Pioneer A35

[folklore]

If I were to get another D5100 stylus, I would buy this one. Primarily because it is a nude mounted elliptical. There are no specs contained within those two links so nothing mentioned about stylus shape. However, the photo shows the stylus tip is bonded not nude mounted.

https://mrstylus.com/en/product/stanton-d-5100-e_black-diamond/

Shipping is from Germany but I got the one I ordered for a Shure V15 III within three weeks. I am in Canada not Europe so there was no VAT added to the purchase price.

EDIT: Before ordering a new stylus, if that is the direction taken, the left and right channels should be tested with a digital multi-meter set for ohms. Both sides should display very close to the same reading. If one side is dead (display reads OL). then look at getting another cartridge.

Personally I have bought little through Amazon recently. What I have received has been disappointing. Except when I was knowingly ordering junk for cheap.

Product quality, vendor quality, was better in past years.

The two non black diamond styli appear the same, but the cheaper one is sold by Parts Express, which is a well known and reputable company and, I think is or was an AK sponsor. I know nothing about Myneedle, the seller of the more expensive one, but since they look exactly the same, I'd buy the cheaper one. It won't harm your records even though 3.5 grams is on the high side. Some of the reviewers claim it tracks perfectly well at 2 grams so it might be worth experimenting, but keep in mind that mistracking because of low tracking force can be more damaging than simply higher force.
Styli are consumables, so, to me, it makes sense to start with a good quality inexpensive one. You can always buy a better one later, or change cartridges when you have a better sense of what your system sounds like, and whether you'd like to improve it. And you won't have spent a lot of money to learn your options.
Changing cartridges will require disconnecting the old one and removing it, then connecting and attaching the new one, then aligning it (I forget whether the PLA 35 has the handy pop up gauge that the PL 12d had) - it is more work, with some risk of damage or incorrect connections, than simply replacing the stylus - gently pull the old one out, and gently push the new one in. I don't want to discourage you, but I also don't see any reason to switch cartridges until you know what you want.

Thank you both so much! You've been so very helpful! I always appreciate it when those who are more knowledgeable take time out of their day to help somebody new. I'm very interested in this world, so I hope I learn something!

I really do like the Pioneer A35, but will maybe upgrade in the future after I upgrade my speakers and/or receiver. Or, even better, have one for my bedroom and living room!

 

[Toiler]

If I were to get another D5100 stylus, I would buy this one. Primarily because it is a nude mounted elliptical. There are no specs contained within those two links so nothing mentioned about stylus shape. However, the photo shows the stylus tip is bonded not nude mounted.

https://mrstylus.com/en/product/stanton-d-5100-e_black-diamond/

Shipping is from Germany but I got the one I ordered for a Shure V15 III within three weeks. I am in Canada not Europe so there was no VAT added to the purchase price.

EDIT: Before ordering a new stylus, if that is the direction taken, the left and right channels should be tested with a digital multi-meter set for ohms. Both sides should display very close to the same reading. If one side is dead (display reads OL). then look at getting another cartridge.

Personally I have bought little through Amazon recently. What I have received has been disappointing. Except when I was knowingly ordering junk for cheap.

Product quality, vendor quality, was better in past years.

Where in Canada are you located? I am in Alberta.

 

[62vauxhall]

Where in Canada are you located? I am in Alberta.

South Central BC - the West Kootanays.