2. analog
  3. 1286596093

SME 312S versus SME V-12

These are SME's two 12" arms. The difference is that the 312S has a detachable headshell for azimuth/cartridge swapping and static VTF while the V-12 has a fixed headshell/continuous arm tube and dynamic VTF.

Has anyone heard and compared these arms to each other? I just retested static versus dynamic VTF on my SME V arm and prefer the dynamic, so that may answer my question, but I'm curious to read what others think of these two arms as I've never heard them. Thanks.
peterayer
mauidj
111 posts
 
I'd also like to hear comments on this question as I am about to purchase a 20/12 and don't know if I am better off spending the extra for the V-12.
I believe the internal wiring on both is the Silver Litz so it's down to VTF adjustment and the removable headshell right?
I've got to think they are really close sonically.
rgurney
279 posts
 
They are very close, if not identical sonically. The advantage of the 312S lies in its ability to quickly change cartridges. You can also adjust azimuth with the 312S, where you can't with the V-12. Check with Albert Porter - he has several 312S arms.
mauidj
111 posts
 
Rgurney.......
Are you sure about the azimuth?
I know the 312S has static and the V-12 dynamic VTF.
Can you hear the difference?
I've heard reports that some people prefer static and others dynamic.
I've also heard that some people use static VTF on V arms even though they have dynamic adjustment.
The other advantage is the 312S costs about $2500 less than the V-12!
Hmmm....so Albert likes the 312S eh.
More to discover