The stylus is the most delicate part of a turntable. It is the part that actually touches the record, and it is responsible for converting the vibrations of the record into an electrical signal that can be amplified and sent to a speaker.
If the stylus is bent to one side, it can cause a number of problems, including:
- Distortion: Distortion is a type of sound quality problem that causes the sound to be uneven or inaccurate. A bent stylus can cause distortion by causing the record to vibrate unevenly.
- Noise: Noise is any unwanted sound that is present in the audio signal. A bent stylus can cause noise by causing the stylus to vibrate in a way that is not smooth.
- Clarity: Clarity is the ability to hear the individual instruments and vocals in a recording. A bent stylus can reduce the clarity of the sound by making it difficult to hear the details of the recording.
- Intermittent playback: A bent stylus can cause intermittent playback, where the sound cuts out or skips.
- Damage to the record: A bent stylus can damage the record by scratching it or causing it to warp.
If you think your stylus may be bent to one side, there are a few things you can do to check it:
- Look at the stylus: If you can see that the stylus is bent to one side, then it is definitely bad.
- Listen to the sound: If you notice any of the problems listed above, then the stylus may be bent.
- Use a stylus inspection tool: A stylus inspection tool can help you to see if the stylus is bent.
Here are some additional tips for checking a stylus:
- Use a bright light: A bright light will help you to see the stylus more clearly.
- Look for any bends or kinks: Any bends or kinks in the stylus are a sign that it is damaged.
- Check the tip of the stylus: The tip of the stylus should be smooth and rounded. If it is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
If you find that your stylus is bent to one side, you will need to replace it. You can purchase a replacement stylus from most record stores or online retailers.
To prevent your stylus from bending, you can take a few precautions:
- Clean your records before playing them: Dirt and dust can build up on the stylus and cause it to bend.
- Avoid playing scratched records: Scratches on a record can cause the stylus to bend.
- Set the tracking force correctly: The tracking force is the amount of pressure that the stylus applies to the record. If the tracking force is too high, it can cause the stylus to bend.
- Be careful when handling your turntable: Avoid dropping or bumping the turntable.
By following these tips, you can help to extend the life of your stylus and protect your records.
Here are some additional things to consider:
- The severity of the bend: A small bend may not cause any problems, but a severe bend will definitely need to be replaced.
- The type of stylus: Some styli are more durable than others. For example, moving magnet styli are generally more durable than moving coil styli.
- The age of the stylus: An older stylus may be more likely to be damaged than a newer stylus.
If you are not sure whether to replace the stylus or not, it is always best to consult with a qualified technician. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action.
