Top-7 Tonearms for Vinyl Turntables

Our new editorial rating of the best modern tonearms covers almost all price groups - so vinyl fans will have plenty to choose from. A good tonearm is the key to high-quality playback of records, so we hope the new selection will dot the "i's".

7. Rega RB 303

Pros - large stage, authentic timbres

The Rega RB 303 tonearm is a proven classic solution for playing vinyl records. The model is based on the developments of the RB 300 tonearm using automated design and 3D modeling - this is how the design was obtained with redistributed (to dampen resonances) mass, redesigned bearings (similar in accuracy to those used in ship navigation systems) and a modified tonearm tube (which is now made of aluminum by casting and has a conical shape). The Rega RB 303 sounds full-bodied and natural.

6. Scheu Analog Scheu Classic MKII 10"

Pros - high detail

Scheu Analog Scheu Classic MKII 10" is a single-pivot tonearm of increased length, it provides high detail for its price group and offers a very pleasant sound. The model is made using a very tricky method - a sheet profile made of aluminum is folded in half and then processed using laser cutting. The bearing is also very interesting - hardened with liquid nitrogen. The tonearm offers a full adjustment system - azimuth, anti-skating and longitudinal balance.

5. Clearaudio Profiler

Pros - exceptionally precise and balanced sound

The Clearaudio Profiler tonearm is a striking example of the engineering excellence of the cult German company. The model provides very accurate, one might say precision sound, it is also made "for centuries". The dual gimbal suspension with horizontal sapphire bearing and vertical bearing provides incredible tracking accuracy.

4. Thomas Schick 12”

Pros – Grandiose bass

The long tonearm of the Thomas Schick 12” immediately takes off and expands the boundaries of your hall, demonstrating both a huge stage and muscular bass. The model uses a gimbal suspension and the principle of static balance and offers a circuit headshell – which seems to be a very convenient solution for those audiophiles who have a collection of several cartridges. Just keep in mind that the recommended compliance of the cartridge is stated as less than 20 µm/mN.

3. Scheu Analog Tacco 9"

Pros - sound with genuine chic and shine

Although Scheu Analog Tacco has a standard length of 9", the sound of the model is in striking contrast to physics - providing both textured bass, and excellent localization and overall chic character of performance. The tonearm has a composite (wood, aluminum, carbon) conical tube, a compact tungsten counterweight effectively dampens vibrations in the bearing unit, and a single-bearing bearing is made of a ruby ball, a carbide pin and a sapphire insert.

2. VPI Fatboy Gimbal 10-3D Tonearm

Pros - dense and large-scale feed

VPI Fatboy Gimbal 10-3D Tonearm is a tonearm from a well-known American company (this model can also be made in a version with a single-bearing). The model guarantees record bass and the effect of a full-fledged “wall of sound”. The system is printed on a 3D printer and uses elements made of aluminum, steel, delrin and epoxy resin, and all internal wiring is made of Nordost Reference cable. Average distortion according to RMS does not exceed 0.267% - bravo!

1. Graham Engineering Phantom III

Pros - sound from the series "open window to the street"

The tonearm of Graham Engineering Phantom III is a true engineering masterpiece, its updated system of magnetic neodymium stabilization Magneglide (which works in both planes) has already become the talk of the town. In addition, the model will please you with a new tube made of titanium, a modified single-bearing bearing, the block of which is now made of brass with tungsten and internal wiring made of litz wire. The sound of the tonearm does not give the slightest reason for criticism.

Stas Ustenko