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Graham Phantom1, Kuzma Stogi Ref, Naim ARO

Hello Everyone, I am in the final rounds of selecting a tonearm upgrade for my Verdier/SME3012 combination. Somehow I am unable to make up my mind. I have drilled down to these arms as the final short list within my budget of $2k

Naim ARO (used)
Graham Phantom1 (used)
Kuzma Stogi Ref (used)
Rega RB1000 (new)
Fidelity Research FR64 (used)
Scheu Classic
EMT 929

The cartridge I will be using is a Dynavector Karat 17D3. I am not sure how people choose tonearms in general. My TT should be able to host any of these arms well. So it boils down to which tonearm can handle the Karat well I guess. I normally listen to all kinds of music with preference to classic rock so I like my music to be full and lively with good PRAT.

Would really appreciate some input here. I know I still have to buy blind but your inputs will help me big time in at least eliminating few of these from the list.
pani

Showing 2 responses by sarcher30

sarcher30
596 posts
 
I agree with Syntax and Brf. The adjust ability of the Phantom and Triplanar are top notch. You can also upgrade to the newest versions when you can afford it. If you can find a used Reed 2A it has the same adjustments and is a very good arm as well.

I have not heard the FR-64 but I am intrigued by it. It is a cheaper option and by all reports is a very good arm.

sarcher30
596 posts
 
Pani, If you can afford it get an arm with easily adjustable VTA, VTF, and Azimuth. The Rega is the least adjustable arm. If you get a Rega make sure to get an after market VTA adjuster for it. I would skip the Naim for the reason you stated (fixed headshell holes). With the ARO unless you happen to have a cartridge with the right mounting hole to stylus distance then your alignment will not be as accurate as it could be. Why limit your cartridge selection?

Sure, people can and do get by without these adjustments but they are not getting the most out of their cartridges IMO.

From what I understand the FR-64fx is a different animal than the FR-64s. Everything I've read says that the FX-64s is the one to get. Maybe someone with personal experience with both will chime in.

Your not going to find an arm with a 100% approval rating.;) You will just have to pick one and go from there.
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