tonearm parameters

I MY experience, adjustment of azimuth is a vital contribution to proper vinyl playback. After you get the proper geometry for your arm length, and get proper downward force, azimuth is next in importance...though all parameters are vital.

Dear Stringreen: +++++ " Low mass cartridge should be installed in a low mass arm. " +++++++

cartridge compliance is the " key " to define low mass or high effective mass in the tonearm. Yes, cartridge weight is important but the critical parameter down there is cartridgecompliance.

Raul is correct. A statement like, "Low mass cartridge should be installed on a low mass arm" is incorrect. A better (though still simplified) statement would be, "High compliance cartridge should be installed on a low mass arm, or vice-versa".

Examples: ZYX cartridges (especially without the optional SB weight) are fairly low mass. Koetsu cartridges are fairly high mass. Put either one on a low mass arm and it will sound anemic. This is because both have relatively low compliance suspensions (for their weight). Put the same cartridges on a mid-high mass arm and they will spring to life.

To the OP: your question is so open-ended that you'll receive a confusing maze of responses. It'll be fun to watch but I'm not sure how helpful it will be. Tonearms range in cost from a few hundred dollars up to, well, you probably wouldn't believe it. Within this expanding universe the number of different theories and their execution is beyond counting. Fasten your seat belt!

I'm with Redglobe. Hard to do better for a grand or so. I would give up my SME-V before I'd let go my Terminator T-3. Adjustable in all areas from azimuth, mass, as well as VTA on the fly if you care.
Terminator