A stylus is the needle that plays vinyl records. It is made of a very fine needle that vibrates as it moves across the grooves in the record. The vibrations are then converted into sound waves by the cartridge.
A stylus can scratch a vinyl record if it is not properly aligned or if it is dirty. If the stylus is not aligned properly, it can wobble and cause scratches. If the stylus is dirty, it can also cause scratches.
Here are some signs that your stylus may be scratching your records:
- The sound is scratchy or distorted: If the sound coming from your turntable is scratchy or distorted, it could be a sign that your stylus is scratching your records.
- You see scratches on the record: If you can see scratches on the record, it is a sure sign that your stylus is scratching it.
- The stylus is worn or damaged: If the stylus is worn or damaged, it is more likely to scratch your records.
If you think your stylus may be scratching your records, there are a few things you can do:
- Have the stylus aligned: A qualified technician can align your stylus properly.
- Clean the stylus: There are special cleaning solutions available for styluses. You can also use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the stylus.
- Replace the stylus: If the stylus is worn or damaged, you will need to replace it.
By following these tips, you can help to prevent your stylus from scratching your vinyl records.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when using a stylus:
- Do not apply too much pressure: When playing a record, do not apply too much pressure to the stylus. This can cause the stylus to wobble and scratch the record.
- Do not drop the stylus: If you drop the stylus, it could become damaged and scratch your records.
- Be careful when handling the record: When handling the record, be careful not to touch the grooves. This can also cause scratches.
