The SME Model 30 Mk2 is a reference-level precision turntable engineered for exceptionally stable and controlled vinyl playback. Its massive high-density construction suspended sub-chassis, advanced fluid damping and precision-machined platter are paired with the acclaimed SME Series Vᵢ tonearm to form a highly refined analogue playback platform.
The Model 30 Mk2 is built around a substantial, high-density aluminium structure designed to provide exceptional rigidity and resistance to unwanted mechanical energy. The precision-machined construction supports the suspended record-playing platform while maintaining a stable relationship between the platter, main bearing and tonearm.
| Chassis Material | High-Density CNC-Machined Aluminium |
|---|---|
| Construction | High-Mass / Precision Machined |
| Sub-Chassis | Precision-Machined Suspended Platform |
| Damping | Integrated Mechanical Damping |
The suspended sub-chassis isolates the platter and tonearm from the main chassis. SME's suspension arrangement uses 40 dedicated suspension rings, while a central fluid-damping system controls unwanted sub-chassis movement and resonance.
| Suspension Type | Suspended Sub-Chassis |
|---|---|
| Suspension Rings | 40 |
| Damping | Central Fluid Damping |
| Isolation Feet | 4 Adjustable Mechanically De-Coupled Feet |
The Model 30 Mk2 uses a large precision-machined aluminium platter weighing approximately 8.6 kg. The platter incorporates Iso-Damp treatment and a diamond-turned playing surface. Its precision main bearing uses a high-chrome tool-steel spindle and individually fitted bearing components for smooth and stable rotation.
| Platter Material | Precision-Machined Aluminium Alloy |
|---|---|
| Platter Weight | 8.6 kg |
| Platter Diameter | 325 mm |
| Platter Surface | Iso-Damp / Diamond-Turned |
| Spindle | 19 mm High-Chrome Tool Steel |
| Bearing | Individually Fitted Sintered Bronze Bearings |
| Record Clamp | Reflex-Principle Screw-Down Clamp |
The supplied SME Series Vᵢ tonearm is designed for precise cartridge alignment and highly controlled groove tracking. Its rigid construction and precision bearing system provide accurate cartridge positioning, while Crystal Cable internal wiring maintains a high-quality analogue signal path.
| Tonearm | SME Series Vᵢ |
|---|---|
| Construction | Precision Magnesium Construction |
| Effective Mass | 9.5 g |
| Cartridge Balance Range | 5–16 g |
| Vertical Tracking Force | 0–3 g |
| Overhang | 17.8 mm |
| Internal Wiring | Crystal Cable |
The Model 30 Mk2 employs a precision belt-drive arrangement powered by a custom bi-phase AC synchronous motor. The motor is electronically controlled to maintain accurate platter rotation at the selected playback speed.
| Drive Method | Belt Drive |
|---|---|
| Motor Type | Bi-Phase AC Synchronous Motor |
| Motor Control | DSP-Based Electronic Speed Control |
| Playback Speeds | 33⅓ RPM / 45 RPM |
| Fine Speed Adjustment | ±0.01% Increments |
The separate Speed Control Unit provides precision electronic management of the motor. Independent settings are available for 33⅓ and 45 RPM, with fine adjustment for precise speed calibration.
| Control System | DSP-Based Electronic Control |
|---|---|
| Speed Selection | 33⅓ RPM / 45 RPM |
| Speed Memory | Independent Settings |
| Fine Adjustment | ±0.01% |
The mains transformer is located in a separate external Power Unit. Keeping the transformer away from the turntable helps reduce unwanted interaction between the power supply and the sensitive analogue signal path.
| Power Supply | Separate External Power Unit |
|---|---|
| Transformer | Externally Located |
| Configuration | Dedicated Power Supply |
| Turntable Width | 546 mm / 54.6 cm |
|---|---|
| Turntable Depth | 465 mm / 46.5 cm |
| Turntable Height | 240 mm / 24 cm |
| Platter Diameter | 325 mm / 32.5 cm |
| Turntable Weight | 42 kg |
| Speed Control Unit Weight | 2.52 kg |
| Power Unit Weight | 4.04 kg |