Cartridge & Headshell for SL1210 M5G $399

AT 150 MLX

Thanks Tvad. Would you recommend that I use this with the Technics or Sumiko headshell?

Darrell

07-06-08: Dmccombs
Thanks Tvad. Would you recommend that I use this with the Technics or Sumiko headshell?

I'm not Tvad, but I'm running an AT150MLX mounted to an LPGear ZuPreme (just like a Sumiko) headshell on a Technics SL1210 M5G. I like this combo A LOT!

The Sumiko/Zupreme has better wiring and more rigidity. Its extra weight adds some effective mass to the tonearm, making the cartridge compliance/effective mass resonance come in at an ideal 10 Hz. Plus this headshell's azimuth alignment makes it easier to dial in ideal alignment and performance.

I started out with the stock Technics SL1210MG5's headshell. Why not, it comes with your table right? Get comfortable with the stock unit, then move up to the Sumiko. Johnnyb53 is correct, the azimuth alignment on the Sumiko sure puts that headshell out front as the most flexible.

I found the finger lift on the Sumiko when mounted with the cartridge and headshell causes quite a bit of distortion. When I removed the finger lift from the assembly, the distortion went away. So now I do not use the finger lift when mounting the cartridge to the Sumiko headshell.

I found the finger lift on the Sumiko when mounted with the cartridge and headshell causes quite a bit of distortion.
James1969 (System | Threads | Answers)

Most of the finest tonearms utilize finger lifts:
Hadcock, Triplanar, Graham, among others.

The finger lift on my ZuPreme causes absolutely no distortion that can be detected with it on versus with it removed, or in comparison with the stock Technics headshell.

I'd focus on proper set-up of the cartridge, arm, and leveling the table along the arc of the stylus.