What is a Record Headshell?
A headshell is a part that a DJ uses on turntables or a record player. It is a small headpiece that attaches to the tone arm, with the cartridge bolted to it. Some types of headshell can have weights attached, which come in use when the DJ wants to scratch the record. A Shure headshell is an important part of DJ equipment along with the turntables, needles, tonearm, cartridge, dust cover, and of course records.
How Do Headshells Work?
On the turntables, the headshell is found on the end of the tonearm and is where the cartridge and stylus are mounted.
- How are they held in place? Some headshells are held in place with either a bayonet mount or a screw. Some can detach freely, while others need you to remove screws in order to do so.
- Why do I need them? Headshells are all about convenience and different stylus and cartridge makeups produce different tonal qualities. One assembly may be ideal for electronic music but bad for rock, while another may be good for classical but awful for dance music.
How Do I Replace the Cartridge, Stylus, and Headshell?
If you find that the sound coming from your turntable is not the same as before, scratching doesn't have the same effect, or the needle is slipping easily, it might be time for some replacement parts. It is a fairly easy procedure to replace the Shure cartridge, stylus, and headshell on your turntables when they wear out over time. You will need to follow these steps:
- Step 1: Open the turntable dust cover and find the headshell. Remove the stylus from the cartridge but be careful not to pull too hard as this can break the plastic.
- Step 2: Release the headshell from the tonearm by turning the tonearm toward you. Use a Philips screwdriver to remove the screws and release the cartridge, then unplug the wires from the pins.
- Step 3: Replace with new cartridge by plugging the pins in the opposite way you removed them ensuring that you match the colors from wire to pin. The cartridge should screw back in in the same way you removed it.
- Step 4: Before mounting the headshell, insert a new stylus into the cartridge then screw the headshell onto the tonearm. Make sure to test the new needle and allow for a break-in period of time.
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