Comparison of sonic qualities of some tonearms

A "scientific" approach is only possible if you have a calibrated instrument that does the listening itself.  Which of course is not going to fly.  In the end, we are stuck with subjective impressions.

@lewm 

Yes, I think this sums it up nicely, which is why I was interested in hearing other peoples' experiences with various tonearms, as theory can only take us so far.  As I listen to more tonearms, I will add to this thread in a more meaningful manner, but I'll probably try one new tonearm every year or two, so my input will be rather minimal.  

@dogberry 

I think @pindac is our resident quantum philosopher to whom all things are possible at all times, but only if not directly observed. . . 😉

Try listening to those files - there is a clear difference between some of them

Based on my own experiments, I think that it is possible that SAT is varying the rigidity / damping trade-off. File 1 is insufficiently damped, File 5 is insufficiently rigid, IMO. I think that 2-4 hit the sweet spot, and your preference depends on your taste. I think that I could listen to #2 all night without fatigue (well damped with good rigidity), maybe #4 (more rigid), but not  3 (least damped but most rigid).

My own wands would sound most like #2 (natural fibre composites) and #3 (sapphire), or so I suspect. Thanks for posting @2channel8 . I wouldn't have thought it possible.

@dogberry I clearly state endlessly that I attempt to make references to my experiences only.

If I do add experiences not directly observed, it will only be about comments I received about an extension of experience I had prior to the one being updated on, with content supplied from individuals whom I have come to trust substantially in audio related topics.

@dogberry 'write' and 'wink' your inaccuracies as you please, I have nothing to prove, my time on here is solely to offer another forum member, a alternative way to consider when looking to learn or make changes.

I am successful at that, I can assure you, even though it is most likely blind to yourself.     

Quantum mechanics is an anti-philosophy.

@terry9 Those files are rigged. I know the Atlas SL real well. I am listening to one as we speak playing Alice in Chains, "Dirt." @lewm is correct, "something is broken." I might also add that Mr Fremer suffers from severe presbycusis according to people who know him well. You might notice that he has a tendency to talk really loudly, a sure sign. 

I have a calibrated instrument that I use to measure and adjust my system. I highly recommend it. 

@drbond I think that description best fits mahgister. @pindac  is into string theory. His speakers are so efficient he wires them with string, Egyption cotton sounds best