Whats on your turntable tonight?

boxer,

In order for the Vira to track like a linear arm, I assume both rods have a bearing on each end and as the cartridge traces a record, the rods actually move to adjust for tracing error? ..actually you already said that.

I noticed it looked similar to a Thales, but I'd never really investigated those arms.

The Blues Project "Projections" Sundazed/Mono

That is correct. There is still an arc however (minimized due to the 12" tubes) as it doesn't have a cam to keep the pivot on a straight line. The cam idea is actually something I've toyed around with prototyping but there is a MULTITUDE of hurdles to overcome in order for it to work properly. Not sure if Thales is a true linear track or not. It just might be. 

Genesis / Lamb lies down on Broadway 

Does this design put more stress on a cartridge/cantilever/stylus?

Less actually because the tip is always aligned with the groove.