I’m on the hunt for a main counterweight for my early split weight SME 3012 s2.
I’ve been offered a genuine SME s2 counterweight that weighs 60g and is 20mm in length. My googling has not been overly helpful.
I fear that this 60g weight may be too light for the 3012 and was more likely designed for the 3009 but I’d like to find out for sure before I dismiss it.
I think the weight I want weighs 80g and is 25mm in length but I’m really not sure about this. Your help would be very welcome.
Does anyone here have a split weight 3012 s2 with the regular sized main counterweight? Could you please measure the length of the counterweight for me? Bonus points if you can weigh it too!
The larger SME main counter weight you have is suited to SPU and is either 110g or 120g there are slight variables. All 3012’s are split weight. You may find with some digging the black weight which was specifically designed for the 3009 with light tracking carts - This in combination with the 52g 3009 maint split weight would get you were you need to be.
You could speak with simone in italy - he’s a nice guy and may be able to assist - That or Speedy Steve if you need to get something turned - Vapour or bead blasting will get close to the original finish.
I can send you the 3009 split weight to try if you’d like - see if it balances?
Thanks very much for your suggestions. They’re much appreciated. When I bought the arm it had been modified by Analog Tube Audio. I’ve returned the arm completely back to stock so I’m keen to get an original 3012 counterweight.
I don’t need it just now or I would buy the Audiosilente weight. They look very well made and nicely finished.
However, as I won’t be upgrading my cartridge until well into 2025 there’s no rush so I can hold out for an original. Ideally I want to find the correct counterweight and later I’d like to add a nice s2 headshell to complete the arm.
Thanks Matt. That’s very kind of you but I don’t yet have the cartridge to try it with.
