ARCHIVED FORUM -- March 2012 to February 2022READ ONLY FORUM
This is the second Archived Forum which was active between 1st March 2012 and 23rd February 2022
I found a 3404 and pair of P45 speakers at an estate sale for cheap. The speakers are great, the table not so much. Seems the left channel is barely working. Just a whisper compared to the right side.
So I am guessing the MMC20EN cart is in need or repair or replacement. I like what sound-smith.com is offering as repair and replacement products. However, at $250 to rebuild or $350 for replacement, is this money well spent?
What table options are there for replacing the 3404 all together for $250-300?
Any opinions on repairing or replacing?
I will be running this system with a MAC1500 amp/tuner. A great hybrid, tube and solid state unit.
Thanks
Axel Schurholz is highly regarded here on Beoworld and can rebuild your MMC for EUR 99. There are also around a half-dozen of them on eBay - just make sure you buy from a reputable seller with good fb who ideally accepts returns.
I had the same problem with a BG3404 and a brand new Soundsmith SMMC20EN. The problem was the cartridge wasn't making full contact with the tonearm. This is a rare problem according to Peter Ledermann, but it does happen. Before Peter took it back and modified it, I had to keep it pulled out about a half a millimeter or so for it to work at all with my BG4002. Before giving up the cartridge as dead, I'd try it in another deck. Lend it out if you have to.
Also, the $150 rebuild at Soundsmith is a nice combination for the BG3404. I have that going in the spare bedroom.
Thank you for leads, I like the rebuild idea.
Thanks, I will reach out to Axel after I test the cart to tone arm connection.