That is the way AJ Conti of Basis and several other manufactures started; they didn't like what was on the market and thought they could better. SME got into audio because Alistair Robertson-Aikman [probably misspelled] didn't like the arms available and had his machine shop build one.
I think I am going to attempt to make turntatbles
First off let me say I am not new to the audio realm. I am a computer engineer and yes I realize that deals in ones and zeros. However, I have made a few custom guitars. I know a master woodworker and a talented machinist. I have been searching for that perfect table for years whilst living in mediocrity. Well, I have the resources; why not make one from scratch. More than likely I am going to attempt a belt drive unit at first using an off the shelf arm... More than likely an SME. I am working on the power supply circuitry right now as my piece. Any one have any tips... I am thinking solid, large mdf plinth with an attached copper mat and either a heavy plinth with an acoustically decoupled motor or completely detached. Thoughts?