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better tonearm for SME 20/2

Hi-

I'm purchasing an SME 20/2 turntable, and am trying to decide between a used SME V or a Graham 2.2 tonearm. I'd probably have the tonearm setup done by a shop experienced w/ the table/tonearm(s). I'd appreciate any feedback from owners of SME tables on their experiences w/ either or both of these arms.

I'm also trying to decide between a benz or lyra cartridge in the $1200-2K range. My other gear includes Ayre electronics plus Vandersteen 5 speakers, but my primary question regards the tonearms.

Thanks!
aubullience

Showing 1 response by rgurney

rgurney
279 posts
 
I use both a V and a Phantom on my 30/2. The SME V has great synergy with the table. The Phantom has the big advantages of quick, repeatable adjustability and cartridge changing (with different armwands).
IF you're going to use only one cartridge, the V will do fine, as once it's set up correctly, it will not need fiddling with adjustments. IF you're going to use more than one cartridge, consider the Graham. Your choice of arm depends alot on your cartridge. Cartridge/arm synergy is IMHO more important than arm/table synergy.
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