The Encounter arm builds on the outstanding performance of the Silver by improving the design and quality of all components. This is not just a development - it is a complete redesign. The entire yoke and base are different from the Silver tonearm. These structures, contain the horizontal and vertical bearings and are therefore highly influential on sound quality. The upgrade in design manifests itself in outstanding deep bass along with increased focus, stability and resolution through all frequencies. The tight and powerful bass carries the hallmark of authority and adds so much to the musical experience. In addition the arm dramatically improves the great transparency, tonal balance and sound-staging of the Silver arm. It produces a wonderful “live” feel to the music, with fabulous transient speed and “air”. The Encounter arm is outstanding.

"a new benchmark for musical communication, natural detail and timbral truth. All at a price that, considering the quality of its performance, can only be called a bargain."
STEREO TIMES MAGAZINE 2003

Preference Audio used this arm at a large show in Vienna and were awarded "the best sound at the show award". The decision was made using voting forms handed out by the show organisers to all members of the public attending the show. Against very stiff competition such as Linn, JM labs, Kronos, Audio Physics etc this vote says a great deal.
VIENNA SHOW

“I have owned about 60 different tonearms so far, including Immedia, Wheaton, SME V, Forsell, Mission Mechanic, Linn Ekos, Naim Aro, the above mentioned Audio Note and many others. And what counts more: it [the Encounter] is the best conventional (gimballed) one in that classs, and the best UK tonearm, too......At it’s price point I consider the Origin Live a best buy”
TNT AUDIO (square bracketed text added by origin Live for clarity)

“One of the truly special products I’ve reviewed in the past 18 years....Overall the Encounter’s look, feel and fit’n finish are exceptionally high for it’s modest price of $1495”.
STEREOPHILE

“There’s a lovely airy quality about the treble. It’s very clean too....The bottom end is tight and clean. Low frequencies ...when they’re present, boy are they present... A gorgeous tonearm”.
Hi Fi +

Specification Chart for Origin Live Tonearms

Features Comparison Chart for Origin Live Tonearms