2. analog
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To SME or not to SME?

...that is the question. I have an irrationally strong urge to sell my Orbe SE, a very nice 'table in it's own right and order a SME 20/3. I've posted an ad for a used 30/2 but haven't received any responses. I have a new SME V to mount on the table. Could the SME be a last 'table purchase, or will the urge strike again a couple of years down the road if not sooner? Thoughts, opinions from members with ownership or listening experiences with the Orbe SE or any of the SME tables would be greatly appreciated.
mikesmith
sksos1
395 posts
 
I’m currently using a direct drive which has great rhythm and pace but lacks inner detail, still searching myself for the golden grail. I’ve used in the past which was much better than the SME, a Basis Debut Sig, a SYD S7 and S10 (although I now prefer the direct drive approach) and some of Dr. Feickert tables have floated my boat. I do listen to 90% analog and have over 12,000 albums!
mauidj
127 posts
 
Sksos1...many mahalos.
I guess in the end one has to buy, try and if necessary sell on and try again.
I've spent the last 3 weeks quizzing Audiogoners and others but as Dover stated I'm still fluffing around and changing my mind every other day.
Time to commit to something and see what happens.
That darned golden grail ;-)
dover
2,299 posts
 
Mauidj,

Any of the turntables you have looked at will be good. If you are nervous about the $20k, then spend less. What about second hand. For $10k you could get a second hand Micro Seiki RX1500 and a new Graham Phantom. Keep your Oracle as a benchmark. If you dont like the sound you can offload the Micro without losing much money if any. Put your original cartridge on the new deck then once you get a feel for the sound make a decision on cartridge. This is the least risk approach.
mauidj
127 posts
 
Dover,
I'm not nervous about the money just being careful and taking in all the data I can. Kinda excited actually as this is not something I do very often!
I agree that any of the TT options will be good ..in fact...great. I am just looking to fine tune the decision as much as possible and also deciding what "sound" is most important to me and the rest of my system.
If I am so unhappy with my choice and have to try again...well no biggie. Fortunately the prices I have been quoted are such that I should be able to move it without a loss.
rgurney
279 posts
 
Sksos1 - I beg to differ. I've owned both the Basis Debut Signature Vacuum and the SY7. Sold them. (I've heard the S10 and don't think it is a significant improvement over the S7). Neither measures up to the SME 30/12 with V12 arm - what I own now. Plenty of PRAT and inner detail.
I'll go count up my albums now.......let's just say, quite a few.
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