Any feedback on the Graham Phantom

Sirspeedy

I share your concerns also, because my Lyra Helikon is only 8 grams. So at the moment I am still on the fence waiting for the second manufacturing run.

I would like to add that ultimately the final verdict as to the success of the new Phantom design would be determined by listening and not by conjecture.

Sirspeedy, your response and concern over the Phantom not being able to handle your cartridge is a bit much.

The Phantom is not a 2.2 on steroids. It is the more elegant design. As for one tonearm being the "absolute best" for everyone is an unreasonable expectation.

It agree that you seem to be going through a set of rationalizations of why you should not buy this arm. The fact is, the 2.2 is a wonderful arm. The new Phantom does not change this reality.

Give Graham credit for taking the time to release a truly completed design that delivers what he advertises.

As for the SME-V, I have owned this arm; the Phantom is something very different.

With every record I play, it is now a new experience with the Phantom.

Splaskin,read my comments more carefully!I never said I thought the Phantom could not handle my cartridge!!I said I felt(and it was only my opinion)the 2.2 was a better match for a low mass cart. like mine.Read van den Hul's comments,on mass over the record groove,before you start to interpret my thoughts to suit you!!

By the way,I am SURE the Phantom will prove to be a great arm.

Sirspeedy, you have no argument here concerning van den Hul's comments on mass over the record groove. As for interpreting your thoughts, well your writing speaks for itself.

By suggesting that the Phanatom is a 2.2 on steroids kind of misses the new design features; neutral balance and reduced resonances due to the new arm design and locking mechanism. The new locking design is quite substantial.

Without meaning to insult you, it appeared to me that your implication was that Graham should have designed a new low mass arm. Perhaps if there is enough demand, he will.

Best Wishes,

Steve