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SOTA Nova vs SME 20/2

I currently own a Sota Nova series 5 with cosmos armboard (circa 1999) with an SME V tonearm recently serviced along with internal wiring upgrade at SME in England. Cart is Benz Micro Ruby2 H. Long story short, i am seriously considering replacing the Sota with a new SME 20/2. I would keep the SME V and mount it on the 20/2 along with the Ruby2. I was also considering the SME model 10 but i do not feel this would be a significant upgrade over the Sota hence going to the 20/2 makes more sense. I have also considered the Cosmos but i am really leaning toward the SME tables now. Before the Nova i owned a Star Saphire. I've been a Sota owner for almost 20 years. I have read rave reviews from around the audio world on all 3 SME models 10-20-30. Would appreciate any thoughts or comments anyone may have. Just want to make sure i am going in the right direction. I believe i am.....Sly
smoffatt
jfrech's avatar
jfrech
1,816 posts
 
I own a SME 20/2. I wish I could offer advice on comparions to SOTA's for you. I love my SME 20/2. I've owned for 4 years now. I have 2 friends that both own Walker's. Of course the Walker is better, but I really have a killer system and my friends really love listening to that SME.

I think either table is hard to beat. Good luck !
steelhead
318 posts
 
My used sapphire gave me so much enjoyment that nervosa hit hard and I recently took the plunge and am upgrading to the Cosmos.

The SME looks and must be killer good.

I know that Paul Seydor has had both in his system. Maybe try to contact him through absolute sound or asylum critic forum and maybe he can give you some nuance.

I suspect the SME may edge it out but I know he admires SOTA stuff.

Either way, in my book, you win.

Happy Listening
Ag insider logo xs@2x
rauliruegas
13,101 posts
 
Dear Smoffatt: As Jfrech posted you can't go wrong with either TT.

Now, when you are looking for that quality level is convenient to have a wide TT alternatives.
I can recomended at least two ones: Acoustic Signature and Galibier, take a look. These ones compete with the best out there.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
plinko
256 posts
 
Not to get too sidetracked but...Raul, did you by any chance read the Stereotimes review that trashed the Analog One? http://www.stereotimes.com/turn101501.shtm

They loved the Final Tool (a table I might eventually get) but they disliked the Analog One MKII. Btw, what arms are good with these tables?

I never read them but came across it when I researching the Final Tool table.

Unlike many, I really like the metal look of these tables and yes they seem to be well built as a result of the materials used.
dusty
60 posts
 
A few years ago Charleston Heston addressed the National Rifle Association, he held up a vintage rifle and said "out of my cold dead hands". I feel the same way about my Sota Nova. The SME's don't have a vacuum clamp which is a feature that I think everybody should hear at least once before they dismiss it. If you have the bucks I'd go for the Cosmos (or the Millineum??)
Cheers!
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