Looking to upgrade my tonearm


I'v'e got a Michell Gyrodec and I am currently using a plain RB300. with a Clear Audio Arum Beta. I'm budget conscious and price is an object but I am considering an SME 309 or the new VPI JMW 9 which is supposed to fit in Rega openings. Does anyone know how good the SME 309 is or isn't and whether it's better than the other tone arm I mentioned. Also any suggestions on arms to match with the table arm combo I have mentioned. I want an arm that won't be too much of a hassle to set up but that will be an upgrade in sound from the RB 300.

Thanks.
ejcj

Showing 1 response by sdcampbell

You aren't specific about your budget, but one tonearm that you should consider is the new Rega RB1000. The arm is a fairly complete re-design of the RB900. I have not seen any reviews of the arm yet, but I've corresponded with several people in England who have auditioned the RB1000 and they have given it high marks.

Here are two Web sites that have info about the the RB1000:
http://www.rega.co.uk/html/p9.htm
http://www.audiosynthese.ch/rega/p9.html

I know someone who can get the arm from England and will sell it for about $1275 (MSRP is supposed to the $1595). If you are interested in more info, drop me a private E-mail.)