SME Audio Model 12 Diamond Series Turntable
11 500,00 €
SME Audio Model 12 Diamond Series is a turntable for a high-end stereo system. It includes an SME 309 magnesium tonearm and Crystal Cable wiring. Its 33.3, 45 and 78 rpm modes accommodate different record formats, while the external microprocessor control unit provides speed adjustment in 0.01% increments. The 25.9 kg construction requires a rigid, level support.
SME Audio Model 12 Diamond Series is a turntable designed for a high-end stereo system. Its standard package includes the SME 309 magnesium tonearm and Crystal Cable wiring. Three selectable playback speeds accommodate records in different formats.
This edition was created to mark SME’s 75th anniversary, celebrated in 2021. Developed from the Synergy platform, it carries over characteristic elements of that model’s design. SME was founded in 1946.
Construction and finish
The turntable’s machined base creates clean, precise lines, while smaller details are finished by hand. Black chrome elements provide visual contrast without defining the main colour of the chassis.
Considerable mass is concentrated within a compact 370 × 350 mm footprint. As a result, the load-bearing capacity of the supporting furniture is more important than having an especially wide surface. A high-precision bearing is used to support stable record rotation, while the isolated suspension reduces the transfer of vibration from the supporting surface to the turntable mechanism.
Tonearm and connections
The supplied SME 309 tonearm is made from magnesium and forms part of the standard package. Crystal Cable signal cabling and internal wiring are also included. A phono cartridge is not identified in the package description, so its inclusion and compatibility should be confirmed before purchase.
After installing a phono cartridge, its alignment and tracking force must be adjusted correctly. Follow the operating parameters specified for the selected cartridge. The output from the phono stage should then be connected to a line-level input on the stereo amplifier.
Speed control
The electronic control unit uses a microprocessor configured for motor operation. Its closed-loop control system works with a proportional-integral algorithm. Playback speed can be set to 33.3, 45 or 78 rpm, allowing the turntable to handle the corresponding record formats.
Fine adjustment changes the selected speed in 0.01% increments in either direction. This feature should be used only after a speed deviation has been identified. Speed is selected from the front of the control unit, with LED indicators showing the current status.
Placement
With a net weight of 25.9 kg, the Model 12 Diamond Series requires a rigid, level piece of furniture. The supporting surface must carry the turntable without bending, rocking or becoming unstable. Check that the base is level before performing final turntable and cartridge adjustments.
The speed-control electronics and power supply are housed in a separate enclosure, so additional space must be reserved beside the turntable. This enclosure is CNC-machined from a single billet. When planning delivery, unpacking or relocation, take the 31 kg shipping weight into account.
Technical specifications
| Product type | Turntable |
|---|---|
| Series | Model 12 Diamond Series, created for SME’s 75th anniversary in 2021 |
| Platform | Developed from the SME Synergy platform |
| Included equipment | SME 309 tonearm, Crystal Cable signal cable and internal wiring |
| Tonearm material | Magnesium |
| Base finish | Machined construction with smaller details finished by hand |
| Design accents | Contrasting black chrome details and Synergy-inspired styling |
| Construction | High-mass base with a compact footprint |
| Bearing | High-precision bearing |
| Suspension | Isolated |
| Playback speeds | 33.3, 45 and 78 rpm |
| Fine speed adjustment | ±0.01% increments relative to the selected speed |
| Motor control | Microprocessor-based closed-loop PI algorithm |
| External unit | Speed-control electronics and power supply in a one-piece CNC-machined enclosure |
| Controls | Front speed-selection buttons and LED status indicators |
| Dimensions | 370 × 350 × 178 mm |
| Net weight | 25.9 kg |
| Shipping weight | 31 kg |
FAQ
Can the turntable be connected directly to an amplifier’s line input?
A line-level input alone is not sufficient. The signal from the phono cartridge must first pass through a phono stage suitable for that cartridge type.
How should I choose the correct playback speed?
Select the speed printed on the record or its label. Begin with the nominal setting and do not use fine adjustment unless a speed deviation has been identified.
When is the 0.01% speed adjustment needed?
It is useful when a speed measurement or a recording with a steady reference tone reveals a small deviation. Change the setting gradually in small increments.
What type of furniture does this turntable require?
Choose a rigid, level surface designed to support the turntable’s weight. You must also leave sufficient room for the separate control and power-supply unit.
What is the practical benefit of the external electronics enclosure?
It keeps the speed-control electronics and power supply separate from the turntable base. Front-mounted controls also let you change speed without touching the turntable mechanism.
