SME 3009 II - Earlier (non-improved) vs. Improved?

[Taketheflame]

Well, the final verdict is in...*drumroll*

The non-improved arm has been chosen and ordered!

After a good phone call, the general synopsis I got is that the fixed-headshell II Improved, or a series III is optimum for high compliance styli, but that the regular series II is the better choice than either of those (or the removable headshell Improved) for someone who wants flexibility/wants to swap carts and headshells due to being the better built/designed arm for such.

Ultimately, the fixed-headshell II or series III will end up being too much of a one-trick pony for me (and I don't want to be stuck with an arm only suitable for high compliance), so that sealed the deal for me

 

[Blue Shadow]

Well chosen

That game was fun while it lasted!

 

[8xlaxx]

Find another headshell for the non-improved. The stock ones are kinda pricey 'if' you can find them. Member @heyraz is on the right track with the ADC.

 

[Taketheflame]

Well chosen

That game was fun while it lasted!

I spent far too many hours debating about it - I'm just glad a decision has been made, lol.

It'll actually open up even more cartridge choices for me than the S2 Improved would. Still gonna try the V15 III out on it, since everything I've been able to dig up suggests any aftermarket styli (including Jico) are a bit lower in compliance than OEM and it should still perform well. But if worse comes to worse...I do have several other options ready to go.

Find another headshell for the non-improved. The stock ones are kinda pricey 'if' you can find them. Member @heyraz is on the right track with the ADC.

I've been thinking of trying out some of the wood headshells I've found out there. Some are fairly light @ around 8 - 8.5g w/wires. OEM shells do indeed command a premium.