Graham Phantom vs. Phantom II

Syntax

I had a Phantom and thought it was a great arm. Mine was a Phantom, but it essentially was a II. I think the only difference at that time was the armwand.

A friend has a old Phantom, one of the early ones. I helped him set it up and thought the sound was as good but it was not as easy to setup as you had to be carefull because the magnets would pull the bearing out of the bearing pocket, and mine would never do that. The fit and finish is improved as well on the more current models.

I think the Magnaglide refinements make it a better arm in that repect as it is more stable and predictable, other than that I think the old one sound great still.

I own a Phantom II but it does not have the spirit level attached to the pivot housing ... when did Bob add this feature to the II? Very happy with the arm and found it to be a noticeable improvement over my 2.2.

I used to have the Phantom I and now have the II. It is not day and light difference, but noticeable. With the Phantom II, I heard quicker transient, more air, deeper bass, better dynamics (more explosive), and more presence with instruments and voice. I really like the upgrade and the counterweight can accommodate heavy cartridge like the Goldfinger v2 which is 20g.

I do have the II as well but it does not have the spirit level. Perhaps this is the III version some people are talking about.

Smoffatt - We must have the 1st production run Phantom II tonearms. I e-mailed Bob asking about this feature but I doubt I will get a reply ...