Difference between SME20/2 and SME30/2

Oxborne,

While I don't have the 30, I do have the 20/2. There is a way to approximate the performance of the 30 with the 20, which is by using the the clearaudio outer stabilizer ring.

This adds those characteristics which most people seem to attribute to the 30 versus the 20 -- blacker background, tighter, deeper bass, more solid images, and a greater sense of ease. It's a bitch to center since it's not cut for the SME 20 platter, but I wouldn't listen to my 20 without the outer ring.

I have, by the way, heard the 30 on many occasions, and agree that it's one of the last tables you'll ever purchase.

Cheers,

TRH

I'm awaiting delivery of a SME 30/2 SME V and Dynavector XV-1S. The wait, as you could imagine, is killing me.

Chris,

I hear you. Had the vinyl rig in storage for several months as I moved into a new home. Congratulations on the acquisitions. That's a mighty fine rig. What biscuit do you plan on spinning first (after the HFNRR disc)?

Tom

Tom,
that's a tough question. It'll probably be one of those listening sessions where you put on a favorite song on many, many different albums instead of listening all the way thru one.