Hi,

My MMC2 pickup is oblique, as you can see in the attached picture. I think I read once on this forum that the MMC2 is no longer in production. So what should I consider for a replacement ?

I am unsure whether or not my current pickup will do any damage to my records, so to be safe I have decided to buy a new pickup - but which one ? Any recommendations ? Which one is the best ?

Best Regards

Vifa

You have two choices:

1. Get your one repaired - Axel repaired one of my MMC2s which had a cantilever snapped off - works perfectly and uses what must be original parts.

2. Get a Soundsmith replacement SMMC2.

The repaired one will sound like an MMC2 - the Soundsmith one will be brighter and sound more dynamic. Some think this is fatiguing, others like it.

Hi,

Thanks, then I think I will consider getteing mine repaired :) Meanwhile, should I avoid using my turntable with this pickup - can the pickup do any damage ?

If it sounds OK, it should be fine though I confess I would not use it on my records.

Vifa:

... can the pickup do any damage ?

counter question: even a perfectly aligned pick up causes record wear ... what will a misaligned one do?

Actually I don't think that is the problem. I would be more worried that the suspension will collapse completely and the guard will then scratch the record.

I would get it repaired by Axel and retain the easy to listen to MMC2 sound.

The soundsmith sound is very good on initial hearing but does get a bit harsh on extended listening. Just my opinion (revised)!