The SME Model 20/12 Mk2 is a high-end precision turntable designed for demanding vinyl playback. Its substantial high-mass construction, suspended sub-chassis and advanced damping system provide a stable platform for the large-diameter platter, while the supplied SME Series Vᵢ tonearm provides precise cartridge control and tracking.
The Model 20/12 Mk2 uses a rigid, precision-machined aluminium chassis designed to provide a stable foundation for the platter, bearing and tonearm. The substantial construction is combined with damping treatments to control unwanted mechanical resonance.
| Chassis Material | CNC-Machined Aluminium |
|---|---|
| Main Chassis Plate | 16 mm |
| Sub-Chassis Plate | 16 mm |
| Construction | High-Mass / Rigid |
The suspended sub-chassis isolates the record-playing platform from external mechanical energy. The system uses 40 purpose-made suspension rings together with central fluid damping to control 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 |
A substantial precision-machined aluminium platter provides the rotational platform for the record. The platter incorporates Iso-Damp treatment and a diamond-turned playing surface, while the precision main bearing uses a high-chrome tool-steel spindle and individually fitted sintered-bronze bearings.
| Platter Material | Precision-Machined Aluminium Alloy |
|---|---|
| Platter Weight | 6.5 kg |
| Platter Diameter | 325 mm |
| Platter Surface | Iso-Damp / Diamond-Turned |
| Spindle Diameter | 19 mm |
| Spindle Material | High-Chrome Tool Steel |
| Bearing | Individually Fitted Sintered Bronze Bearings |
| Record Clamp | Reflex-Principle Screw-Down Clamp |
The supplied SME Series Vᵢ tonearm is engineered for accurate cartridge alignment, controlled resonance and precise groove tracking. Its rigid construction and precision bearing arrangement provide stable cartridge positioning across the record surface.
| Tonearm | SME Series Vᵢ |
|---|---|
| Arm 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 20/12 Mk2 employs a belt-drive system powered by a custom bi-phase AC synchronous motor. The motor is controlled electronically to maintain accurate platter speed and stable rotation.
| 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 dedicated Speed Control Unit manages the motor's operating frequency, phase and amplitude. Independent settings are provided for 33⅓ and 45 RPM, with fine adjustment available for precise pitch control.
| Control System | DSP-Based Electronic Control |
|---|---|
| Speed Selection | 33⅓ RPM / 45 RPM |
| Speed Memory | Independent Settings |
| Fine Adjustment | ±0.01% |
The mains transformer is housed in a separate external Power Unit. This keeps the transformer physically away from the turntable and sensitive analogue signal wiring.
| Power Supply | Separate External Power Unit |
|---|---|
| Transformer | External / Isolated from Turntable |
| Configuration | Dedicated Power Supply |
The tonearm signal path uses premium Crystal Cable internal wiring, with the turntable designed to integrate with an external phono stage and amplifier.
| Tonearm Wiring | Crystal Cable |
|---|---|
| Output Connection | RCA / XLR |
| Phono Stage | External Required |
| Turntable Width | 440 mm / 44 cm |
|---|---|
| Turntable Depth | 350 mm / 35 cm |
| Turntable Height | 175 mm / 17.5 cm |
| Platter Diameter | 325 mm / 32.5 cm |
| Turntable Weight | 26 kg |
| Speed Control Unit Weight | 2.52 kg |
| Power Unit Weight | 4.04 kg |