$6-7k to Spend on Turntable

If you ARE looking for an SME 20, I just noticed an SME 20/2 for sale today for $7,950 with an SME IV.vi arm (which you could easily sell for over $1000 thus getting this in your price range). I am an SME 30 owner but have no idea what an SME 20 sounds like, particularly compared to the highly regarded Teres - I just thought I'd bring your attention to this ad. I actually think I have sold some amps to this guy.

Good luck in your hunt.

Teres 255 cocobolo and Schroeder Model 2 arm. That's what I would get.

Dear Larry: +++++ " heard favorable comments about the Teres over the SME 20 (but I can't provide and detail or corroboration). " +++++

With my respect to you, this " rumor " is an irresponsible one that does not help to Teres or anyone and do harm to any including SME.

I have respect for every audio item manufacturer ( including Teres or ZYX. The problem that these does not be my " cup of tea " does not means that I don't respect them for what they do. ) but especially to SME: the skillfull, know-how, technology, quality building, honest designs, etc... are unsurpassed or evenn for any one in the audio industry.
I know that some people like other manufacturer products over the SME ones and that is ok. But when some one post something like you do it is better to have " the hairs in hand " before do that and you don't have it.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.

.
Raul,
.
I was simply stating that I could not remember who had told me that they preferred the Teres over the SME 20. I was open and not castigating the SME 20 which I have never heard.
.
When I hear something in my own system, I make that known in my postings.
.
Me saying that a few people had told me that they preferred a Teres table over and SME 20 is true and that's that. The fact that you have a problem with that is your problem.
.
If I had not disclosed up front that I was sharing someone else's opinion and stated that the Teres is superior to the SME 20, that would be unethical and dishonest. But, that is not what I did.
.
Please do not respond to me further. I have no interest in getting into another one of your b.s. arguements that go no where.
.

Well gang, I pulled the trigger today. I purchased an SME 20/2 from a fellow audiogon member this evening.

I have done more reading on turntables the last couple of days than I have in years. Most of it spurred by your suggestions. I know many of you had recommended the Teres decks. I did send Chris Brady an email to which he replied. These are probably excellent decks just as many of you have said. However, I can't get one locally, and I am not inclined to wait a long period for one to be produced for me.

Much of the information you provided I used to wade through the decks available on Audiogon. This afternoon an SME 20/2 showed up, which fit my requirements. I can also pick up the deck locally. As I have hinted, I'm not much of an equipment junkie, but buying used does allow me the option of selling later without taking a bath if for some reason the sound isn't what I was expecting. However, given my experience with my SME IV tonearm. I doubt I will be disappointed.

In then end, there was no way I could follow everyone's suggestions, but I valued all your input and appreciate your insights.

Thanks again for the help!

Ken