Attaching a 1/2'' Cartridge to the Headshell

Both Calypso versions (cardan and silicone oil) use the same headshell arrangement. In this post I will describe how to make the aluminium headshell plate.

Calypso Tonearm uses an adjustable offset headshell. This is necessary, because the effective length of Calypso is not strictly defined and can be set in a range between about 230mm to 280mm. (I would recommend 250mm)

By adjusting offset, overhang and effective length, you have access to all degrees of freedom that characterize tonearm geometry. Check this page for a brief description:
https://www.vinylengine.com/tonearm_alignment_calculator_pro.php


As depicted above, the pickup cartridge is mounted to an aluminium plate which is clamped to the headshell slot using an M3 screw (DIN912)
In earlier versions I tried to use a 3D printed plate, but it proved to be more stable to use an aluminium device. Here is how to make one:

draw a template with the required dimensions to a piece of paper and glue it on 3mm aluminum sheet metal. The dimensions are given here (in millimeters):

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drill three holes with a diameter of 2,5mm and cut the outline with a saw close to the desired shape.

It should look similar to this now. To give it the final shape use a bench grinder or a flat file
this may require some patience but gives you a wonderful reason to listen to your favourite records, which is an important advantage of hand shaping compared to CNC
milling! ;-) It's DIY!
finish shaping by sanding the edges and give it a smooth look by sanding the large surfaces with fine sandpaper
cut M3 thread to the middle hole only!
If metric screws are difficult to obtain in your country, 5-40 UNC may be an option. I've never tested it. Please post a comment if you can share your experiences!
use M3x6mm screw (DIN912 /ISO4762) to clamp the plate to the headshell.
(The screw shown here is a bit longer and needs to be cut to a suitable length.)


Comments

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