Instruction Manual
MagLite M27BS Moving Magnet Cartridge with Diamond Stylus
Compatible with Garrard DD400, GT25, DD130, SP25, GT20, GT35P Turntables
1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the MagLite M27BS Moving Magnet Cartridge. This high-quality cartridge is designed to deliver superb sound reproduction for your turntable. Featuring a durable diamond stylus, it offers excellent sound quality and strong tracking ability, making it an ideal replacement or upgrade for compatible Garrard models.
2. Important Safety Information
Please read all instructions carefully before installation and use. Keep this manual for future reference.
- Handle the cartridge and stylus with care to avoid damage. The stylus tip is delicate.
- Always turn off and unplug your turntable before installing or removing the cartridge.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not expose the cartridge to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your package:
- 1 x MagLite M27BS Moving Magnet Cartridge with Diamond Stylus
- 2 x Mounting Screws (as shown in images)
Image 1: The MagLite M27BS cartridge with its included mounting screws, displayed on a clear stand against a branded background.
4. Setup and Installation
Installing the M27BS cartridge requires careful handling. If you are unsure, please consult a professional or contact us for fitting advice.
- Preparation: Ensure your turntable is powered off and unplugged. Carefully remove your old cartridge, if applicable, noting the wiring connections.
- Mounting the Cartridge:
Image 2: Front view of the MagLite M27BS cartridge, showing the stylus and mounting points.
- Wiring Connections:
Image 3: Rear view of the MagLite M27BS cartridge, highlighting the four connection pins for wiring.
- Red (R+): Right channel positive
- Green (R-): Right channel ground
- White (L+): Left channel positive
- Blue (L-): Left channel ground
Ensure connections are firm but do not force them. - Tracking Force Adjustment: The recommended tracking force for the M27BS is 3.0g, with a range of 2.5g to 3.5g. Adjust your tonearm's counterweight to achieve this setting for optimal performance and stylus longevity. Refer to your turntable's manual for specific instructions on adjusting tracking force.
- Alignment: Proper cartridge alignment (overhang and azimuth) is crucial for accurate sound reproduction and to minimize record wear. Use an alignment protractor if available, or follow your turntable's specific alignment instructions.
5. Operating Instructions
Once installed and properly adjusted, the MagLite M27BS cartridge operates like any standard moving magnet cartridge.
- Ensure your turntable is connected to a phono preamplifier (or an amplifier with a built-in phono stage) that supports moving magnet (MM) cartridges.
- Gently lower the tonearm onto the record's lead-in groove using the cueing lever.
- Avoid dropping the tonearm onto the record, as this can damage the stylus or record.
- When finished, use the cueing lever to lift the tonearm and return it to its rest.
6. Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance will extend the life of your cartridge and stylus, and ensure optimal sound quality.
- Stylus Cleaning: Regularly clean the stylus tip using a soft brush designed for stylus cleaning, brushing gently from back to front. Do not use excessive force or solvents.
- Record Cleaning: Keep your records clean. Dust and debris on records can accumulate on the stylus and degrade sound quality.
- Stylus Inspection: Periodically inspect the stylus for wear or damage. A worn stylus can damage your records and produce poor sound. Replace the stylus if it appears bent, chipped, or excessively worn.
- Storage: When not in use, ensure the tonearm is secured in its rest and, if available, use the stylus guard to protect the tip.
7. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|
| No sound or very low sound | Incorrect wiring; Phono input not selected; Amplifier volume too low; Damaged stylus. | Check all wiring connections; Ensure correct input is selected on your amplifier; Increase volume; Inspect stylus for damage. |
| Distorted sound or skipping | Incorrect tracking force; Improper alignment; Dirty stylus; Worn stylus; Dirty record. | Adjust tracking force to 3.0g; Re-align cartridge; Clean stylus; Replace stylus if worn; Clean record. |
| Humming or buzzing noise | Grounding issue; Loose connections; Interference. | Ensure turntable is properly grounded to your amplifier; Check all cable connections; Move turntable away from other electronic devices. |
If problems persist, please contact customer support.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|
| Type | Moving Magnet 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) |
| Compatibility | Garrard DD-400, GT-25, DD-130, SP-25, GT-20, GT-35P |
9. Warranty and Support
The MagLite M27BS cartridge comes with a 6-month warranty from the date of purchase, covering manufacturing defects. Additionally, we offer a 14-day "any reason" return policy.
For technical assistance, fitting advice, or warranty claims, please contact your retailer or visit the official MagLite website for support information. Please have your purchase receipt and product model number (M27BS) ready when contacting support.
This manual is subject to change without notice.
