Quoted from Humph:I was also torn on a MET Pro vs Premium for a NIB.
I played a MET Pro for about a year in a barcade and just loved the thing & almost bought it from the barcade manager.
Then made a 60 mile special trip to another barcade just to try out a Premium (never played one before) and the GI lighting sold me on it, as well as the other additional stuff.
I agree with you on that awkward size of the hammer, may replace it down the line.
I was just the opposite. Played an LE for about two years on location. Then played a Pro and was amazed at the difference. I thought it was way better. To me, removing the hammer was a surprising improvement.
It's hard to explain, but the Pro, was faster, cleaner, and more fun. I'm convinced that that the hammer blocks the view and interrupts the game.
The Pro wasn't about the cost, either. With all the mods I have into the Pro (total lightshow, spinner, purple armor, updated sound...) I paid more than a stock NIB Premium.
For me, the extra money I spent improved the game with features I wanted, rather than having the Hammer, etc. I paid for it, but I got what I feel is a better game for the money.
I know many owners love the hammer. I'm not one of them. Glad there are two great versions of Metallica so everybody is happy.