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SME 3012HE Series II Tonearm A well regarded tone arm needing little intro. I purchased from a tech who had it for some time. Alas my turn to let it go, have other projects to see too. This presents as new and very unlikely to have ever seen a deck. All literature cable and hardware as in the images included along with insured express post within Australia. OS and NZ possible also at agreed cost. Condition: NOS NIB Payment Method: EFT, Cash Region/State: (VIC) Victoria/Australia By Artnet 0 Comments AUD $2,350 Date: June 3, 20241 yr
At A$2,350, this SME 3012HE Series II listing is ambitious, sitting well above the typical used market range of roughly A$1,100 to A$1,600 for a standard Series II in good condition. While a serviced, like-new example with original accessories can command higher prices, comparable listings on Audiogon and eBay often land between $770 and $850 USD (approx. A$1,200–A$1,350), and even the premium 3012-R with box in Australia recently listed near A$3,200 but is a distinct variant. The HE version is prized for its heavier headshell and improved tracking, but the asking price exceeds the 75th percentile unless it includes a high-end cartridge or exceptional documentation.
The 3012HE remains a legendary tonearm, widely regarded for its knife-edge bearings, static balance, and ability to pair beautifully with vintage Thorens or Linn systems. Its heavier headshell offers superior momentum for dynamic cartridges, and the Series II iteration is preferred over the Mk1 and R for its refined damping and reliability. If this unit is truly like-new, includes the original box, manual, and counterweight, and has been professionally serviced, it could justify a premium—but at A$2,350, it’s a cautious buy unless those extras are confirmed. For most buyers, waiting for a cleaner-priced Series II around A$1,400 would be 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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