The SOTA is understated in its looks, and it does look like the more basic tables such as the Nova or Sapphire, but its an interesting table none the less. The aluminum sub chassis is well done, and when you compare it to other high end subchassis on other suspended tables, it compares quite well. The magnetic bearing assembly is as good as anything out there, and the new platter composition also sounds well balanced tonally compared to previous versions. The motor assembly is not as complex as the multi pulley arrangements, but with the Phoenix Engineering speed control I think it does the job correctly, and is not an over priced over engineered solution. The composite arm boards are pretty darn fine also.
All in all it seems like a well executed design. Perhaps the SME V limits the overall overall performance of the table, and there is something to be gained there. It's just a thought.