Avid Volvare - SME IV arm or Tri-planar VII ???


I am seriously considering an Avid Volvare table and was led in the direction of an SME IV arm. I have read that the Tri-Planar VII is also a very good choice.

Any experience with either arm and this table? Any suggestions???

I am also looking at the VPI Super Scoutmaster with JMW-9 signature arm and the Clearaudio Ambient turntable with Satisfy arm. Should I stick with the Avid or look into one of the others more seriously?

-Brie
brieshayna
I have a Volvere and love it (SME 309 arm). I have spoken to Conrad Mas (designer/owner) and he recommnends Rega or SME arms. They tend to put energy back into the platter and therefore plays well with the design. Energy then travels from the platter through and out the bearing.

SME arms a breeze to work with and have really good instructions.

Another reason for rega or SME is you bolt them right to the subchassis without using an adaptor/armboard.

the AVID is the way better choice of the TTs you mentioned and in my opinoin better than some that are more $$s. I think Avid are the best suspended tables available.

great frequency extension, low noise, easy setup, well made, impeccable finish, dynamic, midrange depth, great isolation... should I go on.
I have only heard the SME IV on the Volvere and I thought it was a superb match. That said, I chose the Triplanar VII for my Acutus over the SME V and Graham Phantom. I think your choice of cartridge and need for adjustability during play might be the deciding factors for the Volvere. Just to confuse things a little more, I recommend that you give serious consideration to the Super Scoutmaster.
What would make you point me in the direction of the Super Scoutmaster if you are an Avid owner?

My primary reason for leaning towards the Avid is that everyone I have heard from says the VPI gear is a bit tweaky and needs constant fine tuning; while the Avid is truly set it up once and play. I'm not a fidget around with the table kinda guy (not enough time to fidget and listen and I'd rather be listening). I've also heard the Avid is VERY dynamic with great lower frequency extension. I have never heard anyting bad about the Super S.M. but I have heard that the VPI tables can be a bit flat sounding compared to a suspended table...

Is the Triplanar as easy to set up and use as the SME IV?