I know this an old topic...but Tonearm for Garrard 301 :)

I have been using a Pete Riggle 12" SPU tonearm on my Thorens 124. for the last five years, I use it with three different SPU cartridges, and I really love what it gives me. A rich, full platform, superior when compared to both an old SME and a new Jelco. There are reviews with comparisons to some other contemporary tonearms. It uses a thread bearing and is adjustable in almost every parameter, most of the time on the fly. 

It may be worth looking into:

https://vtaf.com/woody-spu-tonearm.html#/

Thanks everyone!!  

I've got a call into Pete Riggle - the Woody is very intriguing and I love the look paired with the Ortofon SPU.  Man that looks awesome...and the reviews seem to back it all up. Additionally, Pete looks like a great guy who loves what he does...that's always important to me when I make a purchase. I can't imagine he'd have a 4 month wait for a tonearm if they were not good.

Also talked to Steve at VAS in Cliffwood, NJ.  Friend of mine swears by Steve and his wizardry.  

I will be keeping an open mind on this journey.  @lalitk I also talked to DAS, I hope you love your plinth...looks like his work is very good!  I opted for Lee at Acoustand in the UK and I should have my plinth in production once I tell him the tonearm choice. 

Thanks again everyone!   Mike

What cartridge are you considering?  The important match is between the cartridge and the arm.  A local dealer does a lot of refurbishing of 301, 401 and Thorens 124 tables.  He primarily used Ortofon tonearms and Koetsu cartridges. Koetsu went out of business so I don't know what cartridge he will now be recommending, and Ortofon sourced its tonearms from Jelco which also went out of business.  This dealer said that the new source of Ortofon arms (also Japanese) is quite good, but, I don't know what cartridge he will be recommending when his stock of Koetsus runs dry.

Oh looks like your arm board is predrilled for the SME type base. Also looks very nice, and lots of room for the arm/arm wire etc. Should be a great sounding table.

Not sure about a tonearm that is not connected tt the plinth, one bump and your dragging out your alignment protractor. but a very interesting concept, if works well maybe an easier way to add a second arm to my table. 

Audio Creative Groovemaster?  Perfect for SPUs.