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Alternative mat for SME turntable

Hello, I have an SME 10 turntable, I was wondering if anyone out there has ever experimented with other mats instead of the delicate one that is placed on the platter of the SME tables. I tried an origin live mat and don’t think it worked very well, made the sound less clear. I know there was another thread several years ago regarding this same issue but no one ever answered the question.
nlakoumentas
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,776 posts
 
Try a 10" vinyl record.

snackeyp's avatar
snackeyp
455 posts
 
I have a 20/2 and have been very happy with the stock mat.  
Is there something lacking for you or are you just curious?
My only concern is it seems like I have more static build up with this TT than others I have used in the past (mainly Clearaudio).  Was wondering if it's the mat causing this.  Have you experienced this?

lewm
13,056 posts
 
I have used a Boston Audio Mat2 on several different types of turntables, always with good results.  There is no "best" mat; it's a matter of taste and perception.
harold-not-the-barrel
895 posts
 
Buy a Reso-Mat, raise your records on acetate spikes above platter´s surface and let your records breathe ; )
nlakoumentas OP
16 posts
 
Hello snackeyp

The material on the SME platter is quite delicate and even the washer for clamp leaves a mark over time, stain it a little and that is it, it becomes permanent.  Was just thinking out loud I could find an alternative mat that would improve the sound and protect the delicate platter mat.  So far though whatever I have tried has yielded no results.  I will look into what others have suggested here but was curious if any SME owners had experimented.   
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