SME Leaves the Tonearm Business

The surprise news that SME is leaving the tonearm and OEM business will no doubt shock audio fans across the world.

SME has designed, engineered and manufactured tonearms for retail and OEM sales since 1959 and achieved international recognition as makers of the best pick-up arms in the world.

Stuart McNeilis, CEO of SME Limited, stated in a press release on the company's site:

The decision to leave the tonearm business was not taken lightly, especially as we have played a key role in the design and development of the world’s best tonearms.

The company states that this decision is based on the growth of its turntable business and commitment to higher production levels.

Naturally, SME will continue manufacturing its highly accredited tonearms, but they will only be sold with its comprehensive range of high-end turntables, which the company plans to expand in 2020.

SME will no longer accept new orders for individual tonearms from today. However, all obligations of the warranty will be honoured. Factory service and spare parts support for tonearm owners will continue.