SME 20/3 Turntable - SME Series V Magnesium Arm - New Lyra Kleos MC Cartridge

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General:
The SME 20/3 is an incredible turntable made in England with a last MSRP of $24,700.  The current iteration 20/3A MKII is over $36,000.   

The moment you pick up this turntable you realize this is a super overbuilt 'table that is designed to last for decades and then some. 

To the right of the 'table is a quartz-locked motor power supply, great for performance and repairability. Separate power supplies like this are only found on the best turntables available.

Another standout feature is the super cool suspension system that's designed to isolate the sub-chassis from external unwanted vibration. It's not only functional but it looks super cool.

Mounted is its original SME Series V Magnesium tonearm. This is a beautiful arm from a company known for making some of the best tonearms on the market.

For the phono cartridge, we decided to pair it with something special. We mounted a brand new Lyra Kleos Low Output MC Cartridge ($4,495). This will be perfectly calibrated using our 12 Step Premium Turntable/Cartridge Calibration ($390). The Kleos from Lyra is a beautiful cartridge featuring an Ogura manufactured boron cantilever and is well suited for a table such as this.

Also included is the dust cover and owner's manual. It will be packed using our in house process so it arrives safely at its new home.

Note: The audio output is via 5-pin DIN Phono Output, not RCA. If you need a DIN to RCA cable this TAK-CU specialty series from Kimber is out go-to: Click Here

SkyFi Cosmetic Notes:
The turntable is in great condition along with its power supply and tonearm. Dust cover is nearly scratch free. Fantastic shape overall.

SkyFi Technical Notes:
Calibrated motor drive for 33 RPM and 45 RPM. Installed new belt. Replaced some new suspension bands to get perfect 3mm travel with gauge.

Ownership:
Second Owner

Connections:
5 pin DIN Phono Output. (no cable included) 

General Sound:
Smooth, uncolored, undistorted natural and clean

Cosmetic Condition:
8/10 = Very Good. Excellent front faceplate, one minor flaw on chassis side or top. See our detailed rating description here.

Working Condition:
Working perfectly and calibrated on our custom turntable calibration stand.

Included:
Turntable, motor, cover, belt, cartridge, record weight and tonearm.

Packing:
Will be packed using our highly developed in-house process and custom packing materials.Reviews:
Click Here

Original MSRP:
$15,500.00

Specs:
Platter Diameter 325.0mm (12.80”)
Spindle to Arm 215.4mm (8.48”)

Dimensions:
Width 440.0mm (17.32”)
Depth 350.0mm (13.78”)
Height 173.5mm (6.83”)

Weight:
68 lbs.

Approximate Age:
2013

Link to Manual:
Click Here

Recommended Cables:
Kimber Kable - Phono Interconnects

Kimber Kable - Flagship Phono Interconnects

Testing Process:
First we try to identify any mechanical issues, particularly in the tonearm bearings. We check for freedom of movement or any resistance on both the horizontal and vertical range. There is a quick test for this which involves placing the table on its front edge and allowing the arm to swing freely like a pendulum. We then make any adjustments necessary to achieve minimal resistance and sometimes adjust the bearing pressure. On gimbal tonearms we inspect the cone tip with a magnifier.

We then assess the platter speed using one of several methods, the most accurate being playing a test tone on a test record and measuring the frequency output with a frequency counter or oscilloscope. We also utilize test equipment to measure the wow and flutter to ensure it is within spec. We do this for all speeds available for that particular model (33 RPM, 45 RPM, 78 RPM).

Adjustments are then made to achieve proper speed which will vary depending on the turntable's drive design. Some require an adjustment of an internal or external potentiometer, some will require a pulley or motor adjustment. We also inspect the platter bearing to ensure it is properly lubricated, keeping in mind that some bearings don't require lubrication at all

We then inspect the power supply and address any issues with overworked capacitors, particularly on Linn and later Thorens machines which tend to need attention.

On fully mechanical vintage tables like the Thorens TD-124 and Garrard 301/401 we will go thought the entire mechanism. Then replace any worn parts and lubricate all components necessary to ensure smooth operation, speed change, and low mechanical noise. 

When fitting a new phono cartridge we will go through our detailed calibration process which can involve as many as 12 steps depending on the tonearm design. We perform this work on our custom turntable calibration rig which was developed in-house.

Some of these steps include:
• Pivot to Spindle Adjustment
• Tracking Force
• Anti-Skate
• Tonearm Height
• Lifter Height
• VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle)
• Azimuth
• Stylus Distance and Overhang

We then do a critical listening test using our test records and our test system to ensure proper sonics.