SME Model 30/2 Turntable & SME V Tonearm
The SME Model 30/2 turntable, paired with the SME Series V tonearm, is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished analogue replay systems ever produced. Introduced as an evolution of the original Model 30, this design reflects SME’s uncompromising approach to precision engineering, resonance control, and mechanical stability.
The Model 30 itself was first launched in 1991, with the “/2” designation referring to later updates—primarily to the power supply—while retaining the core engineering principles that established its reference status.
Key Features
- Reference-grade belt-drive turntable
- Advanced fluid-damped, multi-tower suspension system
- High-mass chassis and subchassis construction
- Electronic speed control with AC/synchronous motor
- Precision-machined bearing assembly
- Supplied with SME Series V tonearm
- Designed for moving-coil cartridge optimisation
Engineering & Design
Four-Post Suspension System
The Model 30/2 incorporates a highly sophisticated four-pillar suspension system, where the sub chassis is suspended using multiple O-rings and fluid damping. This design minimises vibration and eliminates unwanted oscillation, providing exceptional isolation from external disturbances.
High-Mass Construction
The turntable is built around a high-mass architecture to suppress resonance and improve stability. The original Model 30 platform is known to weigh approximately 42 kg (excluding arm and power supply), underlining its focus on mechanical grounding and vibration control.
Drive System & Speed Control
The Model 30/2 uses a belt-drive system with electronic speed control, ensuring highly accurate rotational stability and consistent playback performance.
SME Series V Tonearm
Introduced in 1986, the SME Series V tonearm remains one of the most respected tonearms in high-end audio. It was specifically developed as a medium-mass tonearm suited to moving-coil cartridges, which were becoming increasingly popular at the time.
Key Characteristics
- One-piece magnesium arm tube construction
- Medium effective mass design
- Ultra-precision bearing assembly
- Designed for maximum rigidity and minimal energy loss
- Optimised for low-compliance moving-coil cartridges
The Series V is engineered to ensure precise tracking accuracy and minimal resonance, allowing cartridges to extract maximum information from the record groove.
Specifications
Turntable – Model 30/2
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Drive System | Belt drive |
| Speed Control | Electronic |
| Speeds | 33⅓, 45 RPM |
| Suspension | Four-post, fluid-damped, O-ring suspended |
| Chassis Design | High-mass, multi-layer construction |
| Weight | Approx. 42 kg (platform reference, excluding ancillaries) |
Tonearm – SME Series V
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Pivoted tonearm |
| Introduction Year | 1986 |
| Construction | Magnesium arm tube |
| Effective Mass | Medium mass (designed for MC cartridges) |
| Application | Optimised for moving-coil cartridges |
| Weight | Approx. 0.72 kg |
The SME Model 30/2 with Series V tonearm is a true reference analogue front end, defined by its mechanical precision, advanced suspension engineering, and enduring design philosophy. Decades after its introduction, it remains a benchmark for vinyl playback, offering a level of stability, neutrality, and resolution that continues to set standards in high-end audio.
Note: Units are complete and boxed in original packaging. This product is sold without a Cartridge.
R248,000.00
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