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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
jfrech's avatar
jfrech
1,816 posts
 
You're not going to go wrong with any of these combo's. I will say if you go with the SME arm (I have a 20/2, IV.Vi, Lyra Skala) I think a arm cable is a must. With your Ayre, I think going balanced is a must (din to xlr). I love my Purist Venestas. Also, power cords and isolation help.

Currently I'm using a Omega Micro power cord and the 20/2 sitting on a Symposium Ultra...

Wasn't exactly what you asked, but some extra info to get the most from your new 20/2.

Good luck!
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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rauliruegas
9,123 posts
 
Dear Aubullience: Very good TT. In my humble opinion the choice of tonearm depends more of which cartridge you finally own.

If you decide for the Lyra the SME V is a better way to go and if you decide for the SME V ( I prefer the IV ) then try to set-up in a static balanced way.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
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