SME MODEL 15A

Supplied with SME 309 tonearm

The Model 15 precision turntable is built to SME’s uncompromising engineering standards, designed to reveal the finest nuances in any musical recording. In this Model 15A configuration, the tonearm is internally wired with Van Den Hul cables, ensuring signal integrity of the highest order.

The SME Model 15 was conceived with the goal of delivering a definitive listening experience—one capable of extracting even the most subtle information engraved in a vinyl record, whether from analog or digital sources. A direct evolution of the acclaimed Model 10, the Model 15 takes inspiration in performance from SME’s flagship models 20/3 and 30/2, while maintaining a more compact footprint—ideal for those seeking absolute performance in a more space-efficient design.

Its understated aesthetic and rigorous build quality are matched by an engineering approach focused on ease of use and long-term reliability. As with every SME creation, nothing is left to chance: every detail is meticulously studied to maximize sonic performance while minimizing vibrations, resonance, and unwanted distortion.

At the heart of the Model 15 lies a 19 mm main spindle, precision-machined from high-chrome tool steel, ground and super-finished to exacting tolerances. It is supported by a sealed housing containing individually selected sintered bronze bearings, ensuring smooth, precise rotation and exceptional durability.

The sub-chassis is suspended via 30 purpose-moulded ‘O’ rings, which—together with the over 4.6 kg aluminium alloy platter—result in a total suspended mass of over 11 kg. This high-mass construction is key to eliminating coloration and achieving tonal neutrality. A central fluid damping system further controls sub-chassis movement, eliminating overshoot and ensuring accurate mechanical recovery with nearly zero resonance.

The platter itself, machined from a solid aluminium alloy block, features a diamond-turned micro-scroll finish on its top surface. This unique texture creates a microscopic grip with the underside of the record, firmly coupling the two surfaces. A robust reflex clamp is included, ensuring maximum contact even when playing slightly warped records.

The motor is a sophisticated 3-phase brushless outrunner design with Neodymium magnets and three integrated Hall sensors. With a mass of 2.5 kg and urethane isolation mounts, it offers nearly vibration-free operation and maintains optimal belt tension through precise adjustability.

Electronic speed control is managed by a high-performance microprocessor using a closed-loop proportional-integral (PI) algorithm, ensuring rotational accuracy. Fine pitch speed adjustments are available in ±0.01% increments, and the user can select between 33.3, 45, and 78 rpm.

Technical Specifications:

• Tonearm: SME Model 309 with Van Den Hul internal wiring (Model 15A)
• Suspension: Sub-chassis suspended on 30 custom-moulded elastomer rings
• Damping: Central fluid damping system for controlled chassis movement
• Platter: Aluminium alloy, weighs over 4.6 kg, diamond-turned micro-scroll finish
• Main Spindle: 19 mm high-chrome tool steel, supported by sintered bronze bearings
• Motor: 3-phase brushless outrunner with Neodymium magnets and Hall sensors, 2.5 kg, mounted on adjustable urethane isolators
• Speed Control: Electronic microprocessor with PI algorithm, ±0.01% adjustment, speeds: 33.3, 45, 78 rpm
• Power Supply: Available for 90–110V, 105–125V, and 220–240V 50/60 Hz (specify when ordering)
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 428 × 378 × 176 mm
• Net Weight: 18.5 kg