The MK2 Model 12 is designed and precision engineered for pure audio reproduction. The all new highly advanced drive system provides much improved speed control, accuracy and stability. This best-selling and very capable precision turntable has evolved to deliver the perfect listening experience.
Crafted from the finest materials with all parts precision made in-house at SME to the strictest tolerances contributing to an outstanding musical performance.
The stylish and exciting Model 12 turntable comes complete with the highly acclaimed SME 309 tonearm and internal Crystal Cable wiring as standard. Available in three paint finishes of traditional SME Black, Dark Grey and Dark Blue with contrast detailing.
Tonearm choice can be upgraded to the superior SME Series IV or V.
PRIMARY FEATURES
- Natural, Open and Dynamic Sound
- High Mass and Small Footprint
- Close Tolerance Precision Bearing
- Isolated Suspension
- Precision Magnesium Tonearm
- Highly Advanced New Drive System
- Independent Mains Transformer
- LEMO Low Power Cables
- RCA Chassis Connectors
- Crystal Cable Internal Wiring
- Based on the award-winning Synergy
- Three Colour Options
"The Model 12 MK2 is a gloriously secure and solid-sounding deck with a bass warmth that underpins a deeply insightful performance."
Read Full Review
"This turntable offers soundstages that are fantastically well organized, dynamically concentrated while at the same time presented with the nonchalance of an expert." Reference class!
Read Full Review
Additional Information
Specification
The MK2 Model 12 is a precision turntable of high mass made to exacting engineering standards for high performance. The chassis and sub-chassis are CNC machined from premium grade aluminium billet. The sub-chassis is suspended on an advanced isolation system for primary resonance control and houses the main bearing, platter and tonearm. Four fully adjustable feet are mechanically de-coupled from the main chassis by isolators providing base resonance control.
The main spindle is 19mm precision machined from high chrome tool steel, ground, super finished and supported in a sealed housing with individually fitted sintered bronze bearings of generous proportions needed for precise bearing and platter rotation.
The platter is machined from aluminium alloy and weighs over 4.6kg. Extensionally dampened with the top surface iso-damp, diamond-turned with a fine scroll for acoustic performance. This method of finishing upsets a myriad of tiny fibres which interface with the underside of the vinyl record. A substantial record clamp operating on the reflex principle ensures the largest possible platter contact even when appreciable record warp is present.
The motor conforms to the highest standards of silent running and the turntable is driven by a custom made bi-phase AC synchronous motor controlled by a highly advanced speed control unit providing precise speed accuracy and stability.
The MK2 Model 12 comes equipped with an SME Model 309 tonearm and internal wiring by Crystal Cable as standard. Tonearm choice can be upgrade to the superior Series IV or V.
Speed Control Unit
The Speed Control Unit uses a dedicated DSP engine to generate two independent pure mathematical sine waves which provide total control of frequency, phase relationship and amplitude. These in turn are matched (tuned) to the motor for accuracy to obtain the best possible performance.
The speed range is 33.33 and 45rpm with independent memory settings via a switched encoder. Fine pitch speed increments/decrements of +/-0.01% of the selected speed are made by a rotary control on the Speed Control Unit fascia. The SCU case is CNC machined from billet aluminium. A separate mains Power Unit keeps the transformer away from the SCU and importantly separated from the turntable audio signal cables.
Tonearm Options
Crystal Cable Wiring
The Model 12 is equipped with a premium grade signal cable from Crystal Cable which is installed inside the tonearm. Pure mono-crystal silver conductors in miniature format. Providing precious metal in its most pure version, lifting the musical performance to a higher level.
Weights & Dimensions
Turntable
Width: 370mm
Depth: 350mm
Height (top of tonearm): 178mm
Platter Diameter: 304mm
Spindle to Arm 215.35mm
Speed Control Unit
Width: 170mm
Depth: 305mm
Height: 68mm
Power Unit
Width: 190mm
Depth: 243mm
Height: 83mm
Platter: 305mm
Weight
Turntable: 21.26kg
Power Unit: 4.04kg
Speed Control Unit: 2.88kg
Shipping Weight: 33kg