2. analog
  3. 1307308648

To SME or not to SME?

...that is the question. I have an irrationally strong urge to sell my Orbe SE, a very nice 'table in it's own right and order a SME 20/3. I've posted an ad for a used 30/2 but haven't received any responses. I have a new SME V to mount on the table. Could the SME be a last 'table purchase, or will the urge strike again a couple of years down the road if not sooner? Thoughts, opinions from members with ownership or listening experiences with the Orbe SE or any of the SME tables would be greatly appreciated.
mikesmith

Showing 2 responses by manitunc

manitunc
795 posts
 
Sorry, didnt get to the bottom of the thread. Mea Culpa. enjoy.
manitunc
795 posts
 
For about a third the money, you can get a Sota Cosmos that has similar design principals as the SME, is US made, comes in a variety of finishes and will likely sound as good or better than the SME. And they partner well with the SME V that you already have. My Cosmos is a revelation compared to my other tables, and not because it does one thing well, but because it does everything well, with no particular emphasis or deficiency. And with the vacuum platter, it has something the SME will never have.

Alterntively, I would guess that the big Basis is the Sota's equal as a 4 point suspended table and either is cheaper, and I think better, than the SME 20. I admit, I havent heard the SME 20, but trying to put together a consensus from what I have read, it seems like a great table with no life or spark, much like marrying a model. I know the Sota is not like that.
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