30-2 MKII Turntable

The SME 30-2 MKII is a high-mass, suspended turntable designed to complement the SME Series V tonearm. It combines neutral, detailed and dynamic performance with straightforward operation and no critical setup procedures.

Its 19mm aluminium sub-chassis weighs approximately 17kg, and the four-pillar base adds a further 16kg. The rigid construction is extensively damped to minimise resonance and vibration. Suspension is provided by 48 purpose-moulded O-rings, forming 96 rubber suspension strands without conventional metal springs. Four adjustable fluid dampers control sub-chassis movement, preventing overshoot and isolating the turntable from acoustic feedback. Transport locks secure the suspension when required.

The 330mm platter weighs 7kg and is supported by a 170.5mm-long, 19mm-diameter spindle. The spindle runs in a sealed housing with individually fitted sintered-bronze bearings. A fine-scroll platter surface and reflex clamp maintain close record contact, while dowel locating pins allow arm mounting plinths to be exchanged accurately.

Drive comes from a 2.5kg electronically commutated motor, isolated on urethane mounts and virtually free from cogging and vibration. A precision stainless-steel pulley, concentric to within ±2.5 microns, drives the damped 2.3kg sub-platter through a ground rubber belt. Four captive transit screws protect the main spindle bearing during transportation.

A microprocessor controls the platter speed at 33.3, 45 and 78rpm, with user-adjustable speed variation. The 4-layer surface-mount controller contributes to the accuracy and stability of the drive system.

• Height Setting Gauge
• Ø300mm Stroboscopic Disc
• Reflex Record Clamp
• Record Spindle Washer
• Soft Protective Cover
• Operating Instruction Manual