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Silly turntable question

(The question, not the TT!)

I'm assembling a turntable setup, slowly over time.
At this point I have an SP-10 with the factory
obsidian plinth/cover. I have a new SME-V for it
that I bought about 6 years ago (I did say slowly). It's
not even set up yet, let alone having been listened to.

Now, I've gotten the idea in my head that I want a 12-inch
arm instead, the SME-312. THAT would mean selling the
obsidian plinth and buying something custom, as well as
buying the new arm.

I'm willing to admit that I must surely have some mental
quirk to want this change, untested.

Even so, I humbly ask you, what could I expect soundwise
if I followed through with this proposed upgrade ?
Subtle improvements ? How subtle ?
Or, should I just be happy with what I have ?

Speakers are DIY custom built, amps are Brystons,
listening room is way too small.

"Do you think I'll be happy ?" What a question.
noslepums

Showing 2 responses by peterayer

peterayer
1,382 posts
 
I agree with those who suggest that you simply get started. However, to answer one of your questions: there is quite a difference between the 9" and 12" SME arms. I spent two weeks directly comparing the SME V to the SME V-12 on an SME 30/12 table using the same cartridge and cable.

Moving up to the 12" arm was like going from a highly resolving two-way compact speaker to a three-driver, three-way floor standing speaker. Extension and weight improved as expected. But unlike with some such speaker changes, there was absolutely no less coherence or sense of balance. There was just more information presented in a cleaner and clearer way and there seemed to be less distortion. IMO, well worth the cost to upgrade.

But changing the plinth and selling your unused SME V just to accommodate a new 12" arm may be more hassle and expense than it's worth right now. Check your priorities, get started, and join the fun.
peterayer
1,382 posts
 
Noslepums, My post above was written under the assumption that the 12" SME arm you are contemplating is the SME 312S, though you wrote "312". The 312S is a new generation magnesium arm based on the SME IV. It differs from the V-12 by having a removable headshell (convenient for cartridge swapping and azimuth adj.) and by also having dynamic VTF adjustment. For me, the latter is more important than the former, but for others, maybe not. I'm not familiar with the 312.

Albert Porter has the 312S arm and is getting a V-12 for comparison. I've never heard the 312S. I agree with everyone else that the length of your arm should be of a lower priority to others for getting started. Set up what you have and enjoy some records. Then go from there.

If you follow Raul's advice for a nude SP10 with an arm on an arm pod, then switching to a 12" arm later should not be an issue besides adjusting for the new alignment. Have some fun.
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