20-3A

The SME 20-3A is a high-mass suspended turntable engineered around rigidity and vibration control. Its 28.6kg construction, extensive structural damping and carefully controlled interfaces reduce mechanical and acoustic influences on analogue playback, providing a stable platform with low resonance, detail, dynamics and tonal neutrality.

A 16mm-thick sub-chassis is suspended by 40 purpose-moulded O-rings, creating 80 rubber suspension strands. Adjustable suspension and damping allow precise setup, while a central fluid damper controls sub-chassis movement and provides a resistive path for unwanted acoustic energy. Transport locks secure the sub-chassis when required, and adjustable mounting options are provided.

The 11kg sub-chassis supports a 6.5kg Isodamp platter with a precision-machined fine-scroll surface for an effective record interface. A screw-down reflex record clamp helps minimise record resonance. The 19mm hardened, ground and super-finished steel spindle runs in a sealed oil-bath bearing for long-term stability.

Drive comes from a three-phase brushless motor using eight-pole neodymium magnets and 3 Hall sensors. A high-performance microprocessor provides closed-loop speed control, with fine adjustment in 0.01% increments. The SME Model 20/3 supports 33⅓, 45 and 78rpm operation through a shielded control unit with LED indicators. A large-diameter stroboscopic disc is supplied.

• 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