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Why Do 12" Tonearms Cost So Much More Than 9"?

For example, the Tri-Planar 12" arm is $3600 more than the 9" version.  SME tonearms are similarly priced.  
Is it really that much more costly to develop the longer tonearms?  
128x128snackeyp
lewm
13,228 posts
 
Lingo, Yes, it is wrong for a true audiophile to be happy, ever.  Now you've figured that out, you can become a member of the club.  We meet with Dr. Kevorkian once a month.
jperry
2,454 posts
 
If you look at Ikeda tonearms the premium for a 12 inch tonearm is less than 10% of the price

IT-345CR1   9 inch arm (chrome) $6,900
IT-407CR1 12 inch arm (chrome) $7,400

elliottbnewcombjr
5,562 posts
 
Ikeda long only +10%, True, not much more at all compared to others in the thread. If you think the 9" is worth 7K.

I love the look/design of the Ikeda arm, just have no way I can part with $7,500. I am thinking, wed is my 72nd birthday, in 3 years I will be 75, that would be quite a prize, let's see if I inherit some money I don't know about!

Even then, found money, $7,500?
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