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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 2 responses by tzed

tzed's avatar
tzed
10 posts
 
Fascinating thread for me, as I just acquired a Souther SLA-3 the other day.
There has been some hot-tempered debate, some baseless opinion and some pseudo-science; all the elements needed for a real honest-to-goodness internet forum!
There has also been all the elements of a reasoned discussion for which I thank those of you involved on that end.
I look forward to the challenge of getting the best sound I can out my new linear tracker, I'll be experimenting with cartridges of differing compliance as well as differing counter-balance weight placement, etc.
I am thankful there is a marketplace like Audiogon where I will be able to purchase used carts at a big discount over new.
I am thankful Audiogon has this forum where perhaps with your help I will be able to maximize the pleasure I get out of my new arm.
And I'm thankful that if I despair of reaching cloud 10 and can't live on cloud 9, that one of you will purchase my Souther and carry on!
tzed's avatar
tzed
10 posts
 
Thanks Samujohn, should be a fun ride.
I had a B&O 4004 but it was plug 'n' play so obviously a very different beast to the Souther.
I love the idea that there is a human knowledge base available for question answering and advice.
My first hurdle will be mounting the arm to the table....
More to discover