Bent cantilever on Exact 2......oops


As I was removing an LP from the platter last night, I accidently hit the back of my hand into my Rega Exact 2 cartridge, and now the cantilever is bent. The "new" position is about 10 - 15 degrees inward, and about 10 degrees downward. It still seems to be tracking normally, and after playing several familiar tracks after "the accident," I cannot perceive of any changes in the sound of music.

What should I do ? Buying a new cartridge is not part of my overall household budget right now. Since the music still sounds great, can I just keep playing my LP's without worry ? Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks a lot.

adam18
Cantilevers are coated with very hard (brittle) materials. Once it is bent the sonic characteristics of the cantilever have been forever changed. You may or may not be able to bend it back but ever if you do, it has been compromised.
Adam18-I almost glossed over that you made two posts here and that you are a dentist. When I first read your post I thought you were some poor kid or a married man whose wife rules the checkbook. I have never heard of a poor dentist. Geez, I thought you guys were the ones buying all the mega expensive gear and not Rega Exact cartridges let alone saying replacing one you ruined isn't in your budget. Sorry, I just couldn't resist. Maybe you just got out of dental school and you owe a zillion dollars in student loans.
Hey Mepearson and Thorman.......Maybe you guys should re-examine your priorities.....My wife and I just donated $ 10,000.00 to our local food banks to help feed our neighborhood's construction workers and emergency medical providers who are out of work due to this recession that seems to be affecting everyone except you two. So, you're right.... a new cartridge purchase is the last thing I need to spend money on right now. So, why don't you think a moment before you ridicule somebody's financial situation ???
Adam18
Just trying to Poke a little fun! Sorry you didn't see it that way..Cetainly no offense intended........