I noticed that my BG6500 with original MMC2 sounded a lot worse than the BG6000 w/MMC20EN. I took a close look and the cantilever exits the cartridge off center, and is angled to one side even in rest. So the suspension's gone...

I'm going to get a SoundSmith replacement, but can't decide which one. Given these wooden ears of mine, I'd probably be quite happy with the SMMC4, but does the -3 offer any marked difference to the better? -2 is probably out of the range I want to invest in this system.

Has anyone tried the rebuild services for the MMC2? schallplattennadel.de offers for 99 euros (as I understand) new suspension, new aluminum cantilever and of course a new stylus. I would end up with the superior looks of the MMC2 but probably not a quite as splendid cartridge. I could even consider SoundSmith's proper rebuild, which is expensive but I suppose would have me an almost-good-as-new MMC2.

Any thoughts? The rebuild would be just for originality and historic purposes, I'll get an SMMC for everyday playing anyway.

I would get an SMMC4 and see what you think against the MMC20EN. I think you will be pleasantly surprised. I have a SMMC20EN which is the best cartridge I have at present. Beats my MMC20CLs and MMC2s.

Hi Mika,

            I own a SMMC4 and it is far superior to my mint B&O MMC3. I cannot comment on the soundsmith MMC3 though but I'm sure it will be a further improvement. I wouldn't bother with having your MMC2 rebuilt though as it sounds like you'll end up with something inferior to the SMMC4, you could simply remove the plastic guard from it and fit it to a soundsmith one though if you want to keep the look of the thing

Chris.