Clearaudio TT5 Tangential Tonearm + Swing Base, Black

The Clearaudio TT5 with Swing Base is a linear tangential tonearm that can be swung aside for cueing the record – here in the black version.

The arm itself is the familiar TT5: linearly guided, stylus at a 90-degree angle, no tracking angle error, no skating. The difference is made by the Swing Base – an additional, smooth-running pivot mount fitted onto the tonearm base.

Why the TT5 with Swing Base?

In the standard version, the TT5 sits fixed in place – you thread the record through the gap between arm and platter. The Swing Base places a precisely guided pivot mount between base and arm: you swing the whole arm aside, as with a classic pivoted tonearm, cue the record comfortably, and swing it back. You decide the swing direction yourself during mounting – to the right or to the rear. Your fingers and your stylus will thank you for it.

What you hear

Sonically identical to the rigid TT5: geometrically error-free tracking right into the inner groove, a calm and clean sound image without the typical pivoted-tonearm distortion toward the end of the record. It plays in a fixed position – it only pivots for cueing.

Who is the TT5 with Swing Base suited for?

For anyone who wants tangential technology but doesn't want to give up the comfortable, pivoted-arm-like record change. Plainly put: the extra cost buys comfort and handling safety, not more sound quality – anyone who wants to listen purist-style with no moving parts at the base takes the rigid version instead. Here too: a stable, absolutely level setup is mandatory, otherwise tangential technology quickly turns into frustration.

Our verdict

The Swing Base is one of the few accessories you won't want to give up after two weeks – not because of the sound, but because everyday cueing becomes relaxed instead of nerve-wracking. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, we mount and set up the combination for you, including the right swing direction for where you'll place it.

"The Clearaudio TT5 sounds exactly how I'd expect a tangential arm to sound: very tidy and neutral, with clarity, accuracy and a clean line. Handling and build quality convince all round too, especially with the optional Swing Base." – FIDELITY, Clearaudio TT5 review, 2017

Technical data

• Design: linear tangential tonearm, purely mechanical and passive drive, with Swing Base
• Bearings: dry-running high-precision ball bearings, sled in a polished glass tube
• Swing Base: two-part pivot mount, fitted onto the tonearm base with three M4 × 16 socket-head screws (it doesn't replace the base); swing direction to the right or to the rear selectable
• Mounting distance: 222 mm between platter and tonearm pivot point (as specified in the Swing Base instructions)
• Cartridge: adjustable from 5.5 to 15.0 g; designed for cartridges from 7 g of own weight (lighter ones with additional weight)
• Effective mass: not stated by Clearaudio
• Signal cable: 1.1 m Clearaudio Super Sixstream, fitted with RCA
• Material / finish: black aluminium, stainless steel, glass
• Weight: arm approx. 520 g (without aluminium clamping ring); clamping ring approx. 65 g, Swing Base additional
• Arm dimensions (W × D × H): approx. 200 × 140 × 140 mm, including headshell
• Manufacturer's warranty: 5 years with registration of the warranty card within 14 days
• Included in delivery: pre-assembled tonearm with carbon headshell, aluminium clamping ring, additional weights from 2.3 to 8.0 g, Clearaudio mini level gauge, Allen keys, gloves, signal cable; Swing Base with three M4 × 16 screws, Allen keys 1.5 / 2 / 3 and instructions

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between the Swing Base and the standard version?

The Swing Base is an additional pivot mount fitted onto the tonearm base – it doesn't replace the base, it sits on top of it. That lets you swing the whole arm aside for cueing, without having to manoeuvre around the stylus. Sonically there's no difference from the rigid TT5.

Does the pivot mechanism compromise rigidity?

No. The Swing Base is a precisely guided mount that sits firm in playing position; it only pivots for cueing. What matters is clean mounting with the specified distance of 222 millimetres between platter and tonearm pivot point – the instructions include a template for exactly that.

Which direction does the arm swing away?

You decide that during mounting: the upper part of the Swing Base can be screwed on so the arm swings away to the right or to the rear. Which direction makes sense depends on where you place it and the space next to your turntable – we sort that out with you beforehand.

Can I upgrade from rigid to Swing Base later?

In principle yes, because the Swing Base is screwed onto the existing tonearm base. Whether that's worthwhile for your turntable and whether the height relationships still work out afterwards is something we look at together. Just talk to us before you order.

Why buy the TT5 with Swing Base at HD Zürisee?

Because we don't just sell you the arm – we set it up precisely on your turntable in Wädenswil, including mounting distance and swing direction. As a specialist dealer with our own technician, we take care of setup, warranty and service. Call us at 044 680 22 00 or message us on WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls).

Goes well with

You'll find the matching cartridge under Cartridges, the turntable to go with it under Turntables, and the amplification under Phono Preamps. The rigid version and more arms are listed under Tonearms, the whole analogue range under All Things Vinyl.