Conical styli, also known as spherical styli, are the most common type of stylus used in turntable cartridges. They have a rounded tip that makes contact with the entire groove wall of a record.
While conical styli have some disadvantages, such as being less durable and producing less accurate sound quality than elliptical styli, they also have a few advantages:
- Affordability: Conical styli are the most affordable type of stylus available. This makes them a good option for budget-minded turntable owners.
- Durability: Conical styli are more durable than elliptical styli. This is because the rounded tip of the stylus distributes the force of the stylus more evenly, which reduces the risk of damage.
- Compatibility: Conical styli are compatible with a wide range of turntable cartridges. This makes them a good option for turntable owners who have an older cartridge or who are not sure which type of stylus their cartridge needs.
- Forgiveness: Conical styli are more forgiving of tracking errors than elliptical styli. This makes them a good option for turntable owners who are new to vinyl playback or who have a turntable that is not perfectly level.
Overall, conical styli are a good option for turntable owners who are looking for an affordable, durable, and compatible stylus. They are also a good option for turntable owners who are new to vinyl playback or who have a turntable that is not perfectly level.
Here are some additional things to consider when choosing between a conical and an elliptical stylus:
- Sound quality: If sound quality is your top priority, then an elliptical stylus is the better choice. Elliptical styli are able to track the record grooves more accurately than conical styli, which results in better sound quality.
- Record condition: If you have a collection of older or damaged records, then a conical stylus may be a better choice. Conical styli are less likely to damage older or damaged records than elliptical styli.
- Turntable setup: If you are not sure how to set up your turntable properly, then a conical stylus may be a better choice. Conical styli are more forgiving of tracking errors than elliptical styli, which makes them less likely to cause problems if your turntable is not perfectly set up.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of stylus is right for you is to try both and see which one you prefer. Some people may find that the better sound quality of an elliptical stylus is worth the extra cost, while others may prefer the durability and affordability of a conical stylus.