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better tonearm for SME 20/2

Hi-

I'm purchasing an SME 20/2 turntable, and am trying to decide between a used SME V or a Graham 2.2 tonearm. I'd probably have the tonearm setup done by a shop experienced w/ the table/tonearm(s). I'd appreciate any feedback from owners of SME tables on their experiences w/ either or both of these arms.

I'm also trying to decide between a benz or lyra cartridge in the $1200-2K range. My other gear includes Ayre electronics plus Vandersteen 5 speakers, but my primary question regards the tonearms.

Thanks!
aubullience

Showing 4 responses by rauliruegas

rauliruegas
13,125 posts
 
Dear Aubullience: Very good TT. In my humble opinion the choice of tonearm depends more of which cartridge you finally own.

If you decide for the Lyra the SME V is a better way to go and if you decide for the SME V ( I prefer the IV ) then try to set-up in a static balanced way.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
rauliruegas
13,125 posts
 
Dear mooner: That's right.

Regards and enjoy the music.
raul.
rauliruegas
13,125 posts
 
Dear Aubullience: I agree with Peter advice. The Sumiko Celebration is a great performer on its own but happen that during its voicing was mounted on a SME V tonearm this fact means that this tonearm is the best match for the Celebration and it can easily outperform some of the Lyra's/ Koetsu's and other more expensive cartridges.

Btw Peter : my experience with the Celebration is of a neutral tonal balance but maybe this subject is system dependent specially with the Phonolinepreamp, I can asure you that though the Essential 3150 is dead neutral and lovely performer. Highly recomended!!!

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
rauliruegas
13,125 posts
 
Dear Abullience: The Celebration retail price is only 1.5K ( and second hand no more than 1K ) and the Titan 5K. I always say it: the SME/Celebration outperforms almost any cartridge 2-3 times its price and put the very top ones in shame in some audio areas.

Now, if the price is no object then you can go to the Allaerts or Audio Note Kondo cartridges.

regards and enjoy the music.
raul.
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