Tonearm Options for Basis 2800

I don't know if the vacuum clamp is retrofittable to any table, but, it is the other great option on Basis tables. The vacuum holds the record very firmly to the platter which dampens/drains vibrational energy from the stylus tracking the groove and prevents that energy from feeding back into the cartridge. This improves the clarity of the sound. The most obvious difference that the clamp makes is with how much it supresses the effect of clicks and pops. Clicks and pops are very momentary events, but, with some tables/arms, the sonic effect is more obvious because of ringing (resonance) that is not quickly dissipated. Basis tables, particularly with the vacuum clamp, substantially minimize such ringing from clicks and pops.

Perhaps, the downside of such good resonance control is that Basis systems tend to sound "darker" and not as lively as tables that ring more. I can see why some listeners would prefer tables that sing a little more --this really is a matter of taste and system tuning. I heard a Linn table with the Naim ARO arm in a system that normally featured a Basis 2500/Vector 3 setup. The Linn/Naim system did sound livelier and more exciting in a system that needed a bit of perking up. But, I am not sure that, even in this system, I would like the extra liveliness in the long run. In some respect that liveliness was artificial and clangorous.

The point I am making is that choices still come down to matters of taste and system matching and that there is no absolute "best."

No, Basis is the BEST!!! :)
Totally agree, of course. I haven't heard a ton of tables but I find the 2800 V4 combo to sound very lively and have 0 issues on that front.
The came with the vacuum and it is a remarkable feature. I live in a pretty small apartment and haven't had a chance to move the pump and that isn't even a big deal. I tend to like music on the slightly louder side and the pump noise disappears pretty quickly.

Pops the Vector 4 is great and I know you will enjoy it. The 9 is over kill as far as price is concerned, but it does play at another level.

Jmw, I'm waiting for the Superarm 9 version 2 to come out, so when you upgrade to that I can buy your 9 used :)

Nice try but I don't change my equipment that often. I had the original Vector arm and never upgraded to the 4 and enjoyed it for all these years.