I first used the 309 as it came with my SME Model 10/A table. After a couple of years, I upgraded to the V arm. The difference to my ears was in the bass performance. The V was deeper and more defined/articulate/nuanced. This may be due to the better bearings on the V, the dynamic balance, or the fixed headshell. The dynamic balance dial allows for much easier very small adjustments to VTF. The dissadvantage is a lack of azimuth adjustment with the fixed headshell and easy cartridge swapping. The internal wiring is also said to be better on the V. The sliding mounting base of the V is slightly easier to adjust overhang. To sum up, there are both sonic and functional differences between the two arms. I use the Hovland MG2 tonearm cable.
All that being said, for the extra 2K used price, I might put it toward a better cartridge first and do the arm upgrade second. The Stereophile review of the SME 10/A notes a big improvement in arm upgrade to the IV.vi.
All that being said, for the extra 2K used price, I might put it toward a better cartridge first and do the arm upgrade second. The Stereophile review of the SME 10/A notes a big improvement in arm upgrade to the IV.vi.