Headshell Advice

[Jac Hawk]

My question is, i've got a 10g Audio Technica headshell with an Ortofon VMS30 mkII cart in it, the problem is the counter balance is at it's maximum range and i'm struggling to get enough downforce on the cantilever, should i buy a new heavier headshell? or can i simply add some weight to my current headshell?

[walpurgis]

Try a decent blob of BluTak on the headshell to start with. If that helps buy a headshell weight or heavier headshell.

[Stryder5]

I seem to remember I have seen self adhesive 1mm thick lead plate on eBay.

[Jac Hawk]

I seem to remember I have seen self adhesive 1mm thick lead plate on eBay.

my thoughts exactly, however would this affect anything sonically?

[Stryder5]

my thoughts exactly, however would this affect anything sonically?

I'm no expert, but wouldn't think so, between cartridge and headshell if you can adjust VTA?

[Barry]

Why not remove some of the counterbalancing by moving the counterweight forward? That way you can increase the VTF (you will need to use some stylus scales) as well as reduce the inertia of the arm (and hence the effective mass) without the need to use additional weight at the headshell.

[Jac Hawk]

Why not remove some of the counterbalancing by moving the counterweight forward?

it's already as far forward as it can go, hence the need for more weight at the headshell end

[Barry]

it's already as far forward as it can go, hence the need for more weight at the headshell end

Ah, I understand - your use of the phrase "the counter balance is at it's maximum range" lead me to believe the counterweight was positioned to counterbalance the maximum cartidge weight not the minimum.

Yes, a lead shim should solve the problem as has been suggested.

[Jac Hawk]

Yes, a lead shim should solve the problem as has been suggested.

Would adding a lead shim, affect the sound Barry?

[struth]

Bit of blue tack and get it working then weigh it and get a headshell weight suitable if it sounds ok

[Barry]

Would adding a lead shim, affect the sound Barry?

No, shouldn't do. What arm are you using by the way Mike?

[Barry]

Bit of blue tack and get it working then weigh it and get a headshell weight suitable if it sounds ok

Sensible course of action.

[Jac Hawk]

The stock Aiwa arm on that deck, it's a weird unipivot set up but does a good job, i'll upload a photo of it tomorrow so you can see what i mean