Can you replace a turntable needle?

Replacing the needle on your turntable is not an impossible task. With proper research and practice, it is something you can easily do on your own, and save a lot of money. But you do need to make sure you know what you are doing, before you attempt this.

How do I know when to replace my turntable needle?

If the needle starts to “skip forward or bounce” it will need to be replaced. Make sure the grip of the Cantilever is solid and not loose. If there is black residue stuck to the point of the needle, it may be a sign that the stylus was overused and not properly maintained.

Are there different needles for record players?

There are four main stylus shapes, excluding a stylus for 78 RPM records. As the grooves of 78s are about 3-4 times wider than a typical 33 1/3 record and require a stylus designed specifically for these grooves. The tip radius should be at least 20mm.

How do I know what needle for my record player?

If you’re unsure, take a look at the end of your turntable’s tonearm (the part you lift and set on the vinyl to play the music). If you see screws mounting the cartridge to the end of the arm, then the cartridge can be replaced. If you don’t see any screws, then you’ll only be able to replace the stylus.

Can a bad needle cause a record to skip?

When the tip of the stylus loses its keen edge, this will cause the stylus itself to skip over grooves that it would typically glide through. A dull stylus will also cause damage to the record itself, so replace it when needed.

Can you put any needle on a record player?

While most cartridges can only hold a specific type of stylus, many record players can use a variety of cartridges. Search your turntable’s brand and model number online to look for a replacement. You can buy a cartridge that is identical to the original model or upgrade your audio system with a fancier substitute.

What needle should I buy for my record player?

A micro-line needle fits best into the groove, which reduces pressure on the album and leads to less wear. An elliptical needle doesn’t fit as well but generally can be used for recreational purposes. A person who scratches records or loops them should choose a conical-tipped record player needle.

How do I know what kind of needle I need for my record player?

Half-inch cartridges are installed on your turntable via a headshell which is why is why it’s easy to tell which type of cartridge you need. If you see a headshell attached to the end of your tonearm, you need a half-inch cartridge.

How do I pick a record player needle?

What to Look for in a Cartridge. Stylus shape: The shape of the stylus affects how it makes contact with the record groove. The narrower the contact radius, the better the stylus will be able to track modulations in the groove. The two most common shapes of styli are conical and elliptical.

Can you get needles for old record players?

If you have an antique dealer that specializes in old phonographs, you may be able to find the needles you’re looking for there or through their connections. If there isn’t an antique shop specializing in phonographs nearby, you’ll probably need to order them off the internet.

Why does my record player sound scratchy?

Dirt and static electricity may cause good records to sound “scratchy”. A proper cleaning will remove dirt and static electricity from the vinyl. You may be very surprised to hear how good your records sound once cleaned.