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Which headshell to use?

Hello. I am a new member to Audiogon and am seeking some adivce. I have a vintage system consisting of a Pioneer SX1980 receiver, Teac X2000 reel to reel, Klipsch Belle's and most recently added a Pioneer Series20 Model PLC-590 turntable. It is set up with the Pioneer PA1000 tonearm, but has an aftermarket headshell by Audioquest. Ive installed an Audio Technica 440ML cartridge that I was previously using on my Empire 698. Given that you guys know just about everything with regard to turntable setup and I know just enough to get myself in trouble, could someone please reccommend an appropriate headshell. Any feedback will be greatly appreciated. Looking forward to becoming part of your community. Rick
35off

Showing 4 responses by 35off

35off OP
7 posts
 
Thanks Mofimadness for your reply. Ill take a look at the Orsonic. I know there is a whole "science" to turntable set up and what works well with what. How much impact does the headshell really have or is it mostly a carrier of the cartridge. Obviously next comes the correct cartridge match which I know is a whole nother story. Any suggestions in that arena will be greatly appreciated as well. Thanks again for your input. RM
35off OP
7 posts
 
Thanks to all for your input so far. Banquo363 it's funny you mention leads because I've read about the importance of high quality connectors. Totally makes sense. In essence they start the chain of events as signal moves through your system. I've been collecting vintage gear for quite some time and have put together some high quality gear for its time. Now it's at a point to attend to the details to get as much out of it as possible. I'm really looking forward to tapping into the brain trust available with this community.
35off OP
7 posts
 
The Audioquest headshell that was on the TT when I bought it is styled like the Acoustical Systems that Banquo mentioned. As I mentioned in my opening post, the tonearm on my table it the Pioneer PA1000 which I understand is from their Exclusive line. There's a listing on eBay for the correct matching headshell in carbon fiber from Pioneer. It's in Russia and the guy wants 140 for it delivered. I think I'm going to get it just so I'll have it. The Orsonic appears to be well regarded by each of you so far. That may be the best long term choice.
35off OP
7 posts
 
Thanks for that bit of info Mofi. That's a biggie! I acquired this TT from a friend of mine who owns a high end stereo store here in Jacksonville Beach. They were doing close to a 200k install and took a bunch of gear from their client on trade. This Series20 TT was part of that gear. Being a vintage Pioneer guy, I grabbed it up right away. It was an easy replacement for the Empire 698 I was running. It fits in nicely with my SX1980 and in my opinion a big improvement over the Empire. I probably should swing back in and see what else they brought in from this guy. So thanks again Mofi, I really appreciate the input I've received from you and everyone on this thread.
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