Are linear tracking arms better than pivoted arms?


My answer to this question is yes. Linear tracking arms trace the record exactly the way it was cut. Pivoted arms generally have two null points across the record and they are the only two points the geometry is correct. All other points on the record have a degree of error with pivoted arms. Linear tracking arms don't need anti-skating like pivoted arms do which is another plus for them.

Linear tracking arms take more skill to set up initially, but I feel they reward the owner with superior sound quality. I have owned and used a variety of pivoted arms over the years, but I feel that my ET-2 is superior sounding to all of them. You can set up a pivoted arm incorrectly and it will still play music. Linear tracking arms pretty much force you to have everything correct or else they will not play. Are they worth the fuss? I think so.
mepearson

Showing 1 response by gregm

Darkmo
are there cartridges that work equally as well on the two
My experience has been, not really! Perhpas because the cartridge quality parametres for one type of arm are different from those required for the other? I am, of course talking of hi-end cartridges.
Maybe a low compliance, rugged construction cartridge would do just as well -- mechanically -- on either type of arm?

Say the best type of DJ cartridge, or a Denon 103??

My experience is of course, absurd, as on paper this disparity shouldn't exist -- or should it?