Tone arm upgrade


I'm currently using a Rega RB300 modded tonearm ( aftermarket wiring harness and counterweight). I'd like to consider a step up, have been keeping my eye open for a good condition used Linn Itok arm. Is this the right path or in the $1~$2k price range is I there another good alternative?
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Showing 3 responses by dorkwad

Look into Trans-Fi Terminator straight line tracking tonearm. Having had a Maplenoll Ariadne TT/arm with SLT, the sound the straight line arm produce is not equaled and Trans-Fi has addressed the issues that caused me to sell my Maplenoll--the potential for some place prior to the air reaching the table of having the hose blow off, the pump fail, or something. The Trans-Fi uses such low pressure air flow in its execution that it can ran without any air flow (if something happened) once it's going for several hours without any tendency of the arm locking up. This happened twice with my 'Noll and the cantilever bent severely both times. The sound of the Trans-Fi is better than my 'Noll's and it was way better than anything I've had since. See if you can ever buy a used Tran-Fi. I haven't seen one on here in 6 years and I look a couple times a day. That should tell you about the quality and sound of these arms. No one sells these arms after buying one. $1275 for a fully pimped out specimen plus shipping. Go on their website and see all the different tables with one on there including yours. The look is much like the actual cutting mechanism used to make records.
Sorry, by better sound I will be more specific. Due to many things that are part of this tonearm such as a stiff and much shorter armwand, the bass has real clarity and punch, the mids are just plain beautiful sounding along with the highs. EVERY album you listen to will be easier on your ears and yet have superior definition and dynamics. There will be ONE PROBLEM--- shutting off the music and going to bed at a reasonable time. Soundwise compared to other arms, the Trans-Fi would be a great buy at 4-5 times it's price.
I can't wait to install the Tran-Fi Terminator arm with all the upgrades on my super Lenco TT with most of Jean Nantais' mods. I have the electrical all in place from my days with the Maplenoll Ariadne. The closet in the far corner of my basement has sound control inside it and an outlet with the on/off switch located directly at my TT--NO NOISE AT ALL.
Until you've heard a properly working straight line tracking arm, you most likely haven't heard your analog at its best.