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SME IV Tonearm The Series IV precision pick-up arm owes much to the technology developed for the acclaimed Series V. Although presented at a lower price it retains the unique one-piece magnesium tone-arm, dual-lock base and other advanced features listed. The Series IV is a worthy relative of 'the best pick-up arm in the world' with a sonic performance reflecting the care and attention to detail underlying its design and manufacture. This magnesium tonearm is absolutely spectacular when matched with the right turntable. I have a Michell Gyrodec and are looking at changing to a Funk FX-3. *Un
This listing sits at a fair asking price rather than a clear bargain. A used SME IV tonearm typically trades in the mid‑to‑high A$2,000s on the secondary market, so AUD 2,750 is comfortably within that range and not obviously below the 25th percentile. If the arm is complete, properly serviced, and in genuinely good condition, the price is reasonable rather than aggressive, especially given the brand’s reputation and the fact that many buyers still seek out these arms for their build quality and performance.
The SME IV is a well‑regarded, one‑piece magnesium arm with a solid track record of precise tracking and low resonance, making it a strong match for mid‑ to high‑tier turntables. For a buyer who values proven design, rigidity, and refinement over the latest boutique hardware, this is a worthwhile upgrade path. The main thing to verify is whether it’s been recently aligned and serviced, and whether counterweights, leads, and dust cover adaptors are included, since those can add real value at this price point.
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.
See all SME listings on RADAR.
