South West Analogue Hi Fi Specialists Winsford Somerset TA24 7JH
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SME MODEL 20/12A turntable
The SME Model 20/12A was the first turntable produced by the company to specifically accept a 12" tone-arm. For over fifty years they have been producing the longer tone-arm for specialize markets but ARA eventually decided to produce his own. And what a tremendous success it has become with a remarkably relaxed, life like sound quality that is extremely appealing. To accompany the new turntable a new tone-arm was required and so the 312S was born. This combination was to be ARA`s last project as he sadly passed away in October 2006.
SME MODEL 20/12A turntable
The basis of this turntable was the Model 30/2 but in lightweight format to test the concept out rather than make a bigger machine. As we now know the later big turntable was to become the Model 30/12, that model as well as all of the other turntables and tone-arms has its own separate page on this site.
There are elements of the old Model 20/2 machine like the damping system but everything else is new and more substantial. Both chassis plates are thicker as well as much larger but with Isodamp to control unwanted resonance. The bearing and housing are larger and sealed for life and are more than adequate to support the new 6.5kg platter.
The sub-chassis is supported by 40 purpose moulded none resonant "O" rings and in the centre of the chassis is a viscous fluid bath in which the bearing housing sits too control sub-chassis movement and absorb vibrations.
This turntable requires a large platform cable of accepting its 35.5kg (78Ib) weight and 520 x 375 x 173.5mm size.
The Model 20/12 utilizes the same basic motor and power supply as the Model 30/2 and for more details on them please refer to that page on this site.
The standard tone-arm is the 312S but the Series V-12 is equally popular.
The RRP of the Model 20/12 turntable only is £8,780.15, this rises to £10,536.18 where UK VAT is required.
The RRP of the Model 20/12A including the 312S tone-arm is £10,395.35, this rises to £12,474.42 where UK VAT is required. The 312S with the Series V-12 weight assembly is available to order at no extra cost.
The RRP of the Model 20/12/A including the Series V-12 tone-arm is £11,882.63, this rises to £14,259.16 where UK VAT is required.
Our Performance Package is available for this turntable, please enquire for details