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The SME Model 30/12A is a high-end precision turntable that includes the flagship SME Series V-12 tonearm. It is a larger and more advanced version of the well-known Model 30/2, designed to accept nine, ten, and twelve inch arms but optimized for the Series V-12, which offers 27-30% better performance in angular error distortion compared to a nine inch arm. The turntable weighs over 50 kg and features heavy mass construction, extensional damping, an ingenious suspension system with 60 purpose-moulded 'O' rings supporting the sub-chassis on 120 strands of rubber, and intelligent acoustic treatment for superior audio excellence. The chassis and sub-chassis are CNC machined from premium grade aluminium billet and acoustically treated, with increased thickness for rigidity and acoustic neutrality. The main spindle is 19mm diameter, precision machined from high chrome tool steel, supported in a sealed housing with individually fitted sintered bronze bearings. The drive system uses a 3-phase brushless outrunner motor with 8-pole Neodymium magnets and integrated Hall sensors, isolated on urethane mounts for vibration control. Speed control is managed by a high-performance microprocessor with closed-loop control and fine pitch adjustment (+/-0.01%), supporting 33.3, 45, and 78 rpm speeds. The motor pulley is crowned and balanced for belt centrality and rotational balance. The Model 30/12A includes a comprehensive set of accessories such as a height setting gauge, stroboscopic disc, record clamp, spindle washer, soft cover, and operating manual. It is regarded as a reference standard turntable with outstanding detail, resolution, neutrality, and dynamic range, once judged as 'the best turntable of all time'.
Turntable mechanics and performance
Tonearm specifications
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The 30/2's weight is 42.5 kg (94 lbs) against the 30/12A's 53.5 kg (118 lbs), its height 220 mm against 232 mm, its depth 350 mm against 400 mm, and its width 450 mm against 530 mm.
The TD 124 DD's platter weight is 3.5 kg (8 lbs) against the 30/12A's 2.3 kg (5 lbs), its platter material Aluminum against Steel, and its weight 17 kg (37 lbs) against 53.5 kg (118 lbs). Both share drive type (Direct).
The SL-1000RE-S's platter weight is 7.9 kg (17 lbs) against the 30/12A's 2.3 kg (5 lbs), its platter material Aluminum against Steel, and its weight 40.2 kg (89 lbs) against 53.5 kg (118 lbs). Both share drive type (Direct).
The S7's platter weight is 11 kg (24 lbs) against the 30/12A's 2.3 kg (5 lbs), its drive type Belt against Direct, and its weight 48 kg (106 lbs) against 53.5 kg (118 lbs). Both share platter material (Steel).
20/3
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