SL1200GAE New Tonearm

http://www.theaudiobeat.com/equipment/spiral_groove_centroid.htm

Spiral Groove embraces the same design philosophy as Ralph is espousing. "the bearing interface situated in the same horizontal plane as the stylus resting in the record groove"

https://sme.co.uk/audio/product/series-v/
Likewise with SME’s Type V (which does not use unipivots). "Carried in massive yoke on 10mm ball races. Axis at record mean level to minimise warp-wow."

And although cartridge manufacturers would love for universal-headshell tonearms to become more popular (because that would encourage customers to own more cartridges), many high-quality tonearms, including those mentioned above, do not use removable headshells.

While it is clear that the universal headshell is very convenient for changing cartridges, in terms of mechanical rigidity and the quality of the electrical contacts, it leaves something to be desired.

There are valid reasons supporting either option; there is no need for a specific agenda to be present for someone to have a preference either for or against universal headshell tonearms.

I wish All here would show their conviction in their opinions and do take their own advice.

 I chased the Technics mod since Axpona 2016 when I was the Only one in the room. In minutes, I heard what the Technics could do. I looked it over, talked to the rep. I Knew that I wanted this TT; no matter the look ___ I heard SPEED control, no doubting it and what it conferred to the MUSIC. I knew from 30yrs chasing the High End grail and 45yrs chasing the grail -(15) as a poor ‘phile.

R, I chased this and researched this for 2 years. Do l want to go through all your tweaks? Multiple tonearm  re-wires, multiple headshells, you forgot the “Constant Contact” and all the critical listening. Don’t worry about My money, I will because it is mine.

 I did not buy this rig for looks; although I do like it. Fine Industrial.

SQ,  Plain and simple. A new High End TT at a Bargain price and a true Value in need of great tonearm. IMO 

Waste time and $$$ on tweaks and then buying the the real thing when you realize you could be enjoying?

Not me, I always ask for more.  

Best St to All on this Journey 

Well said Norbert. I agree totally. As far as atmosphere having an agenda good for him i feel as long as vendors are up front and honest and truly believes in what he likes it is all good. Ralph has never tried to sell me anything he just offered his honest opinions which I listened to because he has expierennce with what I am interested in. 

jtsnead,

This Forum might be my only way to communicate today. Computer is totally down and phone is having issues too.  

I did send you photos and tried email too. I don’t know if you received??

Dear @jcarr : """   preference either for or against universal headshell tonearms. """

unfortunatelly my dialogue with atmasphere was and is from a way different subject.

"""  although cartridge manufacturers would love for universal-headshell tonearms to become more popular (because that would encourage customers to own more cartridges), many high-quality tonearms, including those mentioned above, do not use removable headshells. """


Problem is that till today does not exist the " perfect " tonearm design, always we have to deal with trade-offs looking for the " best " trade-offs.

Regards and enjoy the MUSIC NOT DISTORTIONS,
R.