2. analog
  3. 188695-41852

Comparison of sonic qualities of some tonearms

I’m relatively new to the world of vinyl, listening seriously for probably only 2 years.  Of course, many big picture items (e.g. turntable, phono stage, cartridges) are discussed extensively on this forum, but I haven’t seen much discussion comparing different tonearms.  I would be interested to hear about different people’s experiences with different tonearms, mentioning the audible advantages and disadvantages of each tonearm, realizing that there is no perfect sound, although from what I read about others’ experiences, SAT tonearms may come closest, albeit at a very high price.  

drbond
Post removed 
drbond OP
433 posts
 

I just was able to directly compare two different tonearms again, and, again, I am impressed by the difference a tonearm can make!  This time I was able to compare a Schroder CB and a Kuzma 4 point on the same turntable with the same cartridge, and the sonic results are as if I had changed out a major component, such as a pre-amplifier, or amplifier.  (As a reminder, I started this thread by noticing such a similar dramatic change in sound quality when comparing a Schroder CB tonearm with a Reed 5A tonearm.)  

The Schroder CB is an excellent tonearm, but at at half the price of the tonearms that I replaced it with, it perhaps isn't an even comparison:  apparent differences in detail, clarity, and sound stage are most marked.  

In my estimation, the tonearm may have more of an impact on sound quality than the cartridge used.  

pindac's avatar
pindac
2,864 posts
 

@drbond you have stated "In my estimation, the tonearm may have more of an impact on sound quality than the cartridge used".

I would be happy to say the following:

In my estimation, the tonearm does have more of an impact on sound quality than certain cartridges selected to be used.

As said in the past, I own TA's that are now Superseded by another design for a TA, that has made a very big impression on myself.

There are queues of individuals who would jump at the chance to purchase my superseded TA's, under the guise the purchase is a upgrade move for them.

The interesting thing is that Brands have a strong attraction, and the Brand dictates the desirability to purchase. My now go to TA, can be acquired for less than one of the Superseded TA's and a little more than the other Superseded model.

When my other friend who has their own TA Design / Prototypes gets the time set aside. There is a substantial period of TA Comparisons to be had, using same TT > Plinth > Cart's > Support Structure.     

More to discover