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SME 3012 MKII Tonearm Excellent condition 12" SME 3012 Series II tonearm. Includes all parts, original packaging and paperwork including instructions, mounting template, and alignment protractor. I bought this for a project that is no longer taking place and believe the arm has been in storage for some time. I’m not even sure it’s ever been used and would really class it as new condtion. The bearings feel smooth and the arm lift works as it should. Shipping flat rate of $50 at my asking price and will be double boxed. Condition: Excellent Payment Method: PAYPAL OR EFT Region/State: (NI) Nort
At A$2,200, this like-new SME 3012 MKII is ambitiously priced compared to the typical used market, where excellent examples recently sold for around A$1,750 locally and roughly A$1,550 including shipping from Japan. You are paying well above the median for this model, so the price only justifies itself if the listing truly includes original accessories or demonstrates verified, pristine condition that exceeds standard used inventory.
The 3012 Series II remains a legendary 12-inch arm prized for its massive rigidity, low resonance, and ability to unlock the full potential of large-format albums with minimal distortion. Its heavy-gauge tube and precision gimbal deliver a controlled, dynamic sound that still rivals modern designs, making it a timeless upgrade for any serious 12-inch turntable setup. If the seller confirms it includes the original counterweight, clamp, and mounting hardware in truly like-new condition, the rarity and performance upside could eventually make this a solid long-term hold, though at this price point, patience for a closer-to-A$1,600–A$1,750 deal is often the smarter play.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Founded in 1946 by Alastair Robertson-Aikman as The Scale Model Equipment Company Limited in England, SME initially produced scale models and precision parts for engineering trades before pivoting in the 1950s to high-precision components for aircraft instruments and business machines. By 1961, it had relocated to a dedicated factory in Steyning, Sussex, and fully embraced audio engineering, developing its first tonearm for personal use. Now marking over 70 years of excellence, SME was acquired in 2016 by industrialist Ajay Shirke's Cadence Group, ensuring continued innovation while honoring its heritage, including recent moves like reviving the Garrard turntable brand.
SME specializes exclusively in precision turntables and tonearms, offering models like the acclaimed Model 30 series alongside a range of twelve standard arms and custom variants. With over one million tonearms sold worldwide, the company avoids diversification into amplifiers, speakers, DACs, headphones, or cables, focusing instead on unmatched engineering for vinyl playback.
Regarded as the gold standard in high-end analog audio, SME commands a niche position among discerning audiophiles for its Steyning facility—the world's largest and best-equipped for precision pick-up arms and turntables. Synonymous with industry-leading build quality and sonic refinement, it appeals to serious collectors and professionals who prioritize mechanical perfection over mass-market compromises.
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