Universal 12

About the Universal 12

The Clearaudio Universal 12 is the ultimate version of Clearaudio’s finest pivoted tonearm, developed especially for the Innovation series turntables. It features a 12-inch radial tonearm design that closely approximates linear tracking characteristics. The arm tube is an elongated three-piece telescoping carbon fiber construction that reduces resonance and adds rigidity while maintaining extremely low mass. It has precision-machined vertical and horizontal ball bearings with ultra-high tolerances for smooth, low-friction operation. The tonearm includes multiple interchangeable counterweights positioned close to the pivot point for optimal balance and fine tracking force adjustment. The aluminum one-piece headshell allows stable cartridge mounting and precise azimuth adjustment to maximize stereo separation. The magnetic anti-skating force is mechanically decoupled and adjustable via a locking thumb screw. Internal wiring uses Clearaudio’s Six Stream cable for superior signal integrity, ideal for high-quality moving coil cartridges. The Universal 12 is available in silver or black carbon with matching aluminum finishes, visually and sonically complementing Clearaudio Innovation turntables. It supports cartridge balance ranges from 2.9 g to 21 g, has an overhang of 13.01 mm, total length of 420 mm, effective length of 308.01 mm, mounting distance of 295 mm, offset angle of 18.85°, and weighs 760 g including counterweight. Fine adjustments for vertical tracking angle (VTA), vertical tracking force (VTF), and azimuth are easily made, with optional VTA lifter available for on-the-fly adjustment during playback. The tonearm comes with a 1.1 m Clearaudio Super Sixtream RCA cable and a five-year manufacturer’s warranty. It is manufactured in Germany to the highest quality standards.