Quick answer

Install Cardas PCC EG gold plated cartridge clips by carefully sliding each clip onto the corresponding tonearm signal wire pin, then crimping gently with pliers for a snug fit. Avoid over-crimping, which can damage the clip or wire.

Why the Cardas PCC EG clips are a solid upgrade

These economy cartridge clips from Cardas Audio are made from brass with a gold plating, designed specifically for connecting your cartridge to the tonearm signal wires. The gold plating helps resist corrosion and maintain signal integrity over time, a common weak point in budget turntable setups.

A key trade-off: while they are more affordable than premium alternatives, the brass base means they are less flexible than pure copper clips. This makes careful crimping essential to avoid cracking the plating or deforming the clip.

Step-by-step installation guide

  1. Prepare your workspace and tools: Gently remove the existing cartridge clips from your cartridge pins. Use a pair of fine-tipped tweezers or small needle-nose pliers. Place the Cardas PCC EG clips on a clean, non-magnetic surface. Ensure you have good lighting and a steady hand. Common mistake: pulling the wire instead of the clip can damage the tonearm wire. Always grip the clip body.
  2. Identify the correct clip orientation: Each clip has a small opening that slides onto the cartridge pin. Note that the clip's curved side should face outward, away from the cartridge body. Align the clip so it will slide straight onto the pin without twisting. Checkpoint: if the clip feels tight before crimping, do not force it—the pin may be slightly oversized. Use a gentle rocking motion instead.
  3. Slide the clip onto the cartridge pin: Using tweezers, hold the clip by its sides (not the wire end) and carefully push it onto the pin until it seats fully. You should feel a slight resistance as the clip grips the pin. Repeat for all four channels (left hot, left ground, right hot, right ground). Common mistake: sliding the clip too far can expose the wire connection point, causing a short. Stop when the clip is flush with the pin base.
  4. Crimp the clip for a secure connection: With the clip seated, use small pliers to gently squeeze the clip's sides—not the top—to close it around the pin. Apply even pressure until the clip holds firmly but can still be removed with moderate force. Over-crimping can deform the clip or crack the gold plating. Checkpoint: test the connection by gently tugging the wire. If the clip slides off, crimp slightly more. If it won't budge, you've crimped too hard.
  5. Verify polarity and test playback: Double-check that each clip connects to the correct cartridge pin (usually marked on the cartridge body). Once confirmed, lower the tonearm and play a test record. Listen for channel imbalance, distortion, or hum, which may indicate a poor connection or reversed polarity. Common mistake: mixing up left and right channels is easy. Use a multimeter in continuity mode to confirm each wire matches the correct pin if you're unsure.

Product facts

  • Cardas Audio PCC EG Gold Plated Cartridge Clips (set of 4): These economy cartridge clips are specifically designed for connecting your cartridge to the tonearm signal wires. They are made from brass with a gold plating. The brass core provides durability at a lower cost, while the gold plating protects against oxidation that can degrade audio signal over time.

    Cardas Audio PCC EG Gold Plated Cartridge Clips (set of 4)

    Cardas Audio PCC EG Gold Plated Cartridge Clips (set of 4)