Basis Vector 3 vs. Schröder, Triplanar, Graham

I was there for the weekend that Cello mentioned and mostly agree with his ranking. According to my tastes I put the Vector just slightly ahead of the 2.2. But as I recall most of those listening preferred the Graham so I was in the minority. I also have compared the Graham and Vector outside that event and found both arms very close sonicly. The Graham takes the honors for ergonomics and setup and the Vector has the price advantage. However, all of the Schroders (including the model 2) and the Triplanar were in a different class than either the Vector or Graham.

To confuse things further I have spent some time evaluating the Morch UP-4 and DP-6 and have been quite impressed. Unfortunately I have not heard the Morch arms in a side by side comparison with the 2.2 or Vector. But I have heard all these compared to a Schroder Reference. Based on my sonic memory (ie. subject to error) the Morch DP-6 stacks up very well and probably betters the Vector and Graham. At about $1500 the DP-6 is a real steal. Add the 12" armwand and it even gets better.

Larry,

Can you explain why the Vector arm is on the bottom of your list? Why are the other arms better?

Rich

Hi Larry,

well you should consider Kuzma Reference Airline
this one outperformance the Schroeder Reference
Regards Karl-Heinz

I think, the answers will vary, the Vector arm has not the "Hype" other Arm are having. From what I heard ( not personally, but from people, who know their stuff ), it is a real interesting Arm. I am not mad about the Schroeders, some others are, I prefer ( and bought ) the Triplanar VII much more and the Graham 2.2 is a class on it's own with cartridge adjustment. The Graham should also be connected to a first class phono cable, otherwise the result is like rolling a dice. But before, you should have a real good phonostage, which will allow to hear EVERYTHING, that's even more important.

Teres,

What cartridge was used with the Vector? What did you use to support the signal cables from the arm?