Tone arm length


I assume this question is not brand specific. 

However my question is specifically related to the Clearaudio Innovation Wood with the Universal tonearm, 9 or 12" options. The cost between the two is minimal, but I'd love to hear opinions on why one or the other is preferred.

Thank you.

 

macg19

I have an Innovation [Wood - which is no longer used for the model name]. I have two 12" Universal arms on mine, and I used to have a 9" instead for one of them. Both have Lyra Atlas cartridges. One is the SL (stereo) and the other is the Mono. I use the SMARTTractor alignment tool and Löfgren B DIN alignment for both cartridges, but I spend a bit of time really getting the alignment nailed as perfectly as I can. This is the best sound I have gotten from the TT. I play everything from older (60s/70s) classical records to modern 33 and 45v RPM reissues.

@rauliruegas

I’m not sure what this means? I can see not really " learning "

@dwette @mikelavigne

To Mike’s point #3 (2nd post). I ended up with a MSL Signature Platinum analyzed by JR at Wally Tools and installed the cart to those parameters which included a custom shim to correct for SRA as well as data to adjust azimuth and stylus zenith error.

So I’m pretty confident I ended up maximizing the benefits of the 12" with a much better than average cart alignment.

In any case, I’m done and happy. Stunning amount of never-before-heard detail yet very musical, relaxing presentation.

Cheers all.

@macg19 

congrats on the 12" arm with the MSL Sig Platinum, and having JR optimize it. it's all about being happy after all the effort is rewarded, and now just the music.

enjoy!