Dr. Feickert Blackbird

Thanks again, this is all amazing feedback. I know that the arm is even more critical than the table...and the cart even more critical.

My original thought for the first arm was the 4Point 9, but now I think I have more research to do. My plan was to upgrade from my first arm and move the first arm to the second position. I like the idea of a removable headshell for Mono or a second less expensive cart for scratchy records that I still love.

I was very curious about the Soundsmith Alto designed by Frank Schroder. Has anyone had experience with this arm?

@alan60 The VIV Labs tonearm is one crazy arm. I am very intrigued!! It also solves the 2 arm problem as it doesn't need to be on the plinth. Good news is we have a lot of great choices right now.

@elliottbnewcombjr Congratulations on that find. Seems like a keeper!

@rsf507 It's great that you were able to A/B these two tables. I'm definitely leaning toward Kuzma. I am trying not to fold and go vintage. I have vintage motorcycles and there is always something that needs attention. I just want to sit and listen to my music.

I use both a Kuzma 4P9 and a vintage FR-64S.  This is my 2 arm combo because it lets me use a wide variety of cartridges from low to medium compliance. The arms have subtle differences in their sound with the Kuzma having higher resolution and clarity and the FR-64S slightly deeper bass definition. The 4P9 is my favorite arm with Ortofon, Lyra and SoundSmith carts.

I am currently demoing a rigid belt drive DC motor system from Galibier, similar to the one used in the Stabi R against my turntables well executed thread drive with an AC motor pod.  Their seems to be a subtle but significant difference with the DC/rigid belt bringing the music forward into the room and sounding a bit more dynamic and Idler like and the AC/thread being a more "silky smooth" sounding drive.     

This all a roundabout way of saying that you should check out a Kuzma Stabi R with a 4P9.