They say the Soundtracktor uses a different geometry that reduces distortion at the end of the record. I used a Dennisen Soundtracktor to establish the mounting, overhang and cartridge angle. As soon as I experienced the quiet, smooth presentation of the DP-3000 with the SME and DL-103, I was stunned. Between the rumble, puck noise, wow and flutter, I felt the German table was money I spent poorly. It was an early 70s German table with a Shure V15. Couldn't say that about my other turntable. With the DENON DL-103 cartridge, I never saw my woofers breathe while going over a warp in the vinyl. Yes, the table and plinth transmitted floor noise. Mounted it to a Denon DP-3000 with the factory plinth. Bought my first in 1976 in Japan for $100. The SME Type II Improved with fixed head shell is my all-time favorite tonearm. It is also important in my humble opinion to marry up with the 'right' amplifier and speakers otherwise you may as well by a CD!
#SME TONEARM TIMELINE FULL#
I don't think there is any doubt regarding the superbe quality of these SME tonearms, as others have commented they require time and patience to set-up properly and this is an absolute must to derive the full benefits from these tonearms. One carries a Shure V15 the other an Ortofon 2M Blue. I have two SME 3009 S2 on a SL-110 and SL-1500 respectively. If you have one hiding, put it back on, I bet you are as surprised as I am. Totally amazed how it sounded !Īnd wondered why oh why did I take it off !! More than likely a fashion thing as I recall unipivots being the golden kids at the time. The SME is a good arm and a beauty, but limited for cartridges with high compliance.Ĭhanged my arm back to this beauty after several years using a Mayware Formula 5.
(they have a lower compliance and track best between 1.7 to 2.2g!)Ĭompared to other arms I have one of the V15III on, the SME has slightly less bass.
They are more acceptable on heavier arms. The aftermarket styli do not sound too good on the SME.
#SME TONEARM TIMELINE PLUS#
I use/d original styli (elliptical nude), the old Jico SAS plus several cheap conical (?) aftermarket styli. The V15III is a great match for this tonearm. (30mm plywood plinth, Technics SL-D2 motor/platter) I like the look of the unimproved SMEs better, but this one is still a beauty. I use a Shure V15III in a (ugly) DIY wood body. SME 3009 Improved, fixed headshell, original plastic knife bearings.