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SME V arm: dynamic VTF or straight weight

I am using an SME V arm and wonder if anyone has compared the sound using the dynamic VTF (i.e. setting the dial to 2.0g) versus setting the dial to 0.0g and simply using the counterweight and an accurate scale to set VTF at 2.0g. Is there a sonic difference and what is the theory behind one versus the other?

I would think that using the latter method moves the counterweight closer to the arm's pivot point and effects how the bearing is loaded and possibly also the moment of enertia of the arm.

I have briefly tried to hear a difference, but couldn't and plan to do a more controlled comparison. Anyone's own experience would be appreciated. Thanks.

Peter
peterayer

Showing 4 responses by albertporter

albertporter's avatar
albertporter
4,949 posts
 
I too am very interested in responses to this question, I was thinking about posting the same topic last week.

SME has the new V-12 tonearm, likely available in a few weeks. The current SME 312S is identical mass, identical construction (Magnesium) and identical bearings and internal wire.

The V-12 has the dynamic VTF Peter describes (above) and the 312S does not. I'm trying to decide how much if any this impacts performance.
albertporter's avatar
albertporter
4,949 posts
 
Jea48, interesting idea. I've read somewhere that best results with SME is splitting the difference. In other words, apply half the track force with spring and half with weight.

If I had one here I would do the experiment. My 312S has no spring so no choice with it.

The flaw I see with the new SME V-12 is the non detachable head shell does not provide for azimuth adjustment of the cartridge. I don't know if I can give that up to achieve the (supposedly) extra rigidity.
albertporter's avatar
albertporter
4,949 posts
 
Regarding tiny VTA adjustments: The biggest problem with the SME V design is the difficulty of adjusting height. Every time I try it, the arm column moves slightly out of vertical because the VTA screw is off center and I have to recheck azimuth.

This is not the case with any of the (5) SME 312S tonearms I own or have set up. Wonder what the difference is?
albertporter's avatar
albertporter
4,949 posts
 
Peter,

The SME 312S has removable head shell, so the collet may be loosened and the head shell twisted to obtain proper azimuth. Once set I've loosened the post in the rear to change VTA and never experienced any "shift" in azimuth after raising or lowering the arm.
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