ARSCLIST,
>
> I'm caught in a product mis-information/vague representation issue involving the purchase of the VPI turntable stand (product link here: https://id18536.securedata.net/audiomax-ltd.com/merchantmanager/product_info.php?products_id=219).
>
> Apparently the stand is comprised of three separate pieces. However, no vendor website makes that explicitly clear. The result: I ordered two stands and have no top plates on which to set my Rondine 3 turntables, and no tungsten balls with which to isolate said top plate. I'm now looking at spending an additional $800 above the original $600 spent on the stand bottom. Challenge: See if you can locate any wording in the above link that states there are two (2) additional pieces to purchase if you want this item functional.
>
> Any recommendations on a functional turntable stand and a retailer who can be clear about advertising what is needed to make a complete unit would be greatly appreciated.
>
> Additionally, what amount should be invested in a turntable stand? It is understood that the sky can be the limit, however, I'm seeking real-world input.
>
> Thank you in advance for your consideration.
>
> Dan
>
> ------
> Dan Roth
> Audio Technician
> Walter J Brown Media Archives and Peabody Awards Collection
> Richard B. Russell Special Collections Building
> University of Georgia
>

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