MCH damage output is comparatively low until you get the turret a 40. It's more or less trying to dps as a summoner without a pet. And even then, I've run into my fair share of people who don't play machinist properly (using reload on cooldown) to boost their overall damage, it can slow down teh party significantly. I've had my double MCH parties and when they're both playing optimally, it's not that far behind.

As a former bard main, I am enjoying MCH's overall gameplay a bit more than bard. It's definitely more engaging when I use my reload cooldowns (versus internal release and multi dotting) and espesically optimizing wildfire's damage