No, that kind of shaking is not normal. There is a balancing mechanism that is not working for some reason. Front loaders usually start the spin, coast down some, and then go for the top rpms. We have an LG front loader that says it spins at 1500 rpm and there is very little vibration from it.
Top loaders also have the counter-balance mechanism to compensate for unequal loading of the tub; a front loader is always unequally loaded so it takes a more sofisticated balance.
I would take the back off and look for some metal weights that can be moved around; and, if they don't move freely, I would put a drop of oil on any part that looks like it moves against something else working it in as I go. Then, fire it up and try again. Please post back and let us know how it goes.
Glenn