2. analog
  3. 192013-402

Need Simple, Easy-to-Use "Goof Proof" Audio Headshell Recommendation

I just installed a new cartridge on my Technics SL-1210GR turntable using the stock headshell.  It took a couple of hours to complete including setup and alignment. Afterward, I thought there must be an easier way to perform this task.  Does a headshell exist which includes threaded inserts (underside) to accommodate multiple overhang settings, i.e. 52mm?  Ideally, I want the cartridge to install square to the headshell automatically, provide the correct overhang for my turntable (avoid the use of nuts which I dislike), and offer azimuth adjustment.  I heard AT has a headshell like this but the threaded insert options available exclude Technics 52mm overhang setting.  Any thoughts from the audiophile community on this topic?  Cost, while always a concern, is not paramount since I would pay to avoid a multi-hour cartridge installation activity.  Thanks for your help!

wescoman
wescoman OP
117 posts
 

Thanks for the comments.  I appreciate it!!  I do have all the alignment tools, i.e. Technics overhang gauge, protractor, VTA gauge, micro bubble level, and Fozgometer V2 with test record.  I can get the center/left/right channels fine tuned with the tools available to me.  I did find one product that may/may not work.  It's the Audio Technica AT-LH13/OCC Headshell which is available in Europe but not in the USA.  I reached out to the Danish vendor to see if the overhang adjustment will dial out to what the Technics table requires.  We'll see how that goes.  If not, I will continue using currently available headshells.  

elliottbnewcombjr
5,495 posts
 

this is similar, photos show it from bottom, LH13 probably similar.

 

azimuth: rotates on the barrel

overhang: the fitting has two sets of threaded holes, AND the fitting slides forward/back on the barrel

LH18 adjustable headshell

 

 

note: you need screws proper thread and length for your cartridge

note: no chance to adjust for null points slightly ’unparallell’ to the headshell.

note: probably shorter wires because the barrel is longer than many

kit includes alternate screws and insert shows 3 models: LH 13, 15, 18 

lewm
13,123 posts
 

That's nice, but one issue with it is that when you loosen that set screw to adjust for overhang, you have to be very careful not to twist the headshell and thereby alter azimuth.  They ought to build in a guide on the barrel, so you can do one without danger of the other.

Ag insider logo xs@2x
rauliruegas
13,095 posts
 

Dear @wescoman : " provide the correct overhang for my turntable ".

Look, Technics uses Srevenson cartridge/tonearm alignment using not the normal

IEC standard or even DIN but JIS that no protractor handled it.

That specific alignment with that inner/outer most groove JIS standard is the one that develops the higher distortions.IEC and DIN Stevenson are better about.

 

So make you a favor and don’t be " anal " about. Here you can choose the adequated alignment for your protractor:

 

https://www.vinylengine.com/tonearm_alignment_calculator_pro.php?arm1=arm+1&l1=el&a1lv=230&a1=la&oh1v=&oa1v=&arm2=Lofgren+A&l2=el&a2lv=230&a2=la&oh2v=&oa2v=&arm3=Lofgren+B&l3=el&a3lv=230&a3=lb&oh3v=&oa3v=&arm4=Stevenson&l4=el&a4lv=230&a4=st&oh4v=&oa4v=&rs=12&rsv=&og=iec1&ogv=&ig=iec&igv=&cal=y&submit=calculate

 

Regards and enjoy the MUSIC NOT DISTORTIONS,

R.

 

" I want the cartridge to install square to the headshell automatically, provide the correct overhang for my turntable (avoid the use of nuts which I dislike), "

 

What you align with the protractor is not the cartridge body but the cantilever/tip and there is no correct " overhang for your TT ". You can choose according your protractor.

 

 

 

 

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