2. analog
  3. 151931-74884

SME and OL tonearms....

I currently own an OL Zephyr but thinking about upgrading to something better with a 2k budget in mind. May possibly go the used route. Been thinking about the SME but have no personal experience with that line. Can I get some opinions on the differences between the SME 309, 310 or M2 series and the premium lineup of Origin Live tonearms like the Encounter, Illustrious or Conqueror?
teleos

Showing 2 responses by chakster

chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
SME have a knife-edge bearings, it is not good for many cartridges.
Look for Reed tonearms or Kuzma if you’re looking for something really great and new.
Reed 3p is my favorite modern tonearm (available in 9 inch, 10.5 or 12 inch) 
chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
I would highly recommend you to look for good used Reed 3P tonearm, because no other tonearm will give you full adjustment of your cartridge (not only VTA on the fly, but an Azimuth on the fly). Unique modern design and superb quality from Europe. Single wire from the cartridge pin to your phono stage. The new one is very expensive, but used '9 or '10.5 sample is something you can find for $2k probably.   
More to discover