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SME V vs 309 Sonic Differences

Hi all,

I've read from a few sources one or two line comments like "The SME 309 gives up surprisingly little" when compared to the SME V. I've also seen a comment "most of the difference is in the tonearm cable." But in trying to nail down the true performance difference I have done numerous searches on both google and AudiogoN and can't seem to come up with anything beyond these one-liners.

Does anyone have experience with both arms that can give some insight? I just committed to an SME 309 and am wondering what it sonically gives up. Based on what it gives up, I'm wondering if the SME V would ever make sense as an upgrade, and what upgrade path exists for the 309 itself as either general improvements or targeted changes to specifically narrow the gap with the V. Any personal experiences with any possible upgrades is also welcome.

(Also, on a side note - I've heard some say the SMEs can be dark or too analytical. Is there any truth to that?)

Thanks everyone!
Greg
gsoravil

Showing 1 response by daverz

daverz
487 posts
 
I have a 309 on my Gyro SE (with the arm decoupler kit). I can't compare to the V, but I can say the 309 sounds neither dark nor analytical.

Compared to an Incognito-wired RB300, it is much less beefy and more refined, sort of like the difference between a pro wrestler and a middleweight boxing champion. Some people might miss the extra fat.

I use an AT33PTG with it, which is a little more compliant than is ideal for this arm (I get a 7Hz lateral resonance frequency), but it's a wonderful sounding combination.

I did replace the stock SME cable with a SigmaAcoustics silver cable. I originally changed it out to get a lower capacitive loading for an MM cart, but was surprised by the difference it made with the moving coil AT33. MCs are not supposed to be sensitive to capacitive loading. . I keep meaning to put the stock cable back to check my perceptions, but haven't gotten around to it.
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