SME Model 20 MK2

Hand-built reference-grade turntable

The SME Model 20 MK2 precision turntable is a high-mass, suspended belt drive deck for vinyl connoisseurs seeking a true reference turntable, and we stock the Model 20 MK2 exclusively for serious analogue systems across India. With the Model 20 MK2 turntable, you get massive construction, meticulous engineering and an isolation philosophy that makes this audiophile turntable a natural choice for demanding listening rooms and dedicated music spaces.

High-mass architecture for silent backgrounds

The SME Model 20 MK2 weighs 26kg, a density that is remarkable for its compact footprint. High density and stiffness mean the chassis and sub-chassis flex less and store less energy, so vibrations decay quickly instead of masking low-level detail. The 16mm main and sub-chassis, machined from premium aluminium billet, are carefully damped to reduce both low and high frequency resonance.

In practice, the Model 20 MK2 presents music against a calm, silent background. Subtle reverberation tails, room cues and microdynamics are easier to follow, making complex recordings feel more spacious and intelligible.

Suspended sub-chassis and fluid damping

At the core of the SME Model 20 MK2 design is a suspended sub-chassis supported by forty purpose-made suspension rings. This system isolates the bearing, platter and tonearm from air-borne and structural vibration from loudspeakers, floors and building structure.

A large central fluid damper disciplines the sub-chassis motion and provides a controlled energy path for acoustic feedback generated in the record and tonearm assembly. This combination of suspension and fluid damping gives the Model 20 MK2 a distinctive sense of stability when cueing records, while contributing to the turntable’s tonal neutrality and timing precision.

Precision platter and record interface

The SME Model 20 MK2 platter is machined from aluminium alloy and weighs 6.5kg. It is extensionally damped and topped with an iso-damp mat that is diamond-turned with a fine scroll pattern. This creates myriad microscopic contact points with the underside of the record, improving energy transfer and reducing stored resonance in the vinyl itself.

A substantial reflex clamp secures even slightly warped records, pressing them into intimate contact with the platter surface. The result is firmer bass, improved image focus and more consistent tracking across the entire side.

Advanced belt drive and DSP speed control

The SME Model 20 MK2 is powered by a custom bi-phase AC synchronous motor designed for silent running. A dedicated electronic Speed Control Unit uses a DSP engine to generate two pure mathematical sine waves with precise control over frequency, phase and amplitude, which are individually matched to the motor.

Speeds of 33⅓ and 45rpm are selectable, with independent memory settings. Fine pitch adjustment in 0.01% steps allows you to lock in exact speed. This sophisticated control architecture delivers superb pitch stability, essential for piano, strings and sustained tones where any wow or flutter becomes immediately apparent.

Independent power unit and low-noise cabling

The SME Model 20 MK2uses an independent mains Power Unit that houses the transformer away from the audio circuitry, Speed Control Unit and delicate signal cables. Power is delivered via LEMO low power cables, with carefully designed connectors that prevent mis-connection and maintain reliable contact.

On the output side, the Model 20 MK2 provides high-quality chassis connectors in either RCA or balanced XLR format (depending on configuration), making it straightforward to integrate into both domestic and studio-grade systems.

Series Vi tonearm for precise tracking

The definitive performance configuration of the Model 20 MK2is supplied with the SME Series Vi tonearm, complete with Crystal Cable internal wiring. This arm is engineered for rigidity, low friction and precise geometry, allowing cartridges to track complex grooves accurately and consistently.

The combination of the SME Model 20 MK2 chassis and the SME Series Vi tonearm gives you a coherent mechanical system designed as a whole, which translates into stable imaging, powerful yet controlled bass and effortless dynamics.

What’s in the box

Every SME Model 20 MK2 is supplied with:

• Model 20 MK2 turntable with mounted tonearm

• Speed Control Unit

• Power Unit (100V / 115V / 230V compatible)

• LEMO power cables (A & B)

• AC mains power cable (region-appropriate plug)

• Drive belt

• 6.5kg platter and record clamp

• Stroboscopic disc for speed checking

• Bearing oil syringe and oil filler adaptor

• Suspension height setting gauge

• Record spindle washer

• Hex wrenches and box spanner

• Tonearm tool kit

• Instruction manuals and guarantee documentation

Compatibility and 230V operation for India

The SME Model 20 MK2 Power Unit is designed for international use, with settings for 100V, 115V and 230V mains. That makes the Model 20 MK2 a perfect audiophile turntable 230V India solution, ready for stable operation on local power without additional step-down transformers.

The SME Series Vi tonearm accepts a wide range of high-quality moving-coil and moving-magnet cartridges via standard cartridge mounting, and the turntable interfaces with your chosen phono stage through RCA or XLR outputs. Whether you are building a high end turntable front end for an existing reference system or assembling a new flagship vinyl chain, the Model 20 MK2 integrates seamlessly.

Setup, placement and isolation tips

For best performance, the SME Model 20 MK2 should be placed on a substantial table or high-quality audio rack in its final position before setup. Four height-adjustable feet allow precise levelling of the main chassis.

The feet can interface with the surface via rubber insert pads or stainless steel balls (as supplied). Rubber pads suit most shelves and furniture; the ball interface is ideal for rigid stands but should be avoided on delicate surfaces. Once levelled, the suspended sub-chassis height is set using the supplied gauge, ensuring correct immersion of the bearing housing in the damping bath.

With its suspended suspension system, fluid damping and premium isolation feet, the Model 20 MK2 behaves as a premium turntable with isolation feet already engineered into the design, further reducing the need for aftermarket tweaks.

Pairing suggestions for high-end systems

For vinyl collections centred on classical, jazz and acoustic recordings, the SME Model 20 offers exceptional tonal colour and microdynamics. Rock and electronic listeners benefit from the deck’s pitch stability and bass control, which keep complex low frequencies tight and propulsive.

For those exploring the Model 20 MK2 enquiry route alongside the SME Model 20/12, the SME Model 20 offers an intermediate footprint with outstanding performance, while the Model 20/12 adds a 12-inch tonearm and larger sub-chassis. Both are true reference turntable options for vinyl connoisseurs.

Enquiry-led purchase experience in India

Rather than an off-the-shelf item, the Model 20 MK2 is typically specified as part of a carefully matched system. For an SME Model 20 price guidance, availability and configuration options, we recommend a direct enquiry so we can discuss your listening room, partnering equipment and upgrade path.

Whether you are ready to buy the SME Model 20 MK2 for an established reference system or planning a future upgrade, our role is to help you audition, specify and integrate this high-end turntable in a way that fully serves your music and environment.

About SME

SME has been machining precision components in West Sussex, England since 1946, bringing aerospace-level tolerances to analogue replay. The company’s turntables and tonearms are designed, manufactured and assembled in-house, allowing complete control over materials, finishing and quality.

The SME Model 20 MK2  is part of this lineage: a distillation of decades of experience in high mass, low-resonance engineering. Each deck is built by specialists who understand not only the mechanics of vibration control but also its impact on musical communication. For music lovers exploring the wider SME universe, you can continue your journey through our dedicated SME brand archive, where the full range of SME turntables and tonearms is presented in one place.