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Aftermarket headshell leads

I've been considering this upgrade for my turntable. It's a Pioneer PLX-1000 with an Ortofon 2m black. I've been reading some of the aftermarket headahell leads don't come with an already tight fit and that you may have to crimp them onto the cartridge and headshell pins. I'm not sure how comfortable I am attempting that. Anyone have experience they can share? 

Thanks!

128x128blue_collar_audio_guy
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 

it isn't hard, steady hand, and needle nose pliers

the metal on the sleeves usually deform easily

jasonbourne52's avatar
jasonbourne52
2,863 posts
 

I too have a PLX1000 in my collection of turntables. It came with a nice headshell and a high-quality RCA interconnect. I left the headshell leads alone when I added a Denon 103R mc cartridge. There is no benefit to changing the headshell leads.

noromance's avatar
noromance
9,574 posts
 

Crimp before fitting on pins using a cocktail stick inserted as a support. Then push gently but firmly onto the pins. 

holmz's avatar
holmz
2,328 posts
 

I got a Korf ceramic head shell and rate it as very much an improvement.

blue_collar_audio_guy's avatar
blue_collar_audio_guy OP
42 posts
 

@reubent 

I love the turntable! Heavy, sturdy, built like a tank. It sounds great with the 2M black. Perhaps a bit overkill for that table but I like it. 

@noromance 

Thanks for the suggestion that would make things easier. 

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