The SME 309 is a high-performance tonearm designed for use with turntables. It features a detachable headshell allowing for easy cartridge swapping, which is a significant advantage for audiophiles who wish to experiment with different cartridges. This arm weighs approximately 717 grams, giving it a solid construction intended to minimize vibrations and enhance audio fidelity. The device is engineered for precision, featuring high-quality bearings that facilitate smooth movement and accurate tracking of the record grooves. The geometry of the SME 309 is optimized with null points at 63.5mm and 119.4mm, which aim to improve playback accuracy, especially on inner grooves of records. The tonearm also incorporates features that reduce the impact of external vibrations, contributing to a cleaner sound. Users have reported a marked improvement in performance compared to older models, such as the SME 3009, especially in terms of bass response and overall dynamics. The 309 is positioned as a more accessible option within the SME lineup, providing excellent quality without reaching the upper price tiers of some flagship models.
