Graham Phantom or Morch DP6 ?

Pani,

I understand about the 2K budget, and of course that doesn't allow the DP-8 as an option. Within your budget, I would choose the DP-6 preferably with 12" wand. Although I've never used a Graham in my system, there are three reasons I never gave any Graham models serious consideration: (1) reputation for being somewhat light in the bass, (2) reputation for not holding up well over years of use (mainly cosmetic issues I believe), and (3) too frequent changes in models. I can't say for sure if #1 or #2 is correct or still applies to current Graham models. The frequent updates to Grahams is a fact but may not bother the buyer of a used arm.

In contrast, Moerchs are very neutral sounding, very reliable and the models stay in the line for many years. They also retain their value on the used market.

If you are thinking about buying the Moerch DP-6 new, why not contact Mehran at Sorasound? I believe he carries both Graham and Moerch. I didn't recommend this earlier since it isn't fair for dealers and importers to spend their valuable time with someone who wants to buy used and will spend their money elsewhere.

Hi Salectric,

I just want to address your point #2. I've used Graham arms for five years and they've held up perfectly. After three years, my 2.2 looked and functioned like the day I bought it. Ditto on my Phantom II after two years--and I listen to vinyl 4 to 6 hours a day, as I work at home. They're extremely well-engineered and well-built. I know several other Phantom owners and I've never heard a complaint. One might not like their sound--that's a matter of personal taste--but it's hard to argue with their quality. I also own and listen to arms from Triplanar, Clearaudio, and SME, so I'm not married to a brand. The Grahams are as well made as any of them, perhaps better. I also think the Phantom II is the most neutral-sounding arm I own. Were I to keep only one arm, it would be the Graham. Just my opinion. Nothing against Moerchs, though; I'm sure they're great arms.

Wrm57, I'd be interested in hearing how the Graham Phantom II compares to the Triplanar arm.

Roscoeiii, here are a few observations in my system. I find the Tri-planar to throw a larger, bolder presentation with excellent transparency, immediacy, and flow. It seems fuller on the bottom and mids, perhaps not quite as extended or refined on top, and perhaps more liquid than the Phantom II. Of course, we're splitting hairs here: the Tri is not lacking for top end; the Graham is not lacking in flow. The Tri-planar adds more of its own character, IMO. I find the Graham to be more precise and focused, more balanced high to low. It's definitely not light in the bass. I've read some comments that it's mechanical-sounding, or analytical, or "not musical" (whatever that means). Not true in my system. I travel just as far on the magic carpet via the Graham as the Tri-planar. But the Graham is a very neutral arm, which makes it a great platform for comparing cartridges, cables, etc. It does requires precise set-up, and miniscule changes in any parameter are instantly audible. The Tri-planar is a bit more forgiving. Both are fantastic in the control they afford over all parameters; I'm quite spoiled by them in this regard. They're different but both are wonderful arms, and equally valid in their presentations.