[jrebman]

I apologize if this more appropriately asked in the vinyl circle (and if it is, please feel free to move it), but is there anything like a standard size, threadpitch, and length for cartridge mounting screws?  My guess is that they would be either a 1, 2 or 3 at 72 to 890 TPI, but I can't seem to find the info anywhere.

Specifically I'd be interested in mounting screws for a Sumiko Blackbird and/or Ortofon Kontrapunkt B.

I don't know what my obsession with screws is lately. ::

-- Jim

[ricmon]

I have a black bird and it came with several types of screws.  I assume you did not purchase it new if you don't have screws for it.  You should give the guys at The Needle Dr. a call.  They are very familiar with the Blackbird.

[riffer]

I find the screws are most often M2.5, but I have also seen M2.6 and some 3-56 on occassion.

[jrebman]

Ricmon,

I did buy it new but it is still up at my dealer's house.  I don't know if the specs are spelled out in the literature that comes with the cartridge, but I can have my dealer look and I'll also call Needle Doctor.

Thanks Riffer, looks like I should be able to figure it out now.

BTW, this all started with the link you gave me in the buttonhead screw thread -- I saw they have very small/fine thread brass screws and since a few folks seem to say (not just Pierre of Mapleshade fame) that brass screws for mounting cartridges give nice sonic results.  Hell, it's a really inexpensive tweak so why not?  What's the worse that can happen -- go back to the originals?

-- Jim

[riffer]

I use the stainless steel socket head screws.  They are non-magnetic.  The alloy ones aren't.

It's a lot easier using the hex head screws than a slotted head.

Brass would be interesting, but I would worry about using dissimilar metals for the screws.

Wait until you have the actual cartridge mounted so you can determine the correct length.