SL1210M5G and DL103R counterweight/Headshell problems

[germbox]

I recently decided to change my gold Technics headshell for a Sumiko HS12 to house my DL103R. all said and done my headshell, cart, and spacer weigh in at 26.5g and I am unable to balance everything, even with the additional technics counterweight. I have heard of a few tricks and actually gaff taped a small socket to the end to finally get it to balance. Now I cant even put my dust cover on

Though the Sumiko seems to be a better headshell, its a bit fussy to setup with the finger lift and all. not to mention I cant use my technics overhang gauge. shortly after getting the Sumiko I caught word of the AT LH18, so I was thinking of selling the Sumiko and getting that one. Any tips and/or suggestions are appreciated.

Freddy


My Technics 1210M5G is stock except for a KAB Fluid Damper

[struth]

I think one of these should fit but sure a techy guy will tell you for sure. Its a stub weight the goes in the back of the arm I think.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/like/25188...f14=108&ff19=0

[DarrenHW]

I think one of these should fit but sure a techy guy will tell you for sure. Its a stub weight the goes in the back of the arm I think.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/like/25188...f14=108&ff19=0

+1, alternatively you could source an aftermarket heavier counter weight such as this

IMG_4105.jpg

[Marco]

Hi Freddy,

Just contact Speedy Steve here, on the forum, and he'll make you a bespoke counterweight, no problem! See here:

http://theartofsound.net/forum/showt...+counterweight

http://theartofsound.net/forum/showt...roduct-Updates



Marco.

[germbox]

Thanks Marco, Do you recommend I get the ATLH18 headshell instead of using the Sumiko, or would it be a negligible difference? Also with the non-technics counterweight and heavy headshell/cart, do I need to buy some kind of device that measures tracking force?

[Andrei]

+ 1 on Speedy Steve. I am very happy with his work for me.
As regards headshells: My experience with headshells is usually that their difference is very small, ( exception with an Ebony headshell).
I certainly recommend cartridge scales. Scales are cheap and you only have to buy them once. They are more accurate than the rotation system of counterweights. I consider that part and parcel of good setup. It is worth the trouble to isolate the table, make sure it is level, Keep fiddling with the VTA until it is accurate, use a spirit level for azimuth. Aficionados will have thier own preferred tracking weights but I just go for the middle of the manufacturer's recommended range.

Good luck and keep us posted.

[Marco]

Hi Freddy,

Thanks Marco, Do you recommend I get the ATLH18 headshell instead of using the Sumiko, or would it be a negligible difference?

Yes, in that respect my experience is contrary to Andrei's, especially with a 103 in the equation, which needs plenty of arm/headshell mass, in order to function optimally. Furthermore, due to the nature of its construction, the LH-18 deals with resonance much more effectively than the Sumiko, so yes, it's purchase is rather a no-brainer

Also with the non-technics counterweight and heavy headshell/cart, do I need to buy some kind of device that measures tracking force?

Yup, a good digital stylus force gauge is mandatory. You can get loads of good ones on ebay for not too much money.

Marco.

[Andrei]

Hi Freddy,
Yes, in that respect my experience is contrary to Andrei's, especially with a 103 in the equation, which needs plenty of arm/headshell mass, in order to function optimally. Furthermore, due to the nature of its construction, the LH-18 deals with resonance much more effectively than the Sumiko, so yes, it's purchase is rather a no-brainer
Marco.

I suppose there are (at least) two variables, one being weight and the other being materials. My comments pertain to materials - I'm sure you are right about mass.

[Marco]

Hey, Andrei, it's what ever your experience has told you - there are no rights or wrongs. In my experience, different headshells have made quite a difference to the performance of my arm and T/T, due to how they make the cartridge attached 'behave', for a number of valid reasons.

I've used the LH-18 that Freddy mentions, with a DL-103, and it's a combination I'd wholeheartedly recommend

Marco.

[germbox]

Thanks everybody for your input. I have contacted speedy Steve, and now I have to weigh my crude counterweight setup and give him the total weight. but since I want to swap the Sumiko for the ATLH18, I will unfortunately haft to wait even longer to play some LP's. Will it be necessary to have a spacer with the DL103r and ATLH18? I just want to make sure I order everything i need in one shot. I saw that some folks just add another mat to their turntable to help with the VTA, is one method better than the other?

Freddy