I have a Beogram TX2 I recently bought new in box, with a new, unused MMC2 cartridge. After moderate use over 1-2 months the suspension in the cartridge failed. While disappointing, this wasn’t unexpected given that it’s 35 years old, and I replaced it with a new Soundsmith SMMC2.

Prior to the suspension failing on the MMC2, I was having some tracking issues on certain records that I subsequently chalked up to the failing suspension. But after installing the SMMC2 and ensuring it’s at the recommended 1g tracking force, I’m having the same issues with tracking on some less than perfect records that my Elys 2 cartridge on a Rega Planar 3 has no problems tracking. The Elys 2 has a 1.75g tracking force, but given that cartridge is less than half the cost of an MMC2/SMMC2, I’m a bit surprised the SMMC2 doesn’t track as well. 

The sound of the MMC2/SMMC2 is quite good, but is it known to have tracking issues at the recommended tracking force? Is it simply a matter of having a lower tracking force? Is there any other adjustment I can do to improve tracking, or a slightly higher tracking force that won’t harm the stylus or records? I’ve read that the MMC1/SMMC1 has slightly better tracking, but is it so much better that it’d be worth upgrading after I’ve just purchased the SMMC2?

Any insights/advice would be greatly appreciated.