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Welcome Licorice Pizza (LP) lovers! Setup guides and Vinyl FAQ.

RE: SME-type headshell recommendations?

There are 6 main SME shells

The ortofon type (I believe it was made for SME by Ortofon)
The S2 or raised logo and S2 improved - which has gold plated connector pins - are the lightest - the logo and pins are the only differences AFAIK
The S3 - an S2 without any punched holes, it's a little heavier
The S2R - a slightly heavier and more robust shell, with two locking pins and flat underside.
A slotted mounting holes version of the S2R.
Some can be found badged Shure SME. There may be more.

I prefer the S2R as it has a better cartridge mounting surface and the two locking pins.

Sonically, none are particularly great, I've replaced mine with Yamamoto wood shells and Sumiko HS12s. The difference in sound quality is worth the loss of originality.

The Sumiko would be a good modern alternative if you have the heavy counterweight to balance your cartridge.



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  • RE: SME-type headshell recommendations? - richardz 10/15/0803:23:28 10/15/08 (0)

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