The Reference SQ option adds the following features to the Reference model:
- Bearing Magnets - N-52 neodymium (stronger magnetic circuit replaces N-50 in Reference) - resulting
in more authoritative presentation
- Bearing Magnets - machined with mating curved surfaces, resulting in zero tracking force change when
adjusting VTA
- Wood sleeve replaces bronze bearing tower
- Nordost wiring
- Silver Eichman Bullet Plugs (RCA's)
- Silver cartridge clips
Optional (at no charge) is a fine knurled screw adjustment for VTF (vertical tracking force)
The following features describe the Reference tonearm:
It is highly adjustable and comes in a variety of arm wand materials, ensuring perfect compatibility with any
phono cartridge.
Effective mass is tailored to your specifications - ranging from 5 - 50 grams, with wand lengths available
from 8.5" to 12"
It can be further customized with various finishing options, some of which are shown in the photo at the left.
Features
- Choice of arm wand materials and length (carbon fiber, jacaranda, tiger wood, ebony, bocote, etc.)
- Effective length from 8.5" to 12"
- Effective mass range 5 to 50 grams
- Fine knurled screw adjustment of VTF (vertical tracking force)
- Two cartridge carriers included (1-aluminum, 1-brass) - to adjust effective mass for extended
cartridge compatibility.
- Bearing Magnets: N-50 neodymium (stronger than DPS) resulting in a more authoritative presentation.
- Wiring - continuous run of proprietary solid-core copper from cartridge clips to male RCA Plugs.
See options, below.
- Termination - Eichman Bullet Plugs (male RCA) or optional female RCAs on hardwood mounting plate.
Preliminary Setup for standard length tonearm (239 mm effective length)
The Reference and Reference SQ have an offset relationship between the arm mounting center and the
bearing pivot.
In order to set the "at rest" orientation of the tonearm, you must rotate the upper bearing assembly on the
post (loosening the lower set screw first).
Because of the offset bearing, this changes the pivot to spindle distance.
Similarly, rotating the armboard changes the pivot to spindle distance.
Balancing these two rotational adjustments to arrive at both an acceptable orientation and the correct
pivot to spindle distance requires a bit of trial and error.
The photo above is taken of a standard, 9" long (239mm effective length) Reference SQ tonearm. Note how
the left side of the arm wand is parallel to the left edge of the armboard.
Start with your tonearm in this orientation, and then set the pivot to spindle distance (222mm in this
example) by rotating the armboard.
You may then make fine adjustments in pivot to spindle distance by either rotating the armboard or the
tonearm about its post.
