Opinion on SME 15
I posted this on another forum, but thought I might have more luck here.
I'm thinking of replacing my VPI TNT with a final turntable to see me into the foreseeable future. The TNT (series 1, bought in 1989, with various upgrades over the years) has a Graham Phantom II with a SME base and my new table would be something to exploit that tonearm.
The stellar build quality and SME longevity have great appeal to me. Price wise I could only stretch to the SME 15. It seems to have the main objective criteria covered: Effective isolation, non-resonant chassis, superbly quiet bearing and excellent speed stability. The reviews I've read indicate excellent sound quality - though they have all reviewed the table in 15A guise, i.e. with the SME 309 arm.
Many SME owners seem to love their tables, but there is a portion of vinyl enthusiasts who describe SME as detached and un-emotional, lacking in PRAT (?). I am seeking a neutral platform to hear what's on my records, not a stylised boutique sound - but of course I want it to be enjoyable.
I was hoping owners of the SME 15 would chip in with their longer term impressions. Still loving it?
Actually any SME impressions would be useful - particularly the Graham/SME combo - or if you switched from SME and why.
@tobes A ’rumble filter’ doesn’t help?FWIW I wouldn't use one because I think the cure is worse than the problem. I don't think they should be required with any high quality turntable, more for your cheap decks where SQ is not paramount. Here's one opinion on them: https://www.hifisystemcomponents.com/forum/why-rumble-filters-are-bad_topic2842.html |
@tobes Since you already have a fairly good front end, you will have to be careful you do not go backwards. My experience with SME, beautifully built, superb service and support. However sound wise I sold my Platine Verdier to someone who had the SME 20. My refurbished (vey trick) Garrard 301 bettered the Verdier by a margin. However the Garrards require much fettling. If you want a set and forget front end, from your comments on Australian pricing, why dont you see if you can hear a Stabi R with the Kuzma4Point11. I believe from hearing both the Phantom and the Kuzma 4Point11 that the Kuzma arm is considerably better. If you sell off the Graham that should enable you to get the Stabi R/4Point11 combo for a similar upgrade price to the SME 15. If you must have SME, personally I would try and find a SME 20/3 at a good price - it is significantly better than the 15 and standard 20. Bob Graham used a SME 30 for many years. |
Don't ignore the Kuzma Ref2 because it's been in production for over 20 years. I'm sure the Stabi R is a very nice sounding table, but I have no regrets for buying my Ref 2 w/ 313 VTA arm. Have to say a Stabi R with the Graham would allow you to ad a second arm in the future, which would be pretty great. |
