SME Turntables & Tonearms: New Distribution Partner in Germany - Audio Reference

A significant development in the high-end audio market has taken place with a new distribution partnership. Audio Reference, a Hamburg-based specialist, will now handle the distribution of SME, a renowned British manufacturer of tonearms and turntables.

A Legacy of Precision

Origins in Post-War Britain

SME’s history dates back to 1946, when it was founded by Alastair Robertson-Aikman as “The Scale Model Equipment Company.” Initially, the company focused on creating precise models and fine mechanical components, even contributing to the aerospace industry. This foundation in precision engineering would later prove crucial to its success in the audio world.

Did You Know? SME originally manufactured precision models and components for the aviation industry before shifting its focus to audio equipment.

Evolution into Audiophile Excellence

By 1959, SME had developed its first tonearm, signaling a shift towards audiophile music reproduction. The company’s Series II tonearms, particularly the 3009 and 3012 models, gained international recognition in the 1960s for their construction and manufacturing quality.

Key Innovations

SME continued to refine its tonearm technology, culminating in the 1986 introduction of the Series-V tonearm. This design featured high rigidity, precise bearing technology, and a single-piece magnesium arm tube, setting a new standard in the high-end segment. Current VA-Series models build upon these principles, incorporating modern materials like resonance-optimized polymer structures.

Expanding into Turntables

The Model 30 and Beyond

SME expanded into complete turntable production in 1991 with the Model 30, establishing itself in the high-quality turntable market. Subsequent models, including the Model 15A, more compact options, and the current flagship Model 60, followed. These turntables are characterized by a design that combines substantial mass with sophisticated mechanical decoupling.

Expert Insight: SME’s consistent focus on combining mass with mechanical decoupling in their turntable designs suggests a deliberate strategy to minimize unwanted vibrations and maximize sonic clarity.

Strengthening Market Presence

This distribution partnership aims to increase the visibility of SME products within the German specialist retail market. Audio Reference’s CEO, Mansour Mamaghani, emphasized that SME represents reference-level analog playback, uncompromising manufacturing, and a dedication to sound quality – values that align with Audio Reference’s own philosophy.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was SME founded?

SME was founded in 1946 by Alastair Robertson-Aikman as “The Scale Model Equipment Company.”

What is a key feature of SME’s turntable designs?

SME turntables combine high mass with sophisticated mechanical decoupling.

Who is the new distributor for SME in Germany?

Audio Reference, a Hamburg-based high-end specialist, is the new distributor for SME in Germany.

How might this partnership influence the availability and accessibility of SME products for audiophiles in Germany?

SME Turntables & Tonearms: New Distribution Partner in Germany – Audio Reference