Тонармы SME

Alex, the 3012 (probably the version IIR for a typical cartridge) is much more interesting then 3009. It has much more coherent connection between upper-bass and midrange, less mechanical midrange and significantly (!) better bass. Besides, the 3009 is not as flexible as 3012 to accommodate any cartridge  (means to get a near-optimum performance out of the cartridge). If you plan to install two arms then defiantly 3012 (not 3009) should be one of them. Honestly, I do not know any good sounding TT that would not allow using 12-inch arms. The second arm might be any arm. At all depends of the functional purpose you would appoint for your second arm. (You certainly you will not play two identical types of the cartridges on the different arms). Considering that most people have limited space for the second arm you might consider a second arm to be shorter (260-290 mm) but this shortness WILL degrade the performance of the second arm’s cartridges. I do not believe in the exchangeable cartridges for the arms (as it done by SME) therefore the interchangeable tubes might be the options. Unfortunately today no one manufactures any good sounding tomarms with the interchangeable inserts. The mentioned above Graham sadly is not a decently sounding tonearm (too short, wrong bearings, overdamped suspension, and few other problems). If you need any further information about the SEM arms then contact “Flat Earth Audio” in CT for the information, although it is not the best place to buy. Be advised that “the street” price for 3012/IIR is ~$500-$600.