Terminator 3

About the Terminator 3

The Trans-Fi Terminator 3 is a specialist linear tracking tonearm that uses an air-bearing system to minimize friction and mechanical noise. It features a short, very rigid carbon-fiber wand that rides on an inverted V bearing supported by a layer of air, which greatly reduces energy transmission from the cartridge to the arm and improves sonic performance. The arm includes an offset knife-edge bearing with a threaded spindle counterweight for precise and repeatable vertical tracking force (VTF) adjustments. The low mass wand design helps prevent stylus deflection on out-of-center records. The arm requires an external air pump, which is typically an aquarium pump feeding a smoothing tank to provide stable airflow. The Terminator 3 is noted for its ease of setup, including simple leveling and airflow rate adjustments, and is aimed at experienced users familiar with tonearm setup parameters like VTF and vertical tracking angle (VTA). It weighs approximately 800 grams and is considered one of the shortest and lowest mass air-bearing arms available, contributing to its sonic advantages. Optional accessories include a digital VTA display for precise height adjustments. The arm is highly regarded for its reliability and sound quality but requires careful installation and setup, including a suitable mounting block for the turntable.