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better tonearm for SME 20/2

Hi-

I'm purchasing an SME 20/2 turntable, and am trying to decide between a used SME V or a Graham 2.2 tonearm. I'd probably have the tonearm setup done by a shop experienced w/ the table/tonearm(s). I'd appreciate any feedback from owners of SME tables on their experiences w/ either or both of these arms.

I'm also trying to decide between a benz or lyra cartridge in the $1200-2K range. My other gear includes Ayre electronics plus Vandersteen 5 speakers, but my primary question regards the tonearms.

Thanks!
aubullience
mooner06a5
2 posts
 
I also use the model 20 and have found the V, with VDH Condor, to be an excellent match. I have a Graham armboard for the SME and will trying my friend's 2.2 on it over xmas.

Raul, By static balanced you mean using the counter weight as opposed to the spring??

Mooner.
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rauliruegas
12,848 posts
 
Dear mooner: That's right.

Regards and enjoy the music.
raul.
aubullience OP
23 posts
 
Hey, everyone-
Thanks very much for your feedback; it helped me w/ my decision, which was to go ahead w/ the SME V.

Now I just have to decide on a cartridge for under 2K or so. I've heard good things about the Benzes, Lyras, Koetsus, and the Dynavector XX 2 has also been recommended to me.

Any feedback on these cartridge lines would be GREATLY appreciated. I'm looking for something that's neutral- not lush, but not analytical at the expense of musicality either. I listen to a wide variety of classical music, much of it orchestral (mb 40-50% of my collection), in addition to rock (30%), w/ world music, r & b, & jazz making up the remainder of my listening in about equal proportions.

Rob
peterayer
1,382 posts
 
Rob,
For $1,500 you could try a Sumiko Celebration. I have one on a SME V and SME Model 10 table. I read that the cartridge was designed using the SME 30/V combo. The synergy is truely excellent! The sound is slightly warmer than neutral but it sounds wonderful with classical and jazz. Perhaps Raul can add his thoughts regarding this cartridge.
Peter
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rauliruegas
12,848 posts
 
Dear Aubullience: I agree with Peter advice. The Sumiko Celebration is a great performer on its own but happen that during its voicing was mounted on a SME V tonearm this fact means that this tonearm is the best match for the Celebration and it can easily outperform some of the Lyra's/ Koetsu's and other more expensive cartridges.

Btw Peter : my experience with the Celebration is of a neutral tonal balance but maybe this subject is system dependent specially with the Phonolinepreamp, I can asure you that though the Essential 3150 is dead neutral and lovely performer. Highly recomended!!!

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
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