Garrard Turntables Arrive in North America
British audio company SME Limited has officially selected Rhythm Distribution as its executive distributor for Garrard turntables, helping to broaden the presence of the brand in the North American market.
Craig Hoffman, Managing Director of Rhythm Distribution, told StereoNET:
Being entrusted as the exclusive distributor for Garrard in North America by a distinguished company like SME Limited is a testament to our commitment to excellence. We are thrilled to bring this brand's new turntables, with the legendary Garrard 301 transcription motors, to discerning audiophiles who appreciate the finest analog reproduction.
Founded in 1946 under the name "The Scale Model Equipment Company" to manufacture scale parts and models, the company pivoted to engineering subcontracting in 1950 only to change the company's name to SME Limited and move to producing pick up arms in 1959 before releasing the brand's very first turntable, the SME Model 30, in 1991.
In 2019, SME Limited announced that the company would be leaving the tonearm business to commit to the growth of its turntable business. However, the company continues to produce its highly accredited tonearms for SME Limited's high-end turntables.
SME Limited first acquired Garrard in 2018, alongside Loricraft Audio, the only company authorised to offer support and servicing for Garrard products, allowing SME Limited to offer the same level of support for owners of products like the gorgeous Garrard Model 301 Transcription Motor Turntable while also offering Loricraft's exceptional record cleaners.
Rhythm Distribution was recently launched in early November 2023, helmed by Craig Hoffman and Randy Bingham, and the company looks poised to make an impact in the North American high-end audio scene with both SME Limited and Goldmund distributorship deals already inked.
Stuart McNeilis, CEO of SME Limited, told StereoNET:
We believe Rhythm Distribution shares our passion for delivering exceptional audio experiences. Their expertise, strong network, and brand-centred approach makes them the ideal partner to represent Garrard in North America. We look forward to a successful partnership that brings the timeless quality of Garrard to a new generation of audio enthusiasts.
For more information visit Garrard
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Cheryl Tan
After diving down the custom IEMs rabbit hole since she was 18, Cheryl has embarked on a long journey trying out as many audio products as possible ever since. She’s still waiting for the day a company can create a pair of true wireless earbuds that sound just as good as wired earphones.
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