Are you experiencing distortion or hum in your vinyl playback?
It could be an issue with the headshell of your turntable.
But don’t worry, replacing the headshell is a relatively simple process that can be done with just a few tools and some patience.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to replace your turntable headshell, including how to install a new cartridge and align it properly.
So grab your needle nose pliers and flat screwdriver, and let’s get started!
How To Replace Turntable Headshell
Step 1: Disconnect the old headshell
The first step in replacing your turntable headshell is to disconnect the old one. Locate the tonearm weight at the base of the headshell and turn it to the right while holding the headshell. This will disconnect the headshell from the tonearm.
Step 2: Remove the old cartridge
Next, use a flat-head screwdriver to loosen the headshell screws on your current cartridge. Gently unplug each of the four tonearm wires, making sure to hold them by the plastic sleeve and not pulling on the wire itself.
Step 3: Install the new cartridge
Now it’s time to install your new cartridge. Begin by attaching the tonearm wires to their corresponding colored pins on the cartridge. Leave the stylus guard on during installation to protect it from damage.
Insert the headshell screws into the slots on the headshell and then through the slots on the cartridge housing. Hold the headshell nut in place with your finger and turn the screw until it catches. Repeat with both screws, making sure they are snug but not tightened all the way.
Step 4: Align your cartridge
With your new cartridge mounted, use a protractor or alignment tool to make sure it is properly aligned. Adjust cartridge alignment by adjusting its positioning along the headshell slots. Use a stylus force gauge to check that your vertical tracking force (VTF) is correct.
Step 5: Break in your new cartridge
Your new cartridge may need a few hours to break in before it really starts singing.
Identifying The Issue With Your Turntable Headshell
If you are experiencing issues with your turntable headshell, there are a few things you can do to identify the problem. One common issue is a loud hum or buzzing sound. This may indicate a fault with the ground connection on one channel. To check for this, use a multimeter to measure continuity on each headshell wire, from the clip that connects to the cartridge pins to contact points at the back end of the headshell. If you find any loose clips or oxidation, clean them with contact cleaner and lightly crimp any loose clips with needle noise pliers.
Another issue could be with the stylus or needle housing. If you notice any damage or wear on the stylus, it may need to be replaced. To remove it, gently wiggle it out of the cartridge and dispose of it properly.
It’s also important to ensure that your new cartridge is compatible with your turntable model. Check which model of turntable you have and purchase a headshell designed for that specific model. The AT-HS3 headshell is designed for the AT-LP2X, AT-LP3 and AT-LP3XBT turntables, while the AT-HS4 provides correct alignment for all variants of the AT-LPW30, AT-LPW40 and AT-LPW50 turntables.
Finally, if you’re still having issues after replacing your headshell and cartridge, it may be worth checking the tonearm for any problems. The tonearm is a vital component in a good turntable set-up, so troubleshooting it is usually a good place to start when looking for a fix. Using a flat-head screwdriver, you can unscrew the two screws attaching the cartridge to the tonearm and inspect it for any damage or wear.
Gathering The Necessary Tools For The Replacement Process
Before you begin the process of replacing your turntable headshell, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools to make the process as smooth as possible. Here are the tools you’ll need:
1. Phillips #0 screwdriver – You’ll need this to remove the screws that hold the cartridge in place.
2. Flat-head screwdriver – This will be used to loosen the headshell screws on your current cartridge.
3. Long nose pliers or tweezers – These will come in handy for holding and manipulating small parts during the replacement process.
4. Stylus force gauge – This tool is essential for ensuring that the vertical tracking force (VTF) of your new cartridge is correct.
5. Protractor or alignment tool – This tool will help you ensure that your new cartridge is properly aligned.
6. Dust-free environment – It’s important to work in a clean, dust-free environment to avoid any damage to your turntable or cartridge.
7. Patience and calm hands – Replacing a turntable headshell can be a delicate process, so it’s important to approach it with patience and a steady hand.
By gathering all of these tools before you begin the replacement process, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any challenges that may arise and ensure that your new headshell is properly installed for optimal sound quality.
