SME Model 60 One of One: An iconic creation.

The SME Model 60 One of One is more than just a turntable; it is the ultimate realization of technological and engineering mastery, embodying not only perfection but also a commitment to personalization, high performance, and aesthetic superiority.

A visit to the British SME website, and more specifically reading the page dedicated to the Model 60 One of One turntable, is enough to begin realizing that this is a unique and thrilling journey into a world that many rightfully call Hi End... or perhaps even more than Hi End... While the presentation of the Model 60 One of One is minimalist, as the page for the SME model progresses, there are numerous quotations offering conclusions, opinions, distinctions, and assessments about what every lucky owner of such a unique masterpiece of engineering excellence and musical perfection can expect to enjoy.

So, let's see what it's all about!

First of all, let's take a brief look at the technological innovations that stand out, starting with the platter. It is made from an acoustically optimized high-density aluminum alloy, providing exceptional resistance to vibrations. The hydraulic damping ensures smooth rotation with minimal mechanical noise, even at the most demanding frequencies.

Next is the Series VA tonearm, an upgrade of the world-renowned Series V. Made from a high-density composite polymer, it reduces resonance by 30% compared to its predecessor, providing precise stylus placement on the record, resulting in playback with minimal distortion and acoustic neutrality, allowing the natural characteristics of the record to shine through.

Moving on to the drive system and speed control. The Model 60 features a high-precision AC motor, isolated from the rest of the chassis by special rubber dampers. The independent power supply ensures a clean energy source, eliminating any form of interference. The rotation speeds (33 1/3, 45 RPM) are digitally controlled for absolute precision.

Finally, the multi-point isolation system. The turntable’s feet are equipped with a multi-point isolation system, which absorbs vibrations from external factors (e.g., speakers, environmental vibrations, etc.). This feature preserves the purity of the sound, even at high volume levels.

Sound Performance: Perfection Without Compromise

Frequency Reproduction

The precision of the system allows for the reproduction of every detail of the vinyl, from the lowest to the highest frequencies. Tests reveal a frequency response from 20 Hz to 50 kHz, a dynamic range exceeding 90 dB, and absolute pitch stability, making it ideal for demanding pieces such as classical music and jazz.

Sound Realism

Listeners describe the experience of the Model 60 as resembling a "live" performance. The soundstage is perfectly three-dimensional, with exceptional separation between instruments. Details such as the breath of a singer or the touch of the stylus on a string are brought out without overshadowing the overall presentation.

Why the Model 60 One of One Surpasses the Competition

• Technical Excellence: Its technical features make it the ultimate choice for any listener.

• Personalization: The unique finish and color selection offer a personal touch that no other turntable provides.

• SME Reliability: With over 75 years of experience, SME guarantees superior craftsmanship and sound quality.

The SME Model 60 One of One is the "holy grail" for every vinyl enthusiast. It combines precision, technological innovation, and artistic expression, creating an listening experience that is both unique and breathtaking.

NOTE: Because everything has its significance, SME decided to strictly limit the number of SME Model 60 One of One units to exactly 75. These 75 unique masterpieces were created to celebrate 75 years of SME’s excellence, craftsmanship, and perfection in the field of audio engineering.

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“The SME Model 60 is your LP zenith, a sign of you reaching the vinyl summit. The SME Model 60 One of One turntable is the ultimate seal of that ‘forever home’ deal.”

Alan Sircom, Hi-Fi+, US, 07/2024

“If you are after Rolls-Royce-level quality in a vinyl setup, the Model 60 with the Series VA tonearm is the finest option available today.”

Audio Art, TW, 2024

Stereophile Product of the Year Award & Editor’s Choice Award! Stereophile, US, 2023

“The Model 60 should be considered the new real-world reference against which other turntables can be judged. By 'real world' I mean that, while it may cost as much as a nice car, the Model 60 doesn’t cost as much as a nice house, like some of its competitors do.”

Michael Trei, Stereophile, US, 08/2023

“This turntable is almost impossible to beat in terms of effort and precision. It noticeably displaces our references.”

Matthias Böde, Stereo, DE, 06/2023

“The SME Model 60 is without doubt one of the finest turntables money can buy.”

What Hi-Fi?, UK, 06/2022

“It is no overstatement to rank the Model 60 turntable with its Series VA tonearm as the new standard by which all high-end turntables should be judged.”

Outstanding Product Award! Adam Smith, Paul Miller, Hi-Fi News, UK, 07/2022

“Hearing the SME Model 60 in full flow is an extraordinary experience and a vinyl-lover’s perfect dream.”

Recommended Award! Adam Smith, Paul Miller, Hi-Fi Choice, UK, 08/2022

“Sonically, the SME Model 60 sets a new standard – not just for SME, but for vinyl replay in general. In short, I have heard no better way of playing vinyl records.”

Recommended Reference Component Award! Jonathan Gorse, Soundstage! Hi-Fi, US, 12/2022

“The new SME Model 60 with Series VA arm is an overwhelmingly successful upgrade to what was formerly the company’s flagship Model 30. It achieves new SME greatness without forsaking the vision of founder Alastair Robertson-Aikman, who would surely appreciate both this new turntable/arm combo and where his company is headed.”

Michael Fremer, The Absolute Sound, US, 12/2022

Soundstage Product of the Year - Outstanding Performance Award!

Soundstage! Network, US, 2022

AthensProAudio Team ©