From well-played flea market finds to carefully maintained favorite pressings, a record collection places varying demands on the cartridge. Pro-Ject is expanding its lineup with three moving-magnet systems priced from 79 to 179 euros. The Pick it MM 1, MM 2, and MM 3 share a common design foundation but feature different stylus profiles and sonic objectives.
Common base with integrated protective nose
All three cartridges feature a housing made of highly damping ABS plastic and an aluminum stylus holder. The design is intended to reduce unwanted resonance and sound coloration.
An interesting detail can be found on the front of the stylus housing. There, part of the housing’s contour extends beyond the stylus carrier. This protruding nose is designed to protect the sensitive pickup unit from accidental impacts from the front. As an integral part of the stylus housing, this protection is permanently in place during installation and cleaning.
Pick it MM 1 with Hyper-Conical cut
Pro-Ject specifically markets its most affordable model, the Pick it MM 1, to owners of older and frequently played records. Its hyper-conically cut diamond is designed to be forgiving of grooves that are in poor condition and to minimize crackling and popping.
In terms of sound, the manufacturer describes the system as warm and musical. A subtle boost in the upper frequency range is designed to highlight details and create a sense of airiness.
Pick it MM 2 with an elliptical stylus
The Pick it MM 2 features an elliptically cut stylus. Pro-Ject claims this results in finer detail, more precise stereo imaging, and cleaner highs. The manufacturer also cites a refined magnetic system with reduced coil inductance, which is designed to support an open high-frequency response.
Within the trio, Pro-Ject positions the MM 2 as a musical all-rounder for classic pressings and modern releases.
Pick it MM 3 with a super-elliptical stylus tip
The Pick it MM 3 features a stylus cut described by the manufacturer as “super-elliptical.” Its finer contact profile is designed to deliver greater transparency and finer high-frequency resolution. Pro-Ject promises lower distortion, particularly in the inner grooves toward the end of a record side.
The manufacturer also emphasizes a neutral tuning and a frequency response that is largely consistent between both channels, ensuring a stable stereo image. At 4.0 millivolts, the MM 3 has the highest output voltage of the trio.
Standard Mounting and Setting Values
All three models are mounted using the standard half-inch mounting. Pro-Ject recommends a tracking force of 1.8 grams for each, with an acceptable range of 1.6 to 2.0 grams. The stylus compliance of 14 µm/mN and the recommended load resistance of 47 kiloohms also apply to all three systems.
Technical specifications and prices according to Pro-Ject
| Feature | Pick it MM 1 | Pick it MM 2 | Pick it MM 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Needle-ground | Hyper-Conical | Elliptical | Super-elliptical |
| Output voltage | 2.2 mV | 2.2 mV | 4.0 mV |
| Frequency response | 10 Hz–30 kHz | 10 Hz–35 kHz | 10 Hz–40 kHz |
| Channel separation at 1 kHz | >24 dB | >26 dB | >27 dB |
| MSRP for cartridge | 79 euros | 99 euros | 179 euros |
| MSRP Replacement stylus | 59 euros | 74 euros | 112 euros |
The output voltages are based on 1 kilohertz at a speed of 3.54 cm/s. Pro-Ject specifies a tolerance of ±2 decibels for each frequency range. All prices include sales tax.
For more information: project-audio.com
