Best pivoted arm for SOTA less than $1000 used


Looking for a pivoted arm for my SOTA Star for less than $1000 used which would mate with a grado reference cartridge. Also, would like something relatively easy to set up, maintenance free, with easy VTA adjustment. Any ideas?
russellrcncom
If you can find one (which will take some patience), a 1980's Magnepan Unitrac unipivot arm would be a fine match. I've used that arm on a non-vacuum SOTA Sapphire since I purchased them new in 1983, currently with a Grado Reference Sonata (formerly with a Grace F9E Ruby).

VTA adjustment is done simply by turning a knob, which can even be done during play.

Although it is unrelated to the arm, I should mention that with the unshielded wood body Grado there is a very slight hum evident in my system when the cartridge is above the SOTA's rotating platter. It is only audible from within a few feet of the speakers, when no music is being played and the room is totally quiet. It disappears when the cartridge is not positioned directly above the platter.

I believe that this arm typically sells these days for around $300 or $400, but it does not appear very often.

Regards,
-- Al
I agree with Al. The Magnepan Unitrac would be a good choice at the pricepoint for your cartridge. The VTA adjustment on it is particularly sweet, too.

However, if you find one, make certain that it is complete. They tend to show up with this or that missing.
I have had great performance from Origin Live arms. Started near the bottom and am now near the top and all have been delightful. Increases in performance have come with increases in price. All have been used arms.
Reguards, Denny