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The Daily Insight

Should I replace the cartridge or just the stylus?

Author

Samuel Coleman

Published Apr 04, 2026

Should I replace the cartridge or just the stylus?

It is only necessary to replace the stylus, not the entire cartridge. Of course, some people choose to replace the original cartridge with a better cartridge, but that is optional and not something that must be performed on a schedule.

Can you replace the stylus in a cartridge?

Some turntables have tonearms that allow you to replace a stylus and cartridge. A good rule of thumb is that if the cartridge is mounted to the tonearm with screws, then you can replace the cartridge and stylus. If you don’t see any screws, it’s likely that only the stylus can be replaced.

Can you put any stylus on a turntable?

If you plan to replace only the stylus, then all you need to do is find a compatible stylus with the desired needle shape. While the manufacturer likely has its own selection to pick from, other companies make and sell replacement styli for all different models of turntables.

How often should you replace turntable stylus?

Most manufacturers recommend changing your stylus at around 1000 hours of record playing time. So if you’re using your turntable for an hour or so per day on average, ideally you should be changing the stylus every couple of years.

How do I know if my turntable needs a new cartridge?

Signs You Need To Replace Your Turntable Stylus

  1. If you have purchased a used turntable and aren’t sure how many hours of usage the unit has, you should replace the stylus immediately.
  2. If you can hear audible hiss or static where there was none previously on your favorite album, it’s time for a new replacement stylus.

What is the best stylus for turntable?

Goldring E3. One of the best cartridges we’ve heard at the money – a fine all-rounder.

  • Goldring 1042. This Goldring takes a bit of effort to get in place, but the sound is worth it.
  • Ortofon Quintet Blue.
  • Ortofon 2M Red.
  • Nagaoka MP110.
  • Ortofon 2m Blue MM.
  • Audio Technica AT-F7.
  • Goldring 2500.
  • Which is the best dual 622 turntable to buy?

    Great Direct drive Turnatable : German quality The best Turntable Dual made, IMHO. Superb tracking with the electronic controlled direct drive. Wow and flutter is nonexistant. The unique anti-resonator mechanism on the ULM tonearm really works wonders to the sound.

    Where can I find the dual 621 owners manual?

    NOTE To view PDF files the latest version of the official acrobat reader is required. Dual 621 owners manual, service manuals and schematics are for reference only and the Vinyl Engine bears no responsibility for errors or other inaccuracies. The PDF files are provided under strict licence.

    Do you need to set stylus tracking force on a turntable?

    The anti-skating setting will essentially have to match the stylus tracking force used, unless you are a disc jockey. Before calibrating your turntable, make sure it’s perfectly leveled horizontally. Some turntables have feet/legs also called insulators used to adjust the height.

    What does the counterweight on a turntable do?

    These are user adjustable parts and are essential to calibrate the turntable for optimal vinyl playback. The tonearm counterweight applies force (pressure) to stylus located at the other extremity. Calibrating the stylus force is the general term when referring to this setting.

    Can you replace the stylus on a Dual turntable?

    This page lists the recommended replacement stylus for specific DUAL turntable models. The replacement stylus is for the original cartridge fitted with the turntable. Please use this as a guide only. It may no longer apply. With turntables, you cannot rely on the cartridge and stylus stated in the owners manual.

    What kind of Stylus does a United audio turntable use?

    Search DUAL; United Audio 601 Record Player Needle, Cartridge & Idler parts. Search DUAL; United Audio 604 Turntable Needle (Stylus), Belt & Cartridge parts. Search DUAL; United Audio 621 Turntable Needle (Stylus), Belt & Cartridge parts. Search DUAL; United Audio 701 Turntable Needle (Stylus), Belt & Cartridge parts.

    Where to find needles in a Dual turntable?

    Pictured below you will find needles known to have been found in DUAL players and a list of models compiled at press time.

    Is there a replacement stylus for CDS2?

    Replacement Stylus for CDS2 & CDS310 Cartridges. Can Replace Other DUAL Styli: DN 2, DN4 & DN 22. Stylus Type: 0.7 mil. Spherical Configuration. Tracking Force Range: 1.0 – 4.0 Grams. Manufactured by: Dual (Germany).