Headshell Screws

Good morning, folks. I've got a question about headshell screws. Does it matter if one headshell screw is longer than the other? It doesn't cause any physical interference, and the cart sounds fine. Just curious if this will have any negative effects in the long run. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

Hi Allison,
The longer screw will act as a fastener just as much as the shorter one does. The only difference will be in the extra threads that it has sticking out of the nut. The stylus (and its associated members) will never know the difference, neither will it have any negative impact on anything. Rest assured.

 

The longer screws will add to the total tonearm mass. Shorter screws will be less mass. How much a difference it makes is debatable. I've never measured the difference.

 

The material the hardware is made from and the torque applied will have vastly more influence on the sound as long as all other thing are proper in the set up.

 

No.
It looks nicer, to have the screws
The same length.
If the cartridge had blind holes tapped to save using a nut the it would be essential to have them equal and
Be the correct length ,
Too long and the screw will bottom out
And result in a ruined cartridge body.
On EBsy one can buy assorted screws
Plus washers.
Not a bad idea as then you will always
Have the right screw.

 

Don't worry