15 MKII

The SME Model 15 draws on the engineering of the Model 10, bringing much of the performance and construction philosophy of the larger Model 20/3 and Model 30/2 into a more compact design.

Designed with SME’s characteristic precision and simplicity, the Model 15 combines understated styling with exceptional performance and sophisticated vibration control.

The sub-chassis is suspended on 30 purpose-moulded O-rings and, together with the platter, weighs over 11kg, providing the high-density construction needed to minimise resonance and coloration. Adjustable suspension allows precise setup, while a central fluid damper controls movement, prevents overshoot and provides a resistive path for unwanted acoustic energy.

The 4.6kg aluminium platter is extensively damped and diamond-turned with a fine-scroll surface for an effective record interface. A substantial reflex clamp maintains firm contact even with warped records.

A precision 19mm chrome tool-steel spindle, ground and super-finished, runs in a sealed bearing housing with individually fitted sintered-bronze bearings for stable platter support.

Drive is provided by a three-phase, brushless motor with eight-pole neodymium magnets and Hall sensors. A microprocessor-controlled, closed-loop system provides accurate speed regulation with fine adjustment in 0.01% increments. Speeds of 33.3, 45 and 78rpm are supported.

The Model 15 accommodates all SME 9- and 10-inch tonearms and is supplied with a soft dust cover. Available mains voltages are 90–110V, 105–125V and 220–240V, 50/60Hz.