Pre-mounted Cartridges
The cartridge mounted on a headshell is the essential component that transforms the grooves of your vinyl records into an audio signal. This crucial link in your hi-fi system largely determines the final sound quality of your listening experience. Choosing a cartridge suited to your turntable and properly mounted on a compatible headshell will allow you to reveal all the nuances and richness of your vinyl records. Read more
What is a cartridge mounted on a headshell?
A phono cartridge is the small component attached to the end of the tonearm that makes contact with the record via its stylus. The headshell is the intermediary piece that allows the cartridge to be fixed to the tonearm. Together, they form a system that converts the mechanical vibrations of the groove into an electrical signal.
Cartridges are mainly divided into two technologies: moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges. MM cartridges are generally more robust, have a higher output level, and often allow for stylus replacement. MC cartridges offer better precision in the high frequencies thanks to their lighter moving assembly, but they are more delicate and require a compatible phono preamp.
Installation and adjustments
Mounting a cartridge on its headshell requires precision and care. Headshells come in different shapes (straight or angled) depending on the geometry of your tonearm. The most common mounting standard is SME (or 1/2” standard), with a spacing of 12.7 mm between the mounting screws.
Installation begins by passing the screws through the nylon washers and the headshell, then screwing them into the threaded inserts of the cartridge. The wiring follows a precise color code: red (right output), green (right ground), white (left output), and blue (left ground).
Correct cartridge alignment is crucial for optimal playback and to preserve your records. Use an alignment protractor to adjust overhang and azimuth. The tracking force should be set according to the cartridge manufacturer’s specifications, generally between 1.5 and 2.5 grams.
Choosing the right combination
Compatibility between your tonearm, headshell, and cartridge is essential. An important parameter is the cartridge compliance, which must match the weight of your tonearm: high compliance (above 30) is suitable for light tonearms, while low compliance (between 5 and 20) is suited to heavy tonearms.
The materials used for the headshell also influence sound performance. Models made of aluminum, magnesium, wood, or carbon offer different anti-resonance characteristics that affect musical reproduction.
Regular maintenance of your cartridge will ensure its longevity and preserve your precious vinyl records. Gently clean the stylus with a suitable brush and periodically check the alignment and tracking force.