30/12A

About the 30/12A

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'.