SME 30/2 Controller

I recall there being a specific Model 30/2 service bulletin for filling the suspension towers that you may request. Viscosity (CST) & amount (ML) of damping fluid are provided. Prefilled syringes are available from SME as well. The Model 30 variants do not use a dashpot as their fluid is in the base of each suspension tower. 
 

Regarding the motor controllers, with the exception of the new AC Motor Model 6, all of the controllers are interchangeable. The original rotary style controllers feature a linear power supply whereas a Switched Mode Supply is what is now being supplied.

I understand the factory is operating in COVID mode with limited staff. I believe contacting them through their website is best:

https://sme.co.uk/contact/

Hope this helps.

I’ve run many Koetsu models on the 9” Magnesium SME tonearms with no issues or spacers required, although the heavier stone bodies prefer the heavier counterweight instead of the lighter original hanging way out away from the pivot. If a headshell spacer is required then its likely to be a case of the cueing cylinder not being set low enough at its lowered position. If the fluid damper is available (Series IV.Vi & Series V), some cases call for just a delicate “dip of the toe” of the paddle tip into the fluid for solidifying the image without over damping.

Dynavector, is also an excellent choice, especially when going above their first two models.

 I tend to agree with your turntable suspension damping thought about increasing the gap provides less suspension damping.

Fluid damper of the tonearms is of course different from the turntable suspension dashpots.

Reading the 30/2 manual makes it obvious that the turntable’s dashpot damping increases rigidity. Less damping by their “up to 2mm” recommendation will make the upper subchassis less rigid, providing for an increase in isolation for severe situations.

More critical thinking reveals that damping does not equate to isolation here.