Responding to doc_c55, I too note some issues with the SME arms, but would not characterize them as "lifeless" per se - colored, but not lifeless. I heartily agree with the frustration of adjusting azimuth - you basically need to create shims to add to the cartridge screws, or otherwise mess around with how the tonearm is mounted in the base. VTA is also a pain, but you can work through it with patience.
I don't agree there are clearly "better" turntables for less money, particularly at their used prices - perhaps there are tables different in presentation that may suit an individual's tastes more (particularly certain direct drive tables as I note above), but I would put an SME 20 or 30 at its respective used price against anything on Audiogon right now.
I don't agree there are clearly "better" turntables for less money, particularly at their used prices - perhaps there are tables different in presentation that may suit an individual's tastes more (particularly certain direct drive tables as I note above), but I would put an SME 20 or 30 at its respective used price against anything on Audiogon right now.