Comparison of sonic qualities of some tonearms

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 

"Something is broken" on which one? Or rigged? Which is it?

Based on my experiments, all five are plausible with the same cartridge. Not to mention changes in set-up. When changing tonearms, it is impossible not to change the alignment of arm board (or head shell) and cartridge. Azimuth can do some of that, so can VTA. So can countless decisions in tonearm design.

What calibrated instrument do you use? What is it's accuracy? What judgements are required?