Removing The Old Headshell And Cartridge
Before you can install a new headshell and cartridge, you need to remove the old one. To do this, start by disconnecting the old headshell from the tonearm. Locate the tonearm weight at the base of the headshell and turn it to the right while holding the headshell. This will disconnect the headshell from the tonearm.
Once you have removed the headshell, use a flat-head screwdriver to loosen the headshell screws on your current cartridge. Gently unplug each of the four tonearm wires, making sure to hold them by the plastic sleeve and not pulling on the wire itself.
Now that you have removed the old cartridge, you can proceed with installing your new one. Attach the tonearm wires to their corresponding colored pins on the cartridge, making sure to leave the stylus guard on during installation to protect it from damage.
Insert the headshell screws into the slots on the headshell and then through the slots on the cartridge housing. Hold the headshell nut in place with your finger and turn the screw until it catches. Repeat with both screws, making sure they are snug but not tightened all the way.
Before you tighten everything completely, make sure to align your new cartridge properly. Use a protractor or alignment tool to ensure that it is properly aligned, adjusting its positioning along the headshell slots as necessary. Finally, use a stylus force gauge to check that your vertical tracking force (VTF) is correct.
With your new cartridge installed, you’re ready to start enjoying your turntable once again!
Attaching The New Headshell To The Tonearm
Once you have successfully installed your new cartridge, it’s time to attach the new headshell to the tonearm. Follow these steps to ensure a secure and proper attachment:
Step 1: Choose the correct headshell
Before attaching the new headshell, make sure it is compatible with your turntable’s tonearm. Audio-Technica offers a wide range of headshells, but it’s important to choose the correct one for your specific turntable model. The shape of your tonearm will dictate which headshells are compatible. Straight headshells work with S or J shaped tonearms, while angled headshells are specifically designed for straight tonearms.
Step 2: Align the headshell
Once you have chosen the correct headshell, align it with the tonearm by sliding it onto the H-4 bayonet mount. Make sure it is securely attached by giving it a gentle twist.
Step 3: Tighten the locking nut
Using your fingers, tighten the locking nut on the tonearm weight to secure the headshell in place. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can damage the threads.
Step 4: Adjust tracking force
With the new headshell attached, adjust your tracking force and anti-skate settings according to your cartridge manufacturer’s recommendations. This will ensure optimal sound quality and prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your records.
By following these steps, you can easily replace your turntable headshell and enjoy high-quality sound from your vinyl collection.
Aligning The Cartridge For Optimal Playback Quality
Proper cartridge alignment is crucial for optimal playback quality. The first step in aligning your cartridge is to set the stylus overhang. This involves getting the distance from the center of the tonearm pivot to the tip of the stylus to the manufacturer’s specified length. This will minimize distortion and maximize null points.
Loosen your cartridge enough to allow it to slide back and forth with gentle resistance. Move the cartridge forward so that the tip of the stylus will lower into the corresponding dot in the alignment tool. Using the grid lines on the alignment tool, square up the cartridge body so that it is parallel to the lines. Some tonearms with removable headshells allow you to move the cartridge on the tonearm’s axis to ensure that it is at a perfect 90-degree angle to the groove.
Once the overhang is set properly, recheck the tracking force, as it may have gone up or down by a tenth of a gram or two. Twist the counterweight very slightly to bring this back to where you were. The next adjustment is VTA/SRA. If you do not have access to a stylus microscope or sophisticated cartridge alignment tools, try to visually align the bottom of the cartridge body so that it is parallel to the surface of the record.
Once you have set VTA to the best of your ability, check tracking force one last time and move on to anti-skate. When your cartridge is playing through a record groove, centrifugal force can pull the stylus to the inside of the groove, causing premature wear of your records, stylus, and channel imbalance from left to right. Setting anti-skating force properly will keep the stylus where it belongs. If you go too far in either direction, however, it can cause an opposite problem.
By following these steps for aligning your cartridge, you can ensure optimal playback quality from your turntable.
