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SME Model 20/3 - Playa
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SME Model 20/3

description SME Model 20/3 Overview

The SME Model 20/3 is a high-fidelity turntable manufactured by SME Limited, a British audio equipment company. The unit features a dense polymer plinth designed to minimize unwanted vibration and resonance. It incorporates a sophisticated suspension isolation system to protect the stylus from external mechanical interference. This turntable is engineered for vinyl record enthusiasts who prioritize precise playback and mechanical stability.

insights Ranking position

SME Model 20/3 ranks #6 of 467 in the Playa ranking, behind Garrard 301, ahead of Sony Walkman WM-DD9.

help SME Model 20/3 FAQ

What is the plinth material used in the SME Model 20/3 turntable?

The Model 20/3 features a dense polymer plinth specifically engineered to minimize unwanted vibration and resonance that could interfere with playback. This heavy, composite construction is central to the turntable's reputation for a quiet, stable sonic background.

Where is SME Limited, the manufacturer of the Model 20/3, based?

SME Limited is based in Steyning, West Sussex, England, and has been manufacturing high-fidelity audio equipment there since the 1960s. The company was originally known for its precision engineering roots before becoming a respected name in the audiophile world.

How does the SME Model 20/3's suspension isolation system work?

The turntable uses a sophisticated suspension system with visco-damped springs that isolate the platter and tonearm assembly from external mechanical vibrations transmitted through the supporting surface. This protects the cartridge's ability to read the record groove without interference from footfalls or structural resonance.

Does the SME Model 20/3 come with a built-in tonearm?

The Model 20/3 is typically sold paired with an SME tonearm from their own range, such as the SME Series V or SME M2, depending on the configuration chosen by the buyer. The tonearm is mounted on the same isolated sub-chassis as the platter bearing to ensure they move together as one unit.

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