SME Model 12A Turntable Paired with Lyra Kleos MC Cartridge - New Condition
General:
The SME Model 12A is one of the finest modern belt-driven turntables from legendary British manufacturer SME. Originally priced at $15,599, the Model 12A was built to a very high standard and still stands out for its exceptional build quality and performance.
Designed specifically to pair with the SME 309, this setup offers excellent geometry, compatibility, The moment you handle the Model 12A, its build quality is immediately obvious. Everything about the table feels carefully thought out. This is a seriously solid and overbuilt turntable that is designed to last for decades.
The separate quartz-locked motor power supply helps provide excellent speed consistency and is a feature usually found on higher-end turntables. Having the motor electronics separated from the main plinth is also beneficial for long-term serviceability.
Included and mounted is a brand new Lyra Kleos MC Cartridge ($4495). It will be fully calibrated using our 12-step setup process ($390) to ensure the table performs at its best right out of the box. If you would like a different cartridge installed, contact us before purchasing.
The turntable and all included accessories/tools will be packed carefully using its original box and factory packing materials to help ensure safe arrival.
SkyFi Cosmetic Notes:
Condition is unused. This was setup by a dealer and never used by the client.
Ownership:
Single Owner
Connections:
RCA phono output W/ ground
General Sound:
Smooth, uncolored, undistorted natural and clean
Cosmetic Condition:
New Condition
Working Condition:
Working perfectly and calibrated on our custom turntable calibration stand.
Included:
All original accessories, Turnatable, Power supply, Cartridge, Box
Packing:
Original Manufacturers Packing
Reviews:
Click Here
Original MSRP:
$15,599.00
Specs:
- Drive System: Belt Drive
- Motor Unit: Separate Quartz-Locked AC Power Supply
- Tonearm: SME 309 Precision Tonearm
- Speed Options: 33⅓ and 45 RPM
- Speed Control: Electronic Speed Selection
- Platter: Precision Machined Alloy Platter
- Suspension: Mass-Loaded Non-Suspended Design
- Construction: High-Mass Chassis with Damped Architecture
- Finish: Black
Dimensions:
Width: 17.3 in (440mm)
Depth: 13.7 in (348mm)
Height: 6.3 in (160mm)
Weight:
36 lbs.
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.
Description
General:
The SME Model 12A is one of the finest modern belt-driven turntables from legendary British manufacturer SME. Originally priced at $15,599, the Model 12A was built to a very high standard and still stands out for its exceptional build quality and performance.
Designed specifically to pair with the SME 309, this setup offers excellent geometry, compatibility, The moment you handle the Model 12A, its build quality is immediately obvious. Everything about the table feels carefully thought out. This is a seriously solid and overbuilt turntable that is designed to last for decades.
The separate quartz-locked motor power supply helps provide excellent speed consistency and is a feature usually found on higher-end turntables. Having the motor electronics separated from the main plinth is also beneficial for long-term serviceability.
Included and mounted is a brand new Lyra Kleos MC Cartridge ($4495). It will be fully calibrated using our 12-step setup process ($390) to ensure the table performs at its best right out of the box. If you would like a different cartridge installed, contact us before purchasing.
The turntable and all included accessories/tools will be packed carefully using its original box and factory packing materials to help ensure safe arrival.
SkyFi Cosmetic Notes:
Condition is unused. This was setup by a dealer and never used by the client.
Ownership:
Single Owner
Connections:
RCA phono output W/ ground
General Sound:
Smooth, uncolored, undistorted natural and clean
Cosmetic Condition:
New Condition
Working Condition:
Working perfectly and calibrated on our custom turntable calibration stand.
Included:
All original accessories, Turnatable, Power supply, Cartridge, Box
Packing:
Original Manufacturers Packing
Reviews:
Click Here
Original MSRP:
$15,599.00
Specs:
- Drive System: Belt Drive
- Motor Unit: Separate Quartz-Locked AC Power Supply
- Tonearm: SME 309 Precision Tonearm
- Speed Options: 33⅓ and 45 RPM
- Speed Control: Electronic Speed Selection
- Platter: Precision Machined Alloy Platter
- Suspension: Mass-Loaded Non-Suspended Design
- Construction: High-Mass Chassis with Damped Architecture
- Finish: Black
Dimensions:
Width: 17.3 in (440mm)
Depth: 13.7 in (348mm)
Height: 6.3 in (160mm)
Weight:
36 lbs.
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.
