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Aftermarket headshell leads

I've been considering this upgrade for my turntable. It's a Pioneer PLX-1000 with an Ortofon 2m black. I've been reading some of the aftermarket headahell leads don't come with an already tight fit and that you may have to crimp them onto the cartridge and headshell pins. I'm not sure how comfortable I am attempting that. Anyone have experience they can share? 

Thanks!

128x128blue_collar_audio_guy
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,404 posts
 

Crimp before fitting on pins using a cocktail stick inserted as a support. Then push gently but firmly onto the pins. 

holmz's avatar
holmz
2,328 posts
 

I got a Korf ceramic head shell and rate it as very much an improvement.

blue_collar_audio_guy's avatar
blue_collar_audio_guy OP
42 posts
 

@reubent 

I love the turntable! Heavy, sturdy, built like a tank. It sounds great with the 2M black. Perhaps a bit overkill for that table but I like it. 

@noromance 

Thanks for the suggestion that would make things easier. 

petg60
1,486 posts
 

it isn't hard, steady hand, and needle nose pliers

And a toothpick for safely opening one.

baylinor's avatar
baylinor
1,187 posts
 

Not any different than carts mounted directly on tonearm. A tiny pair of pliers always does the job easily for me. To the advice of jasonborne, I ordered a PLX-1000, getting it Friday. Always wanted a direct drive TT, will hook it up to my Puffin as a secondary TT. I hope Jason knows more about TTs than cables 😉

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