2. analog
  3. 1384052062

SME 20/3 and an MC Anna

Ok looks like I have decided on this combo unless someone can convince me on something else.

I considered the AMG, looks like a great table but is it over hyped being new and cool looking and having an unusual bearing in the tonearm to create even more interest. What I find strange about the bearing is that arm has a resonate frequency when the arm is balanced at zero grams with the bearing being a spring. So you end up with two resonate frequencies the cartridge's suspension and the arm's bearing. Is this what makes the table sound different. Maybe this is a good thing or is it creating a problem (coloration) that we happen to like.

The SME 20/12 with a V12 arm is another, yes another great choice but can't afford.
royaloak

Showing 1 response by peterayer

peterayer
1,382 posts
 
As an extremely pleased SME owner, I think you have made an excellent choice with the 20/3. This is the highest-value table in the SME line up from what I can tell. I did do an extensive comparison between the SME 9" and 12" V arms and prefer the latter by quite a margin. You could consider looking for a good used 20/12. That should cost about the same as a new 20/3.

I have not heard the MC Anna. However, for another cartridge suggestion: I own and simply love the AirTight Supreme on the SME arms. This is an excellent combination in part because the Supreme was designed on an SME arm. You could also contact Albert Porter for his thoughts on this great combination.
More to discover