SME 3009 II (improved) won't balance with Shure V15 III


So ... I'm working on a Garrard 301 project and just installed a new-to-me SME 3009 II (improved) tonearm on which I attached a Shure V15 cartridge. I know that this cart and arm are essentially made for each other, but when I begin the setup process, I can't get past the first, most basic step. Even with the balance weight screwed in as close as possible (applying no extra upward weight), the cartridge end tips way UP when I release it from the arm rest. No adjustment I make will get the arm to come down into a balanced position.

I've never encountered this with a tonearm before, and I'm new to owning an SME. 

I'm pretty sure I've check all the "D'oh! How could I be so stupid?" things I could be doing wrong. I'm baffled.  Anyone have any ideas? 

Thanks in advance!

 

dcindc

Showing 1 response by dekay

From memory the effective mass of the II/Improved is 6.5 grams (maybe 7.5 - too lazy to look it up) for the fixed head shell version and 9.5 (certain on this) for the detachable head shell version.

Both are excellent choices for the V15 series as is the 12.5 gram non-improved SME arm.

I've owned and used all of them with the sure V15/III (tried the IV, but went back to the III).

I currently use an SME 3009II/non-improved on a Thorens TD125II, though with a Grado cartridge.

The only upgrade I rec for the old SME arms is  to have the wiring updated to something better.

 

DeKay