Interesting debate this. It seems to me that vinyl replay always requires compromises and/or assumptions with respect to design, setup and/or alignment. The ARO presents a unique set of compromises, but then so does every other arm. There is no absolute right or wrong to this. If the ARO is for you, then you will be comfortable with the choices made by the designers and the inherent compromises. If you choose an alternative arm, then you opt for an alternate set of design choices and compromises.
FWIW I run an ARO and think it is a magnificent arm. In the past I have enjoyed SMEs, Regas and Rega clones (inter alia) on other decks with fixed and detachable headshells and slots...
Great post, htm - spot on!
Regards,
Andy