The lifespan of a stylus depends on a number of factors, including the type of stylus, the care it receives, and the type of records it is played on.
Typically, a stylus can last anywhere from 500 to 1,000 hours of playback. However, some high-quality styli can last up to 2,000 hours.
Here are some of the factors that can affect the lifespan of a stylus:
- Type of stylus: The type of stylus can have a big impact on its lifespan. Diamond styli are the most durable and can last the longest. However, they are also the most expensive.
- Care: The care that a stylus receives can also affect its lifespan. If the stylus is not cleaned and aligned properly, it will not last as long.
- Type of records: The type of records that a stylus is played on can also affect its lifespan. Scratched or warped records can damage the stylus and shorten its lifespan.
Here are some tips for extending the lifespan of your stylus:
- Clean your stylus regularly.
- Align your stylus regularly.
- Avoid playing scratched or warped records.
- Use a high-quality phono cartridge.
- Take your turntable to a qualified technician for regular maintenance.
If you notice that your stylus is starting to wear out, it is important to replace it as soon as possible. A worn-out stylus can damage your records and distort the sound.
Here are some of the signs that your stylus needs to be replaced:
- The sound is distorted.
- The stylus is skipping.
- The stylus is dirty or damaged.
