The SME Model 12 Mk2 is a precision-engineered high-end turntable designed around exceptional rotational stability, mechanical rigidity and vibration control. It combines SME's high-density polymer chassis with a precision belt-drive system, heavy-machined platter and the acclaimed SME Series Vi tonearm. The Mk2 incorporates refinements to the original Model 12 platform while retaining SME's focus on accurate, low-resonance analogue reproduction.
The Model 12 Mk2 uses a precision AC motor and belt-drive system engineered for stable and accurate platter rotation. Electronic speed regulation controls the motor while allowing fine adjustment of playback speed for accurate pitch reproduction.
| Drive Method | Belt Drive |
|---|---|
| Motor Type | Precision AC Motor |
| Speed Control | Electronic |
| Playback Speeds | 33⅓ RPM / 45 RPM |
| Speed Adjustment | Fine Electronic Adjustment |
A substantial precision-machined platter provides a stable platform for record playback. Its high-mass construction helps maintain consistent rotational momentum while the precision bearing system supports smooth and controlled operation.
| Platter Construction | Precision Machined High-Mass Platter |
|---|---|
| Drive | Belt Driven |
| Record Coupling | Supplied Record Weight |
| Main Bearing | Precision Bearing System |
The SME Series V tonearm is one of SME's reference tonearm designs. Its magnesium arm tube and precision bearing system are engineered to provide accurate cartridge tracking while controlling unwanted resonance. The tonearm incorporates adjustable tracking force, anti-skating and vertical height, allowing precise cartridge setup.
| Tonearm | SME Series V |
|---|---|
| Arm Material | Magnesium Alloy |
| Effective Length | 233.15 mm |
| Effective Mass | 10 g |
| Overhang | 17.15 mm |
| Offset Angle | 23° |
| Cartridge Balance Range | 6–14 g |
| Tracking Force Range | 0–2.5 g |
| Headshell | Integrated / Fixed |
| Internal Wiring | Crystal Cable |
The Model 12 Mk2 is built around a CNC-machined high-density polymer chassis. The material and high-mass construction are designed to suppress unwanted vibration and provide a rigid foundation for the drive system, platter and tonearm.
| Chassis Material | CNC-Machined High-Density Polymer |
|---|---|
| Construction | High-Mass / Rigid |
| Resonance Control | High-Density Polymer Construction |
| Tonearm Mounting | Integrated Precision Mounting Platform |
The turntable incorporates adjustable isolation feet that provide accurate levelling and help isolate the playback mechanism from external vibration. Correct levelling is particularly important for maintaining precise tonearm geometry and cartridge tracking.
| Feet | Adjustable Isolation Feet |
|---|---|
| Levelling | Adjustable |
| Isolation | Mechanical Isolation System |
The Model 12 Mk2 provides a dedicated analogue phono output for connection to an external phono stage or compatible amplifier. The turntable does not include a built-in phono preamplifier or digital audio output.
| Audio Output | RCA Phono Output |
|---|---|
| RCA Connections | Gold-Plated |
| Internal Tonearm Wiring | Crystal Cable |
| Built-In Phono Stage | No |
| Digital Output | No |
| Earth Connection | Yes |
The electronically regulated drive system is designed to provide stable 33⅓ and 45 RPM playback. Fine speed adjustment allows the platter speed to be accurately trimmed when required.
| Playback Speeds | 33⅓ RPM / 45 RPM |
|---|---|
| Speed Regulation | Electronic |
| Speed Adjustment | Fine Electronic Adjustment |
| Wow & Flutter | Low-Variation Precision Drive System |
| Width | 490 mm / 49 cm |
|---|---|
| Depth | 430 mm / 43 cm |
| Height | 190 mm / 19 cm |
| Dimensions | 490 × 430 × 190 mm |
| Product Weight | 23 kg |