SME Model 20 Mk 2/Series V

SME launched the Model 20 turntable back in 1992. The partnering tonearm on our review sample, the now legendary Series V, dates back even further to 1986.

Since their respective launches, neither product has changed much bar the odd infrequent upgrade to the turntable's speed controller and the recent move to an AC motor that prompted the switch to Mk2 status. It is a testament to the quality of the original designs and the company's famed engineering excellence that each of these products remains hugely competitive, despite their advanced years.

In the metal, the belt-drive Model 20 Mk2 turntable looks small by price standards. Don't let that fool you. This deck weighs in at a hefty 26kg, largely thanks to the two 16mm thick slabs of premium-grade aluminium that form the bulk of the chassis. A chunky motor-housing sits on the lower layer, while the upper supports the main bearing, platter and tonearm. This top plate is isolated from the rest of the Model 20's structure by a total of 40 rubber 'O' rings shared equally between the four corner posts. That's not all. This top layer is also fluid-damped to control unwanted movement and resonances. The design is impressively effective at isolating the record/stylus interface from external disturbances and any mechanical vibrations generated by the motor.

EXCELLENT SPEED STABILITY

Each corner post has adjustable feet to level the deck on slightly uneven surfaces. These feet are also mechanically decoupled from the main chassis, which adds to the Model 20's already enviable ability to reject vibrations from its support. Good as the SME is in this respect, and compared with most rivals it is truly excellent, as with every record player you will still get the best performance when it is placed on a solid, level, low-resonance support positioned as far from the speakers as possible.