Dropping your stylus on the platter is a common accident that can happen to turntable owners. If you’re not careful, it can damage your stylus and your records.
Here’s what you can do if you drop your stylus on the platter:
- Check the stylus. The first thing you should do is check the stylus for damage. If the stylus is bent or broken, it will need to be replaced. You can usually find replacement styli for most turntables online or at a local electronics store.
- Check the record. If the stylus was dropped on a record, you should also check the record for damage. If the record is scratched, it may not play properly. You can try to clean the scratches with a record cleaning solution, but if the scratches are too deep, you may need to replace the record.
- Clean the stylus. Even if the stylus doesn’t appear to be damaged, it’s a good idea to clean it with a stylus brush. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that may have gotten on the stylus when it was dropped.
- Play a test record. Once you’ve checked the stylus and the record, you should play a test record to make sure everything is working properly. If you hear any skipping or distortion, it’s a sign that the stylus may be damaged and needs to be replaced.
Here are some additional tips to help prevent dropping your stylus on the platter:
- Always use the cue lever to lower the stylus onto the record. This will help to prevent the stylus from being dropped from a high height.
- Be careful when handling the tonearm. The tonearm is very delicate and can be easily knocked out of position.
- Avoid bumping or jostling the turntable. Even a gentle bump can cause the stylus to jump out of the record groove.
- Store your turntable in a safe place. A turntable should be stored in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
By following these tips, you can help prevent dropping your stylus on the platter and damaging your turntable and your records.
