To SME or not to SME?

The upgrade bug is a given for most in this hobby. From time to time it's going to bite. It's that simple. Since the 'table is my only source - and likely the best candidate in my system for an upgrade - I've been doing a lot of research lately on a replacement. Unfortunately, it's not practical, or even possible where I'm located, to audition much of anything. So you read, read, read, question, speculate, read between the lines, solicit opinions, extrapolate from what you've been able to glean, and then, when the urge becomes strong you have to dive in and hope for the best. The frustrating part is spending a lot of money but ending up short of where you hoped you would end up.

The Orbe is a very nice analogue source. I like the Orbe, it's just that I would like something better. I think I can do somewhat better all around with the SME - better detail, resolution, somewhat deeper, more accurate bass response etc. All the things we want from our systems. I think the Orbe, as nice as it is, is the weak link in my system. Maybe I'm chasing my tail a bit but I've wanted a SME table ever since I replaced my Origin Live Illustrious MK II with the SME V with the upgraded silver wiring. It's just such a great performer, so wonderfully engineered that I have a real hankering for one of their 'tables. I just wish I knew how much of an improvement a SME would bring.

Just ordered a SME 20/3 today. Hope it's the right move. Thanks to all the members who posted. After I get the 'table and run it in a bit, I'll post my findings for anyone who might be interested.

Hello everyone. I took the plunge and after some delays in setup (it's cottage season up here) I've now had a chance to do a bit of listening. I don't have time for anything approaching a review at the moment but I would like to simply put it to you that this was a very satisfying purchase. I'm trying not to take a huge bite of this audio candy all at once, preferring instead to nibble around the edges, but come this fall and the cool weather, I intend to re-discover a bunch of LP's. This is a very, very good turntable, even with my lowly DV Te Kaitora Rua cart and Nordost Tyr phono cable. Cheers!