Clearaudio Unity 10-Inch Tonearm with DIN Connection, Black

The Clearaudio Unity DIN is a 10-inch radial tonearm with a magnetically stabilised single-point sapphire bearing and a carbon armtube – this version in black with a DIN connection on the arm and a detachable signal cable.

Technically it's the same arm as the RCA version: sapphire single-point bearing, magnetically guided along its axis, 254 mm effective length, 16.22 mm overhang, 21.59° offset angle. The difference sits at the connection. Here, the signal leaves the arm via a DIN connector, which turns the tonearm cable into a freely choosable component.

Why the Unity with DIN?

Because an arm of this class can stay in the turntable for two decades, but a cable doesn't have to. The DIN connection separates the two cleanly: the mechanics are fixed – single-point bearing, magnetic stabilisation, carbon tube, continuously variable VTA adjustment during playback – and the signal path behind it stays open. Already included is Clearaudio's Super Sixstream, fitted from DIN to RCA. So you don't start with an unfinished job, but with an option.

What you hear

A distinctly fast, light-footed arm with a calm, widely spread-out space and stable imaging. Fine dynamics don't get stuck in the mechanics but come through fully. The basic character is sober and direct – the carbon tube doesn't flatter anything that isn't on the record. With 16 grams of effective mass, the Unity is designed for cartridges of medium to low compliance.

Who is the Unity DIN suited for?

For listeners with a cartridge between 5.0 and 17.0 grams who don't want to commit to one tonearm cable for good – or whose phono stage is DIN-based anyway. Plainly put: anyone who will never swap out the included Super Sixstream doesn't need the DIN output and does just as well with the RCA version. And if your cartridge falls outside the weight window, the Unity is the wrong choice regardless of the connector.

Our verdict

The more flexible of the two Unity variants, without sacrificing anything at the start – the cable is already first-class, and switching remains possible at any time. What remains is the actual reason for this arm: a single-point bearing that, thanks to magnetic guidance, is finally practical for everyday use. Whether the 238 mm mounting distance and your cartridge weight fit, we clarify with you in advance at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil.

Technical data

• Type: radial tonearm, 10 inch
• Bearing: magnetically stabilised single-point sapphire bearing
• Armtube: carbon
• Material: aluminium (black), stainless steel, carbon armtube
• Effective length: 254 mm
• Overhang: 16.22 mm
• Offset angle: 21.59°
• Effective mass: 16 g
• Mounting distance: 238 mm (tonearm pivot to spindle)
• Overall length: 370 mm
• Adjustable cartridges: 5.0 g – 17.0 g
• Fine adjustment: tracking force, azimuth, VTA continuously variable (also during playback)
• Connection on the arm: DIN (tonearm cable detachable)
• Wiring: Clearaudio Super Sixstream, 1.1 m, fitted DIN to RCA
• Weight: 790 g (without counterweight)
• Finish: black
• Warranty: 2-year manufacturer's warranty
• Included in delivery: tonearm with counterweight, Super Sixstream signal cable (1.1 m, DIN to RCA)

Frequently asked questions

What does the DIN connection on the Unity give you?

It makes the tonearm cable detachable. Instead of a permanently wired cable, the arm has a DIN connector, so you can later connect a different tonearm cable without dismounting the arm. The Clearaudio Super Sixstream (1.1 m, DIN to RCA) is already included – an upgrade is possible, but not necessary.

Which cartridges can I mount?

Cartridges from 5.0 to 17.0 grams. Lighter or heavier and the arm can no longer be balanced cleanly – that's a hard limit, not a recommendation. With 16 grams of effective mass, the Unity pairs primarily with MC cartridges of medium to low stylus compliance. Tell us your cartridge and we'll check it.

Does the Unity DIN fit my turntable?

What matters is the mounting distance of 238 mm between the pivot point and the platter spindle, with the arm's 370 mm overall length. As a 10-inch arm it sits between the common 9-inch and 12-inch dimensions and doesn't fit every base. Tell us your turntable model and we'll clarify this before you order.

Is a different tonearm cable even worth it?

The included Super Sixstream is already a very good cable, so you won't automatically gain anything. The DIN connection is an option for later, not an open item to deal with. If you ever want to switch, we'll advise you on what suits your phono stage and cartridge.

Why buy the Unity DIN at HD Zürisee?

Because setup and cable choice come together here, and both take experience. Mauri mounts and sets up the arm for you in Wädenswil; we check the mounting distance and cartridge weight in advance and handle the warranty correctly as an authorised dealer. Get in touch at +41 44 680 22 00, WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls) or shop@hdzuerisee.ch.

Goes well with

You'll find alternative tonearm cables under Phono Cables, more arms under Tonearms. Plus matching Cartridges and the right amplification under Phono Preamps.