Ok here is the scoop, I am parting out one of my tables, the ad for a Denon DP 75 and VPI plinth will follow soon.
I have two Acos GST 801 arms, which is one of the nicest Japanese arms from the analog area that is still reasonably priced. You don't pay the Audiocraft or SAEC collector prices.
The arm has superb bearings, artisan level machining and finish, is wired with silver internal wire, and is suited for medium to low compliance cartridges depending on what head shell you use.
OK I am not the original owner on these, and the bit of work that might be required is due to the previous owner.
Am #1.
I originally bought arm #2, but it had an issue with the internal magnets that apply VTF. I was fortunate to find another arm offered as NOS, and it really was NOS. However the box was robbed of the on the fly VTA pillar, and a machined Rega style base was packaged with it.
I figured I could use the other VTA pillar with it, so I bought it. Now the VTA pillar has an issue in that the previous owner stripped out a screw that holds the telescoping assembly, and that grub screw has been replaced with a nylon one that does the job, but is not as intended. The hole should be tapped out for another stainless steel grub screw to be like the factory. However, it does work properly, I am just disclosing what I know. Secondly, the threads where the large nut go on have a bit of stickiness. They probably should be cleaned up with a re-threading tool. This does not stop it from tightening up to the point where you cinch it up against the arm board, so this is not a pressing issue that would stop you from using the arm right away.
It does have the stock head shell, which these rarely have. The head shell wires should be replaced as they have faded in color. Also have the stock tone arm cable, but I normally use one from Analysis Plus with this arm. The stock cable does work though. It also has a second counterweight, which looks to be heavier. And most importantly I have the auxillary weight that is VERY RARELY available with these arms on the used market. Also have the factory box, drilling template, and manual.
These arms normally sell for $850 to $1000 used. I will sell this one for $600.
Arm #2
This one is an interesting option, and a great value for someone looking for a cheap arm that is well built. I sent the arm off for service, and found that the internal magnet is cracked. The tech removed it and the arm can be balanced statically, like any normal arm. However the collar that adjusted the magnet spins freely, and should be secured. I bet a drop of clear nail polish would do that, but I would rather you do it and know what has been done. The cosmetics and bearings of this arm are perfect, its a beautiful piece.
Now this one comes with the Rega style machined base, and it has a small nick in it that needs to be filed out. It also does not come with a tone arm cable or head shell. Any standard bayonet type one will fit it. However! It does have an auxiliary tone arm weight so it can be used with heavy cartridges. It is not factory, it was machined for this arm. You can't tell its not original, but I thought I would disclose that. No factory box, but I got a good one to ship it in. Manual and templates available on Vinyl Engine.
Sell for $275
