2. analog
  3. 163952-519

Replacing the SME 10 stock tonearm

I would appreciate any input on this.

My friend has a SME 10 turntable with the stock 309 tonearm. This has a removable headshell, but removing the headshell is not as simple as removing with a standard mount headshell. Due to age he has decreased dexterity and diminished eyesight, so removing the headshell has resulted in some damaged cartridges.

I would appreciate input regarding compatibility and experience replacing the stock arm with a standard mount removable headshell tonearm. I would especially appreciate input on what might be a drop in replacement with a removable standard mount headshell.

I don’t have current easy access to the turntable as my friend lives in a different part of the country. I plan to fly in for a visit and make the change for my friend during my visit. So to the extent I can have what I need and be prepared when I arrive will optimize my opportunity to accomplish this over a weekend. 

Thanks for your help with this

 Jim Perry
jperry
jperry OP
2,448 posts
 
@mijostyn

Thanks for the suggestion and that may work. The SME 10 has a “simplified” mount. So I have to figure out whether it is that easy.

Also, I neglected to mention that if I replace it I was hoping to do so with a higher mass tonearm
lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,440 posts
 
@jperry

Huge props to you for helping your friend. Given his age and health, may be you can pitch him pros of switching to digital streaming. Just my two cents.
jperry OP
2,448 posts
 
@lalitk 

Thanks for the note. I tried that before and set up a Sonus system at his house. I also had a Sonus digital system. The Sonus was a pain, and didn’t sound good enough. I now have a Innous Zen III with a Line Magnetic DAC. It sounds good, but not as good as my analog system.

I might give it another try with something Innous based. Good suggestion

Best Regards,

Jim Perry
wbs
77 posts
 
If I recall correctly Graham arms used to be available with SME-style bases.  I don't know if this is still available.

One other thing to consider if you want to be prepared ahead of time is the phono lead.  SME connectors are rotated 90 degrees from other brands and this could lead to space constraints.  I am not familiar with the SME 10 in this respect so can't comment, but it is something  to think about.

Bill
jperry OP
2,448 posts
 
I will checkout the Graham arms. Thanks
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