Upgrade Your Turntable: A Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Cartridge
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Upgrading or Changing the Cartridge on Your Turntable
- Tools Needed
- Removing the Cartridge
- Wiring the New Cartridge
- Mounting the New Cartridge
- Balancing the Tonearm
- Cartridge Alignment
- Vertical Tracking Angle (VTA)
- Conclusion
Upgrading or Changing the Cartridge on Your Turntable
Hey everybody, welcome back to Recordology! Have you ever wondered how to go about upgrading or changing out the cartridge on your turntable? It may sound complicated and tedious, but in this article, I'm going to show you how to easily, effectively, and correctly upgrade or change the cartridge on your turntable. Whether you want to customize the sound or try a different cartridge, this article will guide you through the process step by step. So let's get started!
Tools Needed
Before we dive into the process, let's go over the tools you'll need. At a minimum, you'll need a screwdriver. Depending on the type of screws used in your cartridge, you may need a flathead screwdriver or an Allen wrench. It's essential to have the right tools to ensure a smooth and successful cartridge swap. Additionally, having an alignment protractor and a scale to measure the tracking force is highly recommended. The alignment protractor helps ensure the cartridge is correctly aligned, while the scale helps you set the tracking force accurately. While not necessary, having these tools will give you more precise control over the process.
Removing the Cartridge
To begin the cartridge swap, you'll need to remove the existing cartridge from your turntable. Start by locating the screws holding the cartridge in place. Carefully use the appropriate screwdriver or Allen wrench to remove the screws. Keep in mind that some cartridges may have a separate nut on the back, so be cautious not to lose it. Once the screws are removed, you can disconnect the wires from the cartridge. It's crucial to pay attention to the wiring configuration and make a note of which wire goes where to avoid confusion when installing the new cartridge. With the wires disconnected, the old cartridge can be safely removed.
Wiring the New Cartridge
Now that the old cartridge is out, it's time to wire the new cartridge. Begin by matching the wires to their respective terminals on the new cartridge. Some cartridges may have color-coded wires, making it easier to determine the correct placement. However, if there are no color-coded wires, refer to the manufacturer's instructions or search online for the correct wiring configuration. It's essential to connect the wires properly to ensure optimal performance. Once the wires are securely attached to the new cartridge, you're ready to move on to the next step.
Mounting the New Cartridge
Mounting the new cartridge can be a bit tricky, depending on the type of headshell your turntable has. If your turntable has a fixed headshell, like the one in this example, you'll need to mount the cartridge directly onto the headshell. This can be a bit more challenging as you won't have the freedom to remove the headshell for easier access. However, if your turntable has a removable headshell, the process will be much simpler. With the new cartridge securely wired, you can proceed with mounting it onto the headshell. Carefully align the cartridge's screw holes with the headshell's mounting holes. Using the appropriate screws, attach the cartridge to the headshell, ensuring it is securely fastened.
Balancing the Tonearm
Once the new cartridge is mounted, it's essential to balance the tonearm properly. The balance of the tonearm affects the tracking force and the cartridge's performance. Start by floating the tonearm, allowing it to hover neutrally above the platter. This can be achieved by placing the tonearm just outside the rest but not allowing it to touch the platter. Once the tonearm is floating, adjust the counterbalance to zero. This ensures the tonearm is in an equilibrium state. From there, you can adjust the counterweight to set the desired tracking force for the new cartridge. Consult the manufacturer's specifications or documentation for the recommended tracking force range and adjust accordingly.
Cartridge Alignment
Accurate cartridge alignment is crucial for optimal sound reproduction and to minimize wear on your records. There are two aspects to consider when aligning the cartridge: left-right alignment and vertical tracking angle (VTA). Left-right alignment ensures that the cartridge is aligned parallel to the record grooves for accurate tracking. The alignment protractor is a useful tool for this task. Place the protractor on the turntable platter and align the cartridge stylus with the corresponding grid marks on the protractor. Adjust the cartridge position as necessary to achieve proper alignment. It's recommended to perform this adjustment at two points on the protractor to ensure accurate alignment.
Vertical Tracking Angle (VTA)
The vertical tracking angle (VTA) refers to the angle at which the cartridge stylus contacts the record groove. The correct VTA ensures optimal performance and sound quality. While some turntables allow VTA adjustment, not all do. If your turntable has VTA adjustment, consult the manufacturer's instructions to set the correct VTA for your cartridge. If your turntable does not have VTA adjustment, ensure that the cartridge is at a height that allows the stylus to track the record's grooves properly. It's essential to find the right balance to prevent excessive or insufficient tracking force.
Conclusion
Upgrading or changing the cartridge on your turntable might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a rewarding experience. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this article, you'll be able to successfully swap out your cartridge. Remember to take your time, pay attention to details, and ensure proper alignment and tracking force. With a newly installed cartridge, you can enjoy enhanced sound quality and a personalized listening experience. Keep exploring and experimenting to find the perfect cartridge for your taste and enjoy the world of vinyl to its fullest.
FAQ
Q: Can I change the cartridge on any turntable?
A: In most cases, the cartridge on a turntable can be changed. However, it's essential to ensure compatibility between the cartridge and your turntable. Some turntables have fixed headshells, making cartridge replacement more challenging. Removable headshell turntables offer more flexibility for cartridge swaps.
Q: Do I need specialized tools to change the cartridge?
A: The basic tools you'll need are a screwdriver and possibly an Allen wrench, depending on the type of screws used in your cartridge. Additionally, having an alignment protractor and a scale to measure tracking force is highly recommended but not essential.
Q: How often should I change the cartridge on my turntable?
A: The lifespan of a cartridge varies depending on usage and maintenance. On average, cartridges can last between 500 and 1500 hours of playtime. However, it's essential to monitor the sound quality and performance of your cartridge and replace it when it shows signs of wear or degradation.
Q: Can I use any cartridge with my turntable?
A: Cartridges come in different shapes, sizes, and mounting styles. It's crucial to ensure compatibility between the cartridge and your turntable. Factors such as tonearm type, headshell compatibility, and tracking force range should be considered when selecting a new cartridge.
Q: How can I tell if the cartridge alignment is correct?
A: Proper cartridge alignment is crucial for accurate tracking and sound reproduction. The use of an alignment protractor ensures precise alignment. By aligning the cartridge stylus with the grid marks on the protractor, you can achieve optimal alignment. Proper alignment reduces groove wear and distortion while maximizing the lifespan of your records.
Resources
That's it for now! Enjoy your vinyl journey and keep grooving!
