MODEL 30/12

MODEL 30/12

A larger and more robust version of the well-known SME Model 30/2 turntable. Designed to work with tonearms ranging from nine to twelve inches in length. The best results can be achieved using the specially designed 12-inch Series V~12 tonearm.
The design solutions employed are what make this turntable unique. In the world of physics, there is a principle that as mass and rigidity increase, a structure is less susceptible to vibrations and oscillations. The basis of this turntable’s operation is its soft suspension system, which enables highly precise damping of the vibrations generated during the operation of any mechanical system. By combining high mass, rigidity, and soft suspension, the MODEL 30/12 guarantees optimal utilization of all the advantages of such a design. Compared to the version with a 9″ tonearm, the Model 30/12 reduces the angular tracking error of the cartridge by 27%. The turntable weighs over 53 kg, which, combined with its compact design, further stiffens the entire structure.

At the heart of the design is a soft suspension system, implemented in this case in a rather unconventional way. Unlike traditional designs that use a “floating” suspension—in which the subchassis is mounted on vibration-absorbing elements—SME employs a suspension system that mounts the subchassis on a damping system. The main advantage of this solution is the system’s perfect centering, which minimizes the impact of external factors on the turntable’s stability. The columns serving as support elements are additionally equipped with oil damping that completely isolates the subchassis from its surroundings. The illustration shown here demonstrates the advantages of this system over conventional solutions.
The turntable’s moving parts are manufactured with great precision and attention to quality. The platter bearing consists of a spindle 170.5 mm long and 19 mm in diameter; the raceways are made of bronze. The platter has a diameter of 330 mm and weighs 7 kg. Power is transmitted from a 2.5-kg motor via a belt to a flywheel with a diameter of 209 mm and a mass of 2.3 kg, located directly beneath the platter.

Basic Technical Specifications:

Turntable dimensions – 530 x 400 x 232 mm
Weight (with power supply) – 53.5 kg.
Power supply: 230V
Power consumption: 9W
Rotation speeds: 33 1/3, 45, 78 rpm – with stepless adjustment.
Subchassis suspended on 60 rubber rings
Suspension leveling screws
Oil damping to control the subchassis position and eliminate vibrations transmitted to the base
Platter spindle made of chrome-plated machine-grade steel
Tracking force applied to the platter to reduce record resonance
7.5 kg platter lined with a special damping material
Adjustable rings in the base for leveling the turntable
High-torque 3-phase AC motor.

The turntable is available in two versions with different configurations:
MODEL 30/12
Version equipped only with a tonearm mount—tonearm not included
MODEL 30/12A
Version equipped with a complete V~12 SERIES tonearm