1210 + SME Series III

[synsei]

I'm going to pick up an SL1210 this weekend and the only arm I have available to use on it for now is an SMEIII, are there any compatibility issues I should know about? :eyebrows:

[DSJR]

The SME 3009 "Improved" model and the series III were very popular with the SL150mk1 and 2, so I very much doubt there'd be an issue with the 1210 with suitable mounting plate.

The only issue I have, as that the Series III arm has a very "safe" sonic character, which can limit the cartridge options a little. An alternative exit lead (easy with phono sockets on the arm) and care with a separate earthing lead may free what's there up further perhaps.

I'd also probably got for an acrylic mat such as one of those for £22 or so on ebay, or go outright for an Achromat straight off. Anthing to keep the record from sounding too soft or bass-bloated in any aspect - can't find the words, and this sounds like I'm saying the stock techie is like this - it isn't - but maybe with the SME III it could be - just a hunch ;)

[synsei]

Thanks muchly for that Dave. I'll just have to make the most of it for a while because I have nothing else to fit to it unfortunately and money is very, very short just now :(

The SL1210 is being supplied with a Herbies mat but unfortunately it sucks all the life out of the music, and that's with a Hadcock arm so I'm guessing it'll be even worse with the SMEE :eyebrows:

I'll take your advice and try an acrylic mat, it sounds like a good call to me. Should I employ the old petroleum jelly trick with this mat?

[DSJR]

I think so, as this will help to tame the platter too.. The previous SL150/1500 doesn't mind the Herbies techie sized mat, but the platter is heavier and less ringy in the first instance I think. What I did ('cos I had one handy) was to place a cork mat on top of the Herbies and this works well. Mind you, £22 or so for an inexpensive acrylic jobbie isn't too bad - oh, and some Vantage Audio style feet (I trust Gromit's ears) wouldn't go amiss.

[synsei]

oh, and some Vantage Audio style feet (I trust Gromit's ears) wouldn't go amiss.

I was thinking along the same lines myself, and they are good VFM too :D