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.
There are a number of things that can damage a turntable stylus. Here are some of the most common:
- Scratched records: Scratches on a record can damage the stylus by causing it to vibrate unevenly. This can lead to distortion and other playback problems.
- Dirty records: Dirt and dust can build up on the stylus and cause it to wear down prematurely.
- Too much tracking force: The tracking force is the amount of pressure that the stylus applies to the record. If the tracking force is too high, it can damage the stylus.
- Accidental drops: If a turntable is dropped, the stylus can be damaged.
- Misalignment: If the stylus is not aligned properly, it can cause wear and tear on the stylus.
- Improper cleaning: Using harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the stylus can damage it.
If you are concerned about damaging your turntable stylus, there are a few things you can do to prevent it:
- Clean your records before playing them: You can use a soft cloth or a record cleaning solution to remove dirt and dust.
- Avoid playing scratched records: If a record is scratched, it is best to avoid playing it altogether.
- Set the tracking force correctly: The tracking force is the amount of pressure that the stylus applies to the record. You can find the recommended tracking force for your turntable in the user manual.
- Be careful when handling your turntable: Avoid dropping or bumping the turntable.
- Align your stylus properly: You can align your stylus using a protractor or a cartridge alignment gauge.
- Clean your stylus regularly: You can use a stylus brush or a stylus cleaning solution to clean the stylus.
By following these tips, you can help to extend the life of your turntable stylus and protect your records.
