Tuesday, September 27, 2016

What To Know When Replacing Record Player Needles

By Mark Smith


Record players have an aesthetic novelty to them that just attract anyone. People are now buying more vinyl records, with 9.2 million in sales during 2014, which is a significant increase compared to previous years. The vinyl revival encourages people to listen to their favorite tracks with an older and less convenient machine compared to high tech music players.

These players are a more complex device to play music with. Turntables need to be kept in top shape. Parts like record player needles, also known as stylus, need cleaning and replacement from time to time. Keeping the the whole device in pristine condition assures that the record played on the turntable will always sound great.

The first important step is to find the right replacement. It is vital that the new purchased needle is compatible with the machine. Check any instruction documents that are included with the turntable upon its purchase. This may contain information of what specific parts are used. Best to message a phonograph specialty shop, in case the specifications are not provided. Inquire a specialist when you have an antique.

There are other equipment that are strongly recommended for replacing that vital part of the turntable. Although not necessary, prepare nose pliers, in case the stylus gets stuck in the player cartridge. Consider cleaning the cartridge with a can of compressed air before replacing the module with a fresh stylus.

Before disassembling and tinkering with the stylus and cartridges, make sure the device is turned off. This also means that other built-in parts like speakers and the preamp are off. Proceed then to removing the tone arm by locating the attached lever arm or device. Some record players have cartridge carriers that are removable from the arm so it is easier to locate area that needs replacing.

Once you get a hold of the needle, carefully remove it by hand. The pliers help give a tighter grip on the stylus if it cannot be done by hand. Just be certain that the force is strong enough for a grip but not too strong to destroy the old tip.

Once you have successfully removed it, make sure to separate the old needle from the new one. Spray the cartridge with the can of compressed air where the old needle is placed. This makes sure there is no dust or debris that remains in the there.

Separately purchased needles may come with their own instructions, so it is best to follow that. Insert the new stylus in the cranny where the old tip was located in the cartridge. Place the metal tip gently with minimal force but enough to fit it in properly. Make sure the pointy end is facing down.

Test the turntable to see if replacing the tip was the issue. Put in a vinyl record and check for abnormalities in sound . There are many other factors that can affect the sound the phonograph produces. If there are still any irregularities, then it could be a different part of the machine. If the problem persists, consult a turntable doctor.




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