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To SME or not to SME?

...that is the question. I have an irrationally strong urge to sell my Orbe SE, a very nice 'table in it's own right and order a SME 20/3. I've posted an ad for a used 30/2 but haven't received any responses. I have a new SME V to mount on the table. Could the SME be a last 'table purchase, or will the urge strike again a couple of years down the road if not sooner? Thoughts, opinions from members with ownership or listening experiences with the Orbe SE or any of the SME tables would be greatly appreciated.
mikesmith
sksos1
387 posts
 
Mauidj ~ I had the 20 for at least 5 weeks and during that time didn't want to listen to mt system because it had no "life" no "engaement" no PRAT with the SME 20 in it. I could list all the equipment but let's just say there was over 200K of gear that hadn't been changed except for the TT. Myself I'd NEVER consider an SME, at least the 20 becasue of my own experience yours and others may differ.
mauidj
127 posts
 
Sksos1...thanks for the info.
I was just interested in the cartridge more than anything.
Can I ask what front end you do use and what have you heard that floats your boat.
Dover...I'm "fluffing around" because spending close to 20k on a front end is not something I do every day so excuse me while I get all the info and feedback that I can.
sksos1
387 posts
 
I’m currently using a direct drive which has great rhythm and pace but lacks inner detail, still searching myself for the golden grail. I’ve used in the past which was much better than the SME, a Basis Debut Sig, a SYD S7 and S10 (although I now prefer the direct drive approach) and some of Dr. Feickert tables have floated my boat. I do listen to 90% analog and have over 12,000 albums!
mauidj
127 posts
 
Sksos1...many mahalos.
I guess in the end one has to buy, try and if necessary sell on and try again.
I've spent the last 3 weeks quizzing Audiogoners and others but as Dover stated I'm still fluffing around and changing my mind every other day.
Time to commit to something and see what happens.
That darned golden grail ;-)
dover
2,199 posts
 
Mauidj,

Any of the turntables you have looked at will be good. If you are nervous about the $20k, then spend less. What about second hand. For $10k you could get a second hand Micro Seiki RX1500 and a new Graham Phantom. Keep your Oracle as a benchmark. If you dont like the sound you can offload the Micro without losing much money if any. Put your original cartridge on the new deck then once you get a feel for the sound make a decision on cartridge. This is the least risk approach.
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