Reference SQ

About the Reference SQ

The Schroeder Reference SQ tonearm represents the pinnacle of Frank Schroeder's three decades of experience in tonearm design. It features a patented yarn-torsion bearing that is magnetically stabilized and steamed, resulting in virtually zero bearing friction and breakaway torque. The tonearm maintains a neutral balance, keeping vertical tracking force (VTF) largely constant when changing vertical tracking angle (VTA). It offers sensitive adjustments for overhang, VTA, VTF, and azimuth. The arm tube parameters are variable, allowing effective mass customization from 5g to 35g and effective length from 8.5 to 12 inches, typically at no extra charge. The armwand is constructed from multi-layer carbon fiber or exotic woods such as Bocote, Rosewood, Ebony, Acacia, Jacaranda, Cocobolo, Bamboo, or carbon fiber, all with high internal damping to minimize sonic fingerprint. Wiring is cryogenically treated Nordost Valhalla, continuous and optionally arranged differently per customer request, with pure silver cartridge clips and RCA plugs. Each unit is handmade by Frank Schroeder to individual specifications, including optimization for particular cartridges. The bearing tower is made of wood, bronze, and Certal, with neutral balance bearing geometry and dynamic antiskating supported by ruby olive bombe bearings. Height (VTA) adjustment is 20 mm with ±0.1 mm tolerance. The tonearm is renowned for its natural, neutral sound with minimal coloration and exceptional precision, making it one of the most highly regarded tonearms in the world. Due to the bespoke nature, delivery times can be one to two years.