First introduced 50 years ago, the M44-7 intended to meet requirements for the high-end audiophile market. To achieve high-quality audio, head engineer Bob Kita focussed on the ability of the  stylus to move up and down freely in the groove of the record on a suspension system. Alongside reducing harmonic distortion, this suspension system also made the cartridge perfect for the iconic jukebox. Operators quickly discovered the beneficial shock absorption and how it could greatly reduce the chance of skipping. Little did they know, long after the golden years of the jukebox, this very same feature would make the M44-7 an essential piece of kit for the modern scratch DJ.

To delve deeper into what makes the M44-7 so renowned within the DJ circuit all these years later, new music website Muchozapp got in touch to produce a full multimedia feature on this much-loved turntablist icon. Below are some of the results, but you can also read the complete story of how the M44-7 came to be on the Machozapp website.

Needle drop at 500 frames per second

Notice how the M44-7 suspension system reacts and allows the stylus to quickly find the groove despite a violent drop.

Ever wondered what a record looks like in slow motion?

This fascinating footage shows the M44-7 filmed at 1000 frames per second.

Slow motion fast 'baby' scratch

Note how the suspension system allows the needle to stick relentlessly to the record despite interference from the DJ.

Where to buy the Shure M44-7

The M44-7 is designed not to skip under even the most demanding circumstances. For more information please visit M44-7 or to locate a dealer near you, please visit shure.co.uk