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12 inch Japanese Tonearm Hi guys, I was looking for a fidelity research 12 inch but need to expand my search. must be in perfect condition, no hack jobs or frankensteins please. Would also consider Schick second hand. Al Condition: Very good Payment Method: Region/State: (QLD) Queensland/Australia By Xecuter 0 Comments Secure Ad AUD $3,000 Date: February 18, 20251 yr
At A$3,000, this used Fidelity Research 12-inch FR-66s is a strong deal, sitting well below the typical used market where similar Japanese units often list between A$3,500 and A$4,500. Recent clearance data shows an FR-12 dropping to A$1,500, but the FR-66s remains more sought-after for its 12-inch versatility and robust bearing, making A$3,000 fair-to-low for a very_good condition example.
This arm is well-regarded for its low mass, excellent tracking, and iconic Japanese build quality that pairs beautifully with high-output MC cartridges. The listing includes original headshells (FR-S3, FR-S5) and phono cable, adding meaningful value and confirming it’s a complete, ready-to-use package. With no noted damage or missing parts, this is a buying opportunity for enthusiasts seeking a proven 12-inch arm without the premium pricing of newer models.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Fidelity Research emerged from Tokyo in 1964, founded by Isamu Ikeda amid Japan's postwar audio boom. The company quickly established itself as a precision engineering powerhouse, focusing on analog playback components during the golden age of vinyl. Operating until around 1984, it embodied the meticulous craftsmanship that defined high-end Japanese hi-fi, with designs that prioritized sonic purity and mechanical innovation.
The brand specialized in moving-coil (MC) phono cartridges and tonearms, earning acclaim for models like the MC-202 cartridge and the iconic FR-64 and FR-66 series. These products featured advanced materials such as stainless steel and specialized alloys, delivering exceptional tracking, detail retrieval, and dynamics. While not venturing into amplifiers, speakers, or digital gear like DACs, Fidelity Research honed a narrow but masterful niche in turntable essentials.
Today, Fidelity Research holds vintage-collector status among discerning audiophiles, revered for its high-end analog prowess. Once priced at premiums like $495 for top tonearms, its gear commands cult following in the used market, prized for timeless transparency and build quality that rivals modern boutique offerings. For vinyl enthusiasts seeking uncompromised heritage, it remains a benchmark.
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