I want to learn about tonearm differences

[Hail Vinyl!]

Hi. Thank you in advance for reading.

Well, my question basically points to these two tonearm designs:

The first picture shows the tonearm of an Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USB, which is similar to that of the Technics SL-1200. The second one is the tonearm of a Numark TTXUSB. Appearance differences are evident, but I'd like to know what's behind each one. A review of the TTXUSB mentions the following about that tonearm:

The pivot itself is more like a seesaw than a suspended gimbal style as favoured by most other manufacturers. This means that the tonearm assembly is connected directly to the bearing, which while being simpler, has the potential to create greater tracking forces because of increased friction. Doesn't seem to effect the Vestax PDX arms and nor does it on the TTX.

But why choosing one design over another? Which are their inherent advantages/disadvantages? I'm very curious about this. Thank you in advance for your input!

 

[guest102]

I am no authority on tonearms, but I have examined the Numark style of tonearm on some of the line's less expensive, less refined models at a Guitar Center, and they made me cringe. The cheaper renditions had such an unsteady rattling feel to them which has instilled an illogical caution toward anything looking like they do. However experiencing a better feeling from a more expensive, better built unit might dispel some of that.

The Audio-Technica gimbal arm in principal is similar to what is used on the many Technics models, most famously the SL1200 series. It is also copied on the Audio-Technica "PL" and "LP" 120s. My SL-1210's tonearm works flawlessly and has a good feel. My AT-PL120 had assembly issues (loose, rattling bearings). It also has other problems, mostly due to inappropriate choices for springs and wires. Both the Technics and A-T gimbal systems appear similar, but in makeup and commitment to quality they are noticeably different. Honestly, these impressions may only apply to my AT-PL120, or to those who had similar balance and/or antiskate problems.

In comparing any different methods which perform the same job, the kind of design alone does not tell the whole story. The level of commitment to excellence in quality execution of the design and it's observed performance are also important.

 

[GreatTone]

It's my understanding that there is an advantage to wider spacing between the vertical bearings -- supposedly it creates better stability.

My Audiomods tonearm is a redesigned Rega RB250, and one of the mods is doubling the spacing between the vertical bearings.

Before all this though is the quality of the bearings. If they are poor quality, if the tolerances are too loose, or if they are not adjusted correctly, it won't matter how widely they are spaced. The arm won't sound very good.