Thanks chaps, I appreciate the good wishes.

BBV, I am not going to get into a peeing contest with you. I am absolutely delighted with the SME, and don't have the time nor inclination to investigate any others. I am content with this situation, because demoing turntables in any meaningful way is frankly too much effort for me.

Unpacking & setting up the turntable & arm took me about five hours. Running-in the main bearing will take a month. It has already exceeded my expectations. Think about it.