What tonearm will better mine?


I have been running a 12" Jelco SA750L with an upgraded Decca Super Gold on a Garrard 401 for a few years. I'm happy with the sound and happy with my pre, power and speakers. (Croft 25R, EICO HF35s, -good tubes, Quad 57).
I keep hearing that my tonearm is a weak link even though it sounds pretty awesome to me. What would it take to replace the Jelco and make a significant improvement? What should I expect to hear better? Would I have to drill the massive plinth? Thanks.
128x128noromance

Showing 1 response by ivanj

I’ve had many Deccas over the years in various arms. I think "boazro1" has it right with the Graham arm. I’m sure they have an an arm wand that will have the correct weight for the cartridge. The arm, as I recall, has variable damping that can be a boon for Deccas. The SME V has this feature too and I have heard such a set up with a Decca that was magical. ( The dealer should make sure the cartridge - any cartridge -has the correct azimuth before selling it to you.) Also, I understand that the Deccas need to be loaded differently (Ohms) than conventional 47KOhms so you may want to get that correct before trying new tonearm cables. I always find I like to do upgrades incrementally it increases enjoyment over the long term.
I have used several series 9 Ikeda (of Fidelity Research fame) cartridges that are a "moving coil Decca" with wonderful results. Unfortunately, the new Ikeda company will no longer be offering them. However, their new tonearms are supposed to be an update of the (rare) FR -64 and I have no reason to doubt that.