Origin Live Tonearms

@noromance Actually didn't know how right you were. However, I've decided to wait until I can afford the Encounter. I believe I'd be much happier with that arm than either the Silver or the Zephyr. Also, I just upgraded my renderer/streamer so I need time to absorb the financial impact. Thanks!

I have become familiar with the Encounter and the Illustrious, through being demonstrated them in use on another's owned system.

I have only heard them in use with a Sumiko Pearwood Cart', but can assure you, there is a very good presentation from this match, one that I class as very engaging and with lots of attraction.

I have a Silver on my Sota Escape and I think it is pretty nice.   It is much better than the Rega RB300 I had in the past.   Five year warranty is pretty good too

@goofyfoot I agree with your thoughts on looking to save for the Encounter.  This is the beginning of the Origin Live arms with their dual pivot bearings.  I have had an original Silver, Encounter, Illustrious, and now have a dual arm setup with a new Conqueror mk4 and Enterprise mk4.  The Encounter can handle most cartridges well that are not low compliance and provides better adjustability IMO.  It was my primary arm for a few years and it performed well with a Cartridgeman MusicMaker3, Benz Ebony H (retipped by soundsmith), and Ortofon Cadenza Bronze.  

@drrsutliff Given you've tried those OL tonearms and have a good opinion of the Encounter is encouraging. As mentioned, my sole purpose for this table is to make it a dedicated mono turntable with a very good cartridge, so I expect that the vertical tracking of this arm will handle grooves that present themselves with much of the difficulty I am currently experiencing. Especially titles involving piano.

@pindac I've also read that this tonearm sounds neutral and tracks effortlessly, giving a very natural presentation. I believe that's what sold me.