Do SME V's come with detchable head shell?

Dear Tim: Interesting that the V comes now with removable headshell, I can't find in the SME website.

Anyway, for my point of view this new V really is not a V because the " unique " V characteristic is that is build from one piece. I don't want to argue about but it seems to me different than the original/always V.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.

Raul - yes, I understand your point - because of the separate headshell the 'Vd' is not a single cast piece, although it is a single piece from the headshell joint on back. I believe, but am not certain, that the headshell is also magnesium cast like the arm. All other features are identical to the 'normal' V.

The detachable headshell version has been offered for a few years now, but I do not think it is imported to North America. To my knowledge, cost is ~10% more than regular version. The manual I received is the regular SME V manual and its pictures are of the regular V. I have read that the detachable headshell version was created to enable azimuth adjustment, which seems the only logical reason - versus ease of cartridge swapping.

The headshell itself is clamped to the arm with a bolt and fitment is snug. Cartridge connection uses the typical leads to pins. The headshell mates to the arm with strong spring loaded pins. I suppose a downside is another connection in arm wiring. Nonetheless it is, as you know, an excellent tonearm.

Cheers,
Tim

Tim - Everything you say is correct. The SME Vd was designed to tweak the azimuth, not to allow quick changing of cartridges (as with the Phantom arm wands).