MAG Turntable Diamond Stylus Cartridge

MAG Turntable Diamond Stylus Cartridge User Manual

For SANSUI FR D35, FR Q5, SR525, FR D25, SR333 Turntables

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your MAG Turntable Diamond Stylus Cartridge. Designed for high-fidelity audio reproduction, this moving magnetic cartridge with a diamond stylus needle offers excellent sound quality and strong tracking ability. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and use to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your product.

2. Safety Information

  • Handle the stylus with extreme care. The diamond tip is delicate and can be damaged by improper handling.
  • Keep out of reach of children.
  • Avoid touching the stylus tip with your fingers to prevent damage and contamination.
  • Ensure your turntable is powered off and unplugged before attempting installation or maintenance.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

  • 1 x Moving Magnetic Cartridge
  • 1 x Diamond Stylus Needle (pre-installed or separate)

4. Specifications

Technical Specifications
FeatureValue
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 Response20 ~ 20k Hz
Tracking Force3.0g (recommended range: 2.5 ~ 3.5g)
Stylus TipStereo Spherical Diamond Tip
MaterialDiamond (stylus)

5. Compatibility

This MAG Turntable Diamond Stylus Cartridge is compatible with the following SANSUI turntable models:

  • SANSUI FR D35
  • SANSUI FR Q5
  • SANSUI SR525
  • SANSUI FR D25
  • SANSUI SR333

Note: Compatibility with other models is not guaranteed. Please consult your turntable's manual for specific cartridge requirements.

6. Setup and Installation

Proper installation is crucial for optimal sound quality and to prevent damage to your records and equipment. Follow these steps carefully:

  1. Power Off Turntable: Ensure your turntable is completely powered off and unplugged from the mains electricity supply.
  2. Remove Old Cartridge (if applicable): Carefully disconnect the four color-coded wires from the old cartridge. Note their positions (usually Red for Right+, Green for Right-, White for Left+, Blue for Left-). Unscrew the old cartridge from the headshell.
  3. Attach New Cartridge: Align the MAG Turntable cartridge with the mounting holes on your turntable's headshell. Secure it loosely with the provided screws (if any, or use existing ones). Do not overtighten yet.
  4. Connect Wires: Connect the four color-coded wires from the tonearm to the corresponding pins on the new cartridge. Ensure a firm connection without bending the pins.
  5. Stylus Protection: If the stylus protector is on, leave it in place during initial alignment.
  6. Alignment (Crucial Step):
    MAG Turntable Diamond Stylus Cartridge with clear protective cover

    Image: MAG Turntable Diamond Stylus Cartridge. This image shows the cartridge with its clear protective cover, highlighting the stylus and connection pins.

    Proper cartridge alignment (overhang and azimuth) is critical for sound quality and record preservation. Refer to your turntable's manual for specific alignment instructions and use an alignment protractor if available. The stylus tip should be perpendicular to the record surface and track correctly across the grooves.

  7. Set Tracking Force: Carefully set the tracking force to the recommended 3.0g (or within the 2.5g to 3.5g range) using your turntable's counterweight and tracking force scale. Refer to your turntable's manual for precise adjustment procedures.
  8. Anti-Skate Adjustment: Adjust the anti-skate setting on your tonearm according to your turntable's manual, typically matching the tracking force.
  9. Final Tightening: Once alignment, tracking force, and anti-skate are set, gently tighten the cartridge mounting screws.

7. Operation

After successful installation, your MAG Turntable Diamond Stylus Cartridge is ready for use. Always ensure the stylus protector is removed before playing a record and re-attached when not in use.

  • Playing Records: Gently lower the tonearm onto the record using the cueing lever. Avoid dropping the tonearm directly onto the record.
  • Handling Records: Always handle records by their edges to prevent fingerprints and dust accumulation.
  • Stylus Care: Never touch the stylus tip with your fingers. Use a soft brush designed for stylus cleaning, brushing gently from back to front.

8. Maintenance

  • Stylus Cleaning: Regularly clean the stylus tip using a dedicated stylus cleaning brush or fluid. Brush gently from the back of the stylus towards the front.
  • Cartridge Body Cleaning: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe the cartridge body. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
  • Stylus Replacement: A diamond stylus has a finite lifespan, typically 500-1000 hours of play, depending on care and record condition. Replace the stylus when you notice a degradation in sound quality or visible wear on the tip to prevent damage to your records.

9. Troubleshooting

Common Issues and Solutions
ProblemPossible Cause / Solution
No Sound or Weak Sound
  • Check all wire connections between the cartridge and tonearm.
  • Ensure the amplifier/receiver input is correctly selected (Phono input).
  • Verify the stylus is properly seated in the cartridge.
Distorted Sound / Skipping
  • Check tracking force; it might be too light or too heavy.
  • Verify cartridge alignment.
  • Clean the stylus tip.
  • Inspect the stylus for damage or wear.
  • Ensure records are clean and free of dust.
Humming or Buzzing Noise
  • Ensure proper grounding of the turntable to the amplifier.
  • Check for loose wire connections.
  • Move audio cables away from power cables.

10. Support and Warranty

For technical assistance, replacement parts, or warranty inquiries, please contact MAG Turntable customer support through your retailer or the official MAG Turntable website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

While specific warranty details are not provided in this manual, MAG Turntable products are typically covered by a limited warranty against manufacturing defects. Please refer to the warranty information provided at the time of purchase or visit the manufacturer's website for full terms and conditions.