{"product_id":"ortofon-as-309r","title":"Ortofon AS-309R Tonearm (12-inch, Reference)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Ortofon AS-309R is a statically balanced 12-inch Reference tonearm with a detachable headshell. The greater effective length reduces the tracking-angle error compared to a 9-inch arm — the reason many analog purists reach for twelve inches.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy the AS-309R?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwelve inches of effective length means a flatter angle for the stylus to follow the groove, and thus lower distortion across the record. Add to that the proven Ortofon mechanics: precise bearings, static balance, Baerwald geometry, and a detachable headshell. With an effective mass of 11 grams, the arm is tailored to medium-weight to heavier cartridges with rather low compliance. The Ortofon 6NX-TSW-1010 tonearm cable is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe geometric advantages of a true 12-inch arm in solid Reference build: more calm in the critical inner grooves, stable tracking, and the ability to carry heavier high-end MCs cleanly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWho is the AS-309R suited for — and who isn't it for?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal for large turntables with a 12-inch tonearm mount and listeners who want the last bit of low distortion. \u003cstrong\u003eStraight talk:\u003c\/strong\u003e twelve inches need space and the right mounting base — not every turntable can accommodate a 309R. The higher effective mass also pairs less well with light, high-compliance cartridges; here it's worth looking at the 9-inch AS-212R. Talk through the combination with us first.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eOur verdict\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe AS-309R is the path to the 12-inch ideal without breaking the bank: geometrically superior, cleanly built, with an interchangeable headshell. On the right base and paired with a suitable, rather heavier cartridge, a genuine Reference tool. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, we'll check base, geometry, and cartridge match with you — and fit it properly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTechnical data\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eType: statically balanced 12-inch Reference tonearm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlignment: Baerwald\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEffective length: 323.5 mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOverhang: 12.5 mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMounting distance (spindle to pivot): 311 mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOffset angle: 16.75°\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEffective mass: 11 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeadshell: detachable (SME connector), universal brass connector\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOutput: 5-pin DIN tonearm connector\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuitable cartridge weight (incl. headshell): 18–26 g (standard) \/ 26–38 g (heavyweight counterweight)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeight: 680 g (with standard counterweight)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIncluded: tonearm with detachable headshell, Ortofon 6NX-TSW-1010 tonearm cable, counterweight, mounting hardware\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat does a 12-inch tonearm like the AS-309R offer?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe greater effective length results in a smaller tracking-angle error across the whole record. This reduces distortion especially in the tricky inner grooves. The trade-off: more space required and a higher effective mass that needs to match the cartridge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhich cartridges suit the AS-309R?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe effective mass of 11 grams best suits medium-weight to heavier MC cartridges with rather low compliance; cartridge weight including headshell should be around 18–26 grams. Light, high-compliance cartridges are less ideal — we'll check the resonance frequency with you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy buy the Ortofon AS-309R at HD Zürisee?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause a 12-inch arm needs the right base and precise geometry. Our technician Mauri checks the mounting options, fits the AS-309R properly, and aligns it. HD Zürisee in Wädenswil is an authorized Ortofon dealer — call or write to us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eGoes well with\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGoes well with:\u003c\/strong\u003e a matching \u003ca href=\"\/en\/collections\/tonabnehmer\"\u003ecartridge\u003c\/a\u003e, a high-quality \u003ca href=\"\/en\/collections\/plattenspieler\"\u003eturntable\u003c\/a\u003e as a foundation, and a \u003ca href=\"\/en\/collections\/phono-vorverstarker\"\u003ephono preamp\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ortofon","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53306058932560,"sku":"303570","price":3099.0,"currency_code":"CHF","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0932\/3262\/8048\/files\/ortofon-as-309r-tonarm-seitenansicht.png?v=1786627312","url":"https:\/\/hdzuerisee.ch\/en\/products\/ortofon-as-309r","provider":"HD Zürisee AG","version":"1.0","type":"link"}