Ortofon as309s or sme m2-12r

I chose the SME, particularly for SPUs, and I've been happy. Many users of the Ortofon arm say the same. I've never heard it myself. Searches of Analog threads here will get you more info on both. Good luck.

I'll add that an important advantage of the SME (to me, anyway) is its easy VTA adjustment via an integral thumbwheel. Taking it a step further, I've made these adjustments easily repeatable for different record thicknesses by placing some rudimentary markings on the base and wheel (on applied paper). I know where to set for 140g, 160g, 180g LPs, and it takes all of 15 seconds to make the change. Many feel VTA adjustment is unnecessary, especially with a 12-inch arm. I find it crucial for best sound, and it's one reason I chose the SME. YMMV.

Doesn't the Ortofon arm use the grub screw on the pillar method for VTA adjustments, in which you loosen the screw and manually slide the pillar up and down? To me, that's not very convenient. I prefer methods that are mechanically controlled for fine, repeatable changes.

Like I said above, I haven't heard the Ortofons and they certainly have a lots of happy users. My SME M2-12R (with an upgraded phono cable; the supplied one is not so good) holds its own next to a Triplanar VIIuii and Phantom Supreme in my system. I certainly wouldn't say its better than those arms, but it's not far behind, and I find myself listening to it just as often.

I'll add that the thing that put me off the Ortofon when I was shopping for a 12-inch arm for SPUs is the odd geometry, which disallows two null points with SPUs. I think you can overcome this issue by rotating the cartridge in the headshell, but not for SPUs. Now, whether this oddity really makes a sonic difference, I surely do not know.