SME Series M2-12R Tonearm
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SME M2-12R Tonearm
The Model M2-12R precision tonearm is an extension of our popular Series M2 range offering optimum cartridge choice with minimal tracking error and harmonic distortion associated with a 12 inch tonearm.
Classic looks and meticulous build quality the M2-12R offers all the most important features of traditional ‘J’ shaped tonearm, detachable aluminium headshell with azimuth adjustment, two stage tungsten counterbalance system, height adjustment by thumb wheel, superb quality ball race bearings and a level of rigidity to suit all types of cartridge.
The 12in construction with thin walled stainless steel tone-arm takes advantage of the reduction in maximum tracking error/distortion afforded by the greater arm length when compared with 9in models. S2-R Aluminum shell detachable and interchangeable without disturbing cartridge or wiring.
Double draw-in pin bayonet fitting design ensures a rigid junction with the tone-arm.
Unique headshell to tone-arm coupling readily allows cartridge azimuth adjustment.
Stainless steel cross shaft, ground and thread ground. Carried in a substantial yoke on 10mm precision ball races.
Stainless steel vertical shaft, ground and thread ground, with integral 16mm diameter flange to couple shaft and yoke.
23mm diameter steel pillar, heat treated, ground and honed, carries two 17mm precision ball races, widely spaced to resist tilt.
Internal wiring in silver litz.
Anti-skate control operates through Anti-Skate weight and filament, adjustable up to 5g VTF.
Lowering/raising control gives smooth positive action. Height of lift can be adjusted.
Thumbwheel (Vertical tracking angle VTA) height adjustment.
Bedplate affords +/- 12.0mm movement to facilitate (Horizontal tracking angle HTA) adjustment.
Base slides on bedplate for horizontal tracking adjustment with double null-point protractor.
Tungsten-alloy balance weight inserts allow maximum centre of gravity shift to balance a greater range of cartridges up to 38g in S2-R headshell and direct plug-in heads up to 46g.
Precise vertical tracking force up to 5g applied in 0,5g increments via rider weight and graduated wayrod.

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Click here to view the SME M2-12R Tonearm page on the SME website
The latest SME product, Series M2 tonearms available in 9″ and 12″ in a straight or s-shape design.
“These precision pick-up arms embody well tried SME
principles and are suited to a broad range of cartridges
including those of medium and low compliance.
Series M2-9 is the standard arm having a pivot-stylus
dimension of 233.2mm (9.18˝) and will therefore be
the one most frequently used. Typical effective mass
9.5 grams.
Series M2-10 is identical except that the pivot-stylus
dimension is 239.3mm (9.42˝) a difference that suits
the layout of some decks. Typical effective mass
9.6 grams.
Series M2-12 has a pivot-stylus dimension of
308.8mm (12.16˝). Distortion caused by lateral
tracking error is at least 25% less than possible
with a nine inch arm. However effective mass will
be typically 12.0grams. Also, a turntable designed
for 12-inch arms must be selected.
The internally damped tonearm of highly polished
stainless steel provides sparkling uncoloured
reproduction.
A unique single element balance system caters for
cartridges weighing 5 to 12 grams. After balancing
tracking force is applied by forward movement of
the weight ensuring the lowest system inertia.
The weight moves on a precision screw thread with
backlash eliminator allowing exact setting of vertical
tracking force.
The M2 shell is pressure die-cast in magnesium
for lightness and rigidity. A collet of ingenious design
affords ‘one-piece’ rigidity and allows azimuth
correction to be made before final tightening.”
Dimensions M2-9 M2-12
mm ins mm ins
Nominal length,
pivot stylus (A) 233.20 9.18 308.80 12.16
Distance from bedplate centre
to turntable centre (B) 215.40 8.48 295.60 11.64
Cartridge fixing centres (C) 12.70 0.50 12.70 0.50
Offset angle (D) 23.63º 17.62º
Linear Offset (E) 93.47 3.68 93.47 3.68
Overhang (F) 17.80 0.70 13.21 0.52
Height above mounting
surface (G) max. 87.00 3.43 87.00 3.43
min. 63.00 2.48 63.00 2.48
Note: When the turntable surface is more than 41.30mm
(1.625”) above the surface on which the arm is mounted a
P1 spacer, SME Part No. 3823/IV, is required.
Mounting surface to underside
of headshell (H) max. 67.40 2.65 67.40 2.65
min. 43.40 1.71 43.40 1.71
Depth below mounting
surface (J) 46.00 1.81 46.00 1.81
Balance weight radial
clearance (K) 51.00 2.00 51.00 2.00
Tracking adjustment ± 12.70 0.50 12.70 0.50
M2-10
Nominal length,
Pivot to stylus (A) 239.30 9.42
Distance from bedplate centre
to turntable centre (B) 222.00 8.74
Offset angle (D) 23.23º
Overhang (F) 17.30 0.68
All other dimensions are as M2-9.
The Model 6 Classic is complimented with the M2-9R tonearm with extensive features including thumbwheel vertical tracking adjustment, tungsten balance weights, double draw-pin detachable headshell with azimuth adjustment. The tungsten alloy balance weight allows for a maximum centre of gravity shift to balance a greater range of cartridges up to 38 grams and with a direct plug-in head up to 46 grams.
Design and engineering excellence built by audio enthusiasts for audio enthusiasts.
New magnesium tonearm from SME, the M2 Series. Available in 9″ and 12″, as well as in a straight or s-shape version. See the product listing for further
Mon to Sat, 10:00am to 17:30pm