SME 312S

Although a member of the Series 300 family this tone-arm warrants a separate page as it is different in many areas from the rest of the 300 range and is much nearer to the Series V-12 and can be regarded as a simplified, detachable headshell version of this top of the range super tonearm.

SME 312S

SME 312S

About ten years ago ARA was keen to produce a turntable which was capable of accepting a 12" tone-arm. As we now know this turntable was eventually produced and became the highly successful Model 20/12. But in the early days of development only a 312 tone-arm was available but with its Silver finish and aluminium tone-arm it did not quite fit his requirements. But this combination worked extremely well so ARA decided to produce a special version and this became the 312S.

The 312S had to have a magnesium tone-arm tube with a detachable headshell which meant a new extended design and to be produced to fit the new turntable and it had to be in Black chrome with Gold lines and decals, similar to the rest of the dedicated tone-arms. ARA was so pleased with his new tonearm he even used the top of the range pure Silver Litz internal wiring to replace the Series V wiring.

Because of the reduction in maximum track error and distortion plus the the magnesium tubing and the special wiring this tone-arm possess a sound quality of extreme beauty along with all the usual SME tone arm qualities. Combined with the Model 20/12 turntable is has a very relaxing but superbly detailed and involving sound which has a magic all of its own.

Some customers with a number of cartridges have used the 312S on the Model 30/12 because of the convenient way the headshell with cartridge attached can be easily changed..


The Series V-12 balance carriage and counter weight assembly are more pleasing to use and have a more up market appearance and can be factory fitted for new 312S arms as an option, as illustrated above.

The RRP of the 312S is £1,615.00 or £1,938.12 with VAT.

For our price, options and our audio lead upgrades please enquire.

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