MAG M27BS
User Manual
MAG M27BS Moving Magnet Cartridge with Diamond Stylus
For AIWA Turntables: AP-2500, AP-2200, AP-D50, LP-3000, AP-2060N
1. Product Overview
The MAG M27BS is a high-quality moving magnet cartridge designed to deliver excellent sound reproduction for compatible turntables. It features a durable diamond stylus, ensuring precise tracking and clear audio output. This cartridge is an ideal replacement or upgrade for specific AIWA turntable models.

Image 1.1: The MAG M27BS moving magnet cartridge, shown with its clear protective case and two mounting screws. A black background with the "Les Entreprises MAG" logo is visible behind the cartridge.
2. Compatibility
This MAG M27BS cartridge is specifically designed for use with the following AIWA turntable models:
- AIWA AP-2500
- AIWA AP-2200
- AIWA AP-D50
- AIWA LP-3000
- AIWA AP-2060N
Ensure your turntable model is listed above for proper compatibility and optimal performance.
3. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | Moving Magnetic Cartridge |
| Stylus Tip | Stereo Spherical Diamond Tip |
| Output Voltage (at 1kHz, 5 cm/sec) | 5.5 mV ± 3dB |
| Channel Balance (at 1kHz) | Below 1 dB |
| Channel Separation (at 1kHz) | More than 15 dB |
| Frequency Response | 20 ~ 20k Hz |
| Tracking Force | 3.0g (recommended range: 2.5 ~ 3.5g) |
4. Setup and Installation
Installing a new cartridge requires care and precision. If you are unsure about any step, it is recommended to seek professional assistance or consult your turntable's specific service manual.
- Power Off: Ensure your turntable is completely powered off and unplugged from the mains electricity before beginning installation.
- Secure Tonearm: Secure the tonearm in its rest to prevent accidental movement or damage.
- Remove Old Cartridge (if applicable): Carefully disconnect the four color-coded wires from the pins of the old cartridge. Note their positions (usually Red-Right Hot, Green-Right Ground, White-Left Hot, Blue-Left Ground). Unscrew the mounting screws holding the old cartridge to the headshell.
- Attach New Cartridge: Align the MAG M27BS cartridge with the headshell. Use the provided mounting screws to gently secure the cartridge. Do not overtighten.
- Connect Wires: Reconnect the four color-coded wires to the corresponding pins on the new M27BS cartridge. Ensure a firm, secure connection.
- Red: Right Channel Signal
- Green: Right Channel Ground
- White: Left Channel Signal
- Blue: Left Channel Ground
- Align Cartridge: Proper cartridge alignment is crucial for optimal sound and to prevent record wear. Use a protractor (often included with turntables or available separately) to align the cartridge within the headshell. This involves adjusting the cartridge's position and angle.
- Set Tracking Force: Adjust your tonearm's counterweight to set the tracking force to the recommended 3.0g. Refer to your turntable's manual for instructions on setting tracking force. The acceptable range is 2.5g to 3.5g.
- Set Anti-Skate: Adjust the anti-skate setting on your tonearm to match the tracking force. This helps prevent the stylus from pulling towards the center of the record.

Image 4.1: Side view of the MAG M27BS cartridge, highlighting its red body and white stylus assembly. The mounting screws are visible in the foreground.

Image 4.2: Front view of the MAG M27BS cartridge, showing the diamond stylus tip and the four connection pins at the rear.
5. Operating Instructions
Once installed and properly aligned, the MAG M27BS cartridge operates as part of your turntable system. No specific operational steps are required for the cartridge itself beyond standard turntable use.
- Ensure the stylus guard is removed before playing a record.
- Gently lower the tonearm onto the record's lead-in groove.
- After playback, lift the tonearm and return it to its rest, engaging the tonearm clip.
- Replace the stylus guard when the turntable is not in use to protect the stylus.
6. Maintenance
Proper maintenance extends the life of your cartridge and stylus, ensuring continued high-fidelity sound.
- Stylus Cleaning: Regularly clean the stylus tip using a soft brush designed for stylus cleaning, brushing gently from back to front. Avoid using harsh chemicals or excessive force. A dirty stylus can cause distorted sound and damage records.
- Cartridge Body Cleaning: Wipe the cartridge body with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners directly on the cartridge.
- Stylus Inspection: Periodically inspect the stylus for wear or damage. A worn stylus can damage your records and degrade sound quality. Replace the stylus if it appears bent, chipped, or excessively worn.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, ensure the stylus guard is in place. If removing the cartridge, store it in its original packaging or a protective case.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your cartridge, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound or very low sound from one or both channels | Loose or incorrect wire connections; Damaged stylus; Incorrect input selection on amplifier | Check all four wire connections to the cartridge and tonearm. Ensure they are secure and correctly matched (color-coded). Inspect stylus for damage. Verify amplifier input is set to "Phono". |
| Distorted or muffled sound | Dirty stylus; Incorrect tracking force; Improper cartridge alignment; Worn stylus | Clean the stylus. Re-check and adjust tracking force to 3.0g. Verify cartridge alignment using a protractor. Inspect stylus for wear and replace if necessary. |
| Skipping or jumping stylus | Insufficient tracking force; Incorrect anti-skate setting; Damaged stylus; Dirty record | Increase tracking force slightly within the recommended range (up to 3.5g). Adjust anti-skate. Inspect stylus for damage. Clean the record thoroughly. |
| Humming or buzzing noise | Grounding issue; Interference from other electronics; Loose connections | Ensure the turntable's ground wire is securely connected to your amplifier's ground terminal. Move turntable away from other electronic devices. Check all audio cable connections. |
If problems persist after attempting these solutions, please contact customer support.
8. Warranty and Support
This MAG M27BS cartridge comes with a 6-month warranty from the date of purchase, covering manufacturing defects. Additionally, a 14-day "any reason" return policy is offered, allowing for returns within 14 days of receipt for any reason.
For fitting advice, technical support, or warranty claims, please contact the seller or manufacturer directly. Refer to your purchase documentation for specific contact details.
Please note: Damage caused by improper installation, misuse, accident, or unauthorized repair is not covered under warranty.
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