SME tonearms on a japanese market


Good day! With a plan to add another tonearm to have a backup for my Sumiko tonearm I recently did browse the ebay and realized there is a big selection of SME tonearms mostly 3009 in the range of 400-500$, and even IV and V under 2600$. Is there any polytical connotation in the fact or I just have not been there for a while (which is very true)? I was considering between Jelco and SME but now I am so very positive about the latter. Thanks for the feedback

 

anatoliy

Visualize a knife, edge up, placed transversely across the armtube. Now, fit the armtube in a metal block with a presisely machined 'V' groove that is placed on the knife edge and balanced. You have now created a stable, extremely low-friction, rattle-free vertical knife- edge bearing, just like SME.

It's also quite durable, unless you drop it and damage the knife edge. A point to remember when buying or shipping an SME arm - it must be blocked up and preferably removed from the plinth and laid sideways to protect the knife edge.

Do note, there are Analogue Source users within this Forum and others, where it is no secret their funds seem unlimited  for the value of ancillaries that can be purchased. 

There are a few of these types with serious spending opportunies, that are using Vintage Knife Edge Bearing designs on Tonearm in use. 

Thank you all. The fedback was helpful to ironout the decision. Received the Jelco 850S 9'' today. Looks impressive. I like the counterweight :) and how it slides on the stem. Now to the mounting setup. I want to mount and try both Amber The Tribute and Acutex that I have. Can't wait!