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Another “How to choose an arm” question

I currently have a Sota Saphire running an SAEC We317 arm (221mm spindle to pivot and 12 mm overhang).

That is running a Garrott Bros p77i, but I have been looking at some LOMC cartridges, as well as SoundSmith LO-MI, AT ART, etc.

How is one supposed to determine their current arm is good or not?

It sounds fine and I would think that the knife edge design is not prone to a lot of wear.
However it was recommend that I upgrade the arm… But how would I know “to what”, and how would I know if the upgrade is worthwhile?

I was looking at some DD tables to have a more expanded choice of arms that can be mounted, as the Sota is a bit restrictive in that regard. That is still on the cards as a possibility… however assuming that the Sota is a keeper, then how do I determine the arm’s adequacy, being “fit for purpose”?

128x128holmz

Showing 1 response by effischer

effischer
553 posts
 

Another long-term Sapphire owner here, and I'm not sure why @rauliruegas is universally down on uni-pivot tonearms.  My Graham Phantom is certainly an ideal match for my rig and has been bullet-proof reliable as well as easily repeatable for VTA on-the-fly adjustments.  The 9" Supreme version I selected was a drop-in retrofit with a new Sota composite arm board.  Set-up was a snap, too.

I also took advantage of Sota's Series V suspension and bearing/platter upgrade at the same time and couldn't be happier with the overall package.  It's everything I expected in my upgrade from my old Magnepan Unitrac and more versatile by a wide margin.

Hope this helps you in your search and happy listening!

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