Once set up, the SME Model 6 was easy and enjoyable to use, and it performed well consistently.

When Vernell Fournier lands hard on the drums to end the opener—Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “We Kiss in a Shadow”—it should be a well-controlled dynamic surprise, and the SME 6 delivered the goods (and how!) through the Wilson XVX (reviewed in this issue). Israel Crosby’s bass lines were taut, well controlled, and nimbly reproduced, whether he was subtly or insistently plucking.

The Model 6 delivered sonic satisfaction. This ‘table has been carefully and thoughtfully tuned to produce control but not a thick, overdamped personality.

The ‘table is competent for sure, but I think what most sells the musical goods is the M2-9 arm. Tonearms are SME’s core competency.

There’s some stiff competition at the $9000 price tier, but if you’re looking for a turntable at this price and want the full range of cartridge setup flexibility, you should check out the Model 6 before buying anything else.

SME’s latest entry is a thorough turntable reboot for the company and a complete success. The more I used it, the more I enjoyed its open, airy sound and its solid bottom end.

Michael Fremer, Stereophile, June 2021

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