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A new needle for B&O RX2 turntable or get a new TT

My local hifi store says the MMC5 needle(least expensive needle for the Bang&Olufsen)only has "a couple hours left on it", and suggests that I could get a new, better needle for it, but that I would do better by getting rid of the Rx2 altogether and getting another TT. But,the needle dealer says the Rx2 is worth putting a $900 needle on it (MMC1, the best). I am thinking of the MMC2 ($350) or the MMC3 ($230) needles. QUESTION...can I spend that kind of money and have something that sounds great? Or, is it wasted money? I like the auto cue and return on the RX2 and a new needle is still cheaper than a new/used TT/needle. Any one happy with the sound of their RX2 (with MMC2 or MMC3) compared to other TT options? SYSTEM: I have System Audio SA2k monitor speakers (completely awesome after auditioning for 1 year, My buddy and I each picked them after two days of blinded rotation/listening vs Thiel 2.3 vs Sonus Faber Grand Pianos thru Rotel seperates), Rotel 200wpc, Sunfire Sym Ref Preamp. Cost/value is very important. Thanks very much....I have lots of classic old vinyl to play!
phantom309
dirtyragamuffin
213 posts
 
For that kind of money, you could get a used Rega P3 with arm and an inexpensive cartridge, and it would probably be better than the B&O. Those proprietary B&O carts are too much money for the sound you get.
honest1
586 posts
 
Since the B&O is designed as a system, there should be good synergy between all the parts. If you go the new TT route, try to listen to the entire thing with the cartridge you'll be getting, as randomly throwing together a table, arm, and cartridge may not be an improvement. It is important to match the components together, but I have no idea how. Years ago, I bought a Dual 616Q table, not highend, but widely respected. I did listen to a B&O right next to it (don't remember model), and it was significantly better, but more $$. I went back in a year to upgrade, they talked me into a Linn Axis & Tonearm. I ended up putting cartridge from Dual on Linn, brought it all home, it didn't sound much different than the tapes I had made from my Dual. They said it was a lack of synergy between the arm and cartridge, I should get Linn cart. I ended up taking back my Dual, & would have been better off getting B&O.
sall4's avatar
sall4
21 posts
 
I have an old RX2 with the same problem; the MMC4 that it came with is discontinued. I bought the MMC5 and for my money and time spent with a turntable, it has been a good value. Vinyl has lower on my priority list, however, so I would say it depends how much you will use it. Another brand makes some sense because you may use any brand (or price range) of cartridge and may also upgrade parts, as in the case of the Rega. I have been hesitant to upgrade my B&O as I am relatively happy with it. I wouldn't invest the big bucks in a high-dollar cartridge as the B&O dealer suggests, as the turntable is worth less than the cartridge and you will never be able to sell it for close to your investment should you decide to get rid of it.
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