Phono Cartridges

Importance of the Headshell

The headshell ensures the connection between the phono cartridge, which contains the stylus, and the tonearm of your turntable. Its role is crucial as it directly influences the quality of groove tracking. A good headshell must be rigid to avoid resonances while being lightweight to not overload the tonearm. Its shape and design should allow for precise alignment of the cartridge.

Selection Criteria

Several criteria should be considered when choosing a headshell:

• Compatibility with your tonearm and cartridge (standard 1/2 inch or SME, weight, etc.)
• Rigidity and lightness of the material (aluminum, carbon, magnesium…)
• Precision of possible adjustments (azimuth, alignment, height…)
• Ease of mounting and replacing the cartridge

A well-designed headshell will contribute to better tracking stability, minimizing vibrations and promoting good groove tracking. It will also allow for fine-tuning of parameters like vertical tracking angle (VTA) or tracking force, to get the best out of your cartridge.

Upgrade and Replacement

Replacing the original headshell with a high-end model is an excellent option to breathe new life into your turntable. By opting for a quality headshell, you will achieve a more stable stereo image, better dynamics, and a more faithful reproduction of the tones and details of your favorite vinyl records. It’s a wise investment if you want to exploit the full potential of your phono cartridge and rediscover your records in a new light.