20-3A

The SME Model 20/3 is engineered around high mass, rigidity and sophisticated vibration control, minimising the mechanical and acoustic influences that can affect analogue playback. Its 28.6kg construction and carefully damped 11kg sub-chassis provide a highly stable platform designed for exceptional neutrality and low resonance.

The 16mm-thick sub-chassis is suspended on forty purpose-moulded O-rings, providing eighty rubber suspension strands. A central fluid damper controls movement and provides a resistive path for unwanted acoustic energy, while adjustable suspension allows precise setup. Transport locks secure the sub-chassis when required.

Extensive structural damping and carefully controlled interfaces manage unwanted vibrational energy, helping preserve the detail, dynamics and tonal neutrality of the recording.

The 6.5kg Isodamp platter features a precision-machined fine-scroll surface for an effective record interface, while a screw-down reflex clamp minimises record resonance. The 19mm hardened, ground and super-finished steel spindle runs in a sealed oil-bath bearing for long-term stability.

Drive is provided by a three-phase brushless motor with eight-pole neodymium magnets and three Hall sensors. A high-performance microprocessor provides closed-loop speed control with fine adjustment in 0.01% increments. Speeds of 33⅓, 45 and 78rpm are supported.

Key Features

• 28.6kg high-mass construction
• 11kg, 16mm-thick suspended sub-chassis
• 40 O-ring suspension with adjustable damping
• Central fluid damper
• 6.5kg Isodamp platter
• Precision 19mm steel spindle with sealed oil-bath bearing
• Screw-down reflex record clamp
• Extensive extensional and resistive damping
• Three-phase brushless motor with neodymium magnets
• Microprocessor-controlled closed-loop speed regulation
• ±0.01% fine speed adjustment
• 33⅓, 45 and 78rpm operation
• Adjustable mounting options
• Transit locking system
• Shielded control unit with LED indicators
• Large-diameter stroboscopic disc supplied