@dogberry I have not suggested any of the Mechanical Interfaces on the 'Viv' are 'Mysterious' but only not 'Typical'. In my case I know quite a lot about the concept and once expressed and interest in producing a robust version of the 'Viv' Floating Pivot.
I am treading carefully, as the subject can kick off another how the Math to prove your point scenario. There is no shortage of 'across forum threads', that cover damping, where Oil usage to control energy transferal within a TA are discussed.
Designs for Tonearms using a Oil Reservoir at a Mechanical Interface, range from the commonly (most likely because Big Brand Names use it) seen and typical Rear End Trough and Paddle, Oil Floating Pivot ( Lesser Seen ), Encapsulated Oil Floating Pivot (maybe only the 'Viv'), Headshell Oil Damping (very rare).
In my Travels and meeting with other Audio Enthusiasts I have been able to be demo'd Oil Floating Pivot Designs. On a few occasions I have been demo'd these on a 'same system' in comparison to same model TT's (Not Same Cart' or Plinthed). From recollection the finished design was inspiring and was able to create good discussion with the producer, from a recollection of the sonic, there was not a presentation I could become attracted to, and the ideas I once had about producing a 12" Floating Pivot TA were quenched.
Now @lewm has pointed out there is a info discovered that leans toward the suggestion, the design was born with the intent to create a 'ultra low friction'. This leaves me much more convinced, there is more than just Geometry being responsible for the positive impression being made.
If ultra low friction is an achieved mechanical property. As a result of my most recent TA experiences, I am confident in my claiming that audibly, there are substantial sonic benefits to be had when this condition is achieved, it is knowing about this condition and the audibly sonic benefits experienced, that encouraged me to have the use of my TA's (that as models have a lot of supporters) Superseded.
To achieve ultra low friction on a conventional TA Design requires many man hours to produce the condition. I am also of the understanding (through receiving demo's) it is the employing the follow up treatments, that substantially emphasise the sonic qualities that can be achieved through the preparation work.
Maybe the 'Viv' Designer has found a way achieve a reasonably affordable TA that boasts an 'ultra low friction', with a methodology that does not require excessive man hours, or excessive costings to achieve the objective?
On this matter, for those who are not knowing, the experience has to be had, just as @lewm has ventured into, (Nothing Ventured - Nothing Gained).
