Pro-Ject PICK IT MC2 cartridge

During the development of its ‘True Balanced’ vinyl turntables and phono stages, Pro-Ject realised the importance of MC cartridges for high-performance reproduction.

In fact, only MC cartridges make it possible to use all the technical advantages of a balanced connection in terms of dynamics, soundstage and, above all, operating silence. Unfortunately, however, these cartridges are often offered at prices that are prohibitively expensive for most music lovers.

To make up for this, Pro-Ject now offers the cheapest low-level MC cartridge on the market, the Pick It MC1. The Pro-Ject Pick It MC2 is a more elaborate version of the latter, which required a year and a half of development and numerous listening and testing phases by RND Pro-Ject.

Pro-ject Pick it MC2: presentation

The Pro-Ject Pick it MC2 is built in a low-resonance yellow ABS case. It is fitted with threaded inserts to accommodate the mounting screws and facilitate installation. This casing gives a total weight of around 5 grams, combined with an average compliance (15) that is perfectly suited to most mid-range turntables and arms.

Pro-ject Pick it MC2: Technical

This low-level MC cartridge features an elliptical stylus mounted on an aluminium cantilever. This assembly produces a richer sound and more subtle details than the Pro-ject Pick it MC1.

The generator is made up of N40H neodymium magnets and OFC 6N pure copper square coils. The very light stylus/cantilever/coil assembly gives an excellent frequency response and a transient response superior to any MM.

The lower impedance also means less sensitivity to external influences, which means less hum. However, due to the lower output (typically around 20dB lower), it is recommended to use a high quality phono stage.

Pro-Ject has chosen the best Japanese components in the most critical parts such as the diamond and the cantilever.

Pro-ject Pick it MC2: Restitution

The brand new Pro-Ject Pick it MC2 cartridge offers astonishing clarity and transparency. The reproduction is nuanced and subtle, while offering excellent dynamics and remarkable resolution.

The soundstage and stereo image are very realistic for a cartridge in this category. The bass is very articulate and precise, with an excellent swing.

Vocals have the presence and realism typical of MC cartridges.

The price of the Pro-Ject Pick it MC2 is an excellent opportunity. At a price that's still ‘affordable’, it makes MC technology accessible to as many people as possible, and above all the musicality that characterises a moving-coil cartridge.

Highly recommended!