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Help with cartridge wire clips

Finally got all the parts for my Michell Gyro SE. Trying to put it together tonight, and the clips for the tonearm (Michell Tecnoarm II) are too small for the cartridge's pins (Hana ML). Looking around online I found usually the clips have a slit, or multiple for the round ones, so you can expand them for the pins. There are no slits in these clips, and I am at a loss as to what I am missing here. I also tried my Denon DL-160, same thing though. The manual only mentions making sure the wire color matches the pin, nothing else. Does anyone know anything about these arms? 

 

coreyt
lewm
13,223 posts
 

A toothpick with a round profile works fast and safely to open up the cartridge clips. I wouldn’t go near them with metal tools but an awl would probably work if you’re careful. You do want them to fit tightly as possible so don’t overdo it.

rhg3
211 posts
 

OP, that is interesting. I’ve only used the clips with a ‘slit’ which allowed me to stretch them to fit the pins. I would then gently clamp down on the clips after the pins were in to ensure a snug fit.

Are you able to ‘stretch’ the clips as described? 

audioguy85's avatar
audioguy85
2,018 posts
 

Ortofon headshells are known for this, possibly because their headshells are designed for their own cartridges.  I had issues trying to install a Hana into one. Ended up breaking a clip. I solved the issue by removing the leads and replacing them with ones that actually fit the cartridge.

lexphin
62 posts
 

What lewm stated. 

Round wooden toothpick 

coreyt OP
5 posts
 

Turns out they were soldered on backwards. After reaching out to Michell they told me there was a small batch of arms assembled like this. 

They’re sending me a new one. Really hope that’s the last issue. I’ve had this table since August trying to get it finished. 

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