• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

Time For a New Stylus?

Ackermann

Ackermann

New Member
I’m running a Dual 1219 with Pickering V15 and D400 stylus. It’s a fairly new (to me) deck I purchased from the original owner. It has been treated well, but not used for some twenty years.
I cleaned it up, oiled the motor, it is silent and works flawlessly now.
But, when I went to setup the tonearm tracking, alignment, etc...I walked slowly through the original manual, read all about the Pickering and stylus...I played “Here Comes the Sun” Beatles (my go to when setting up a turmtable), and on the vocal highs, especially words ending in “S” there is a slight crackling distortion.
New stylus? Cartridge issue? Wiring? My Receiver and speaker are solid, I do know that.

Suggestions appreciated. Thanks!
 
Register to hide this ad
Make sure the headshell leads are all clean & you're getting good contact. Same for the RCAs.
Things can get corroded over 20 years.
Recheck alignment if the sibilance persists.
Those should be the easiest & cheapest things to try.
Good luck.
 
If all else fails, gradually increase the tracking force. That often stops that problem. Search sibilance in this forum.
 
Hunted11 said:
Did you account for the weight of the brush when you adjusted the VTF? The brush usually throws it off by about a gram. If you didn't, you are tracking too light.
Click to expand...

Yes, Pickering states to balance the tonearm with the brush attached and then add one gram to the desired tracking force. If using a scale to set the tracking force be sure that the brush is not touching any surface. I have heard many explanations for adding a gram to the tracking force. It is simply because when the brush touches the record surface it is no longer exerting any weight on the stylus due to the hinges.
 
Cleaned the contacts first. Then upped the tracking force. I didn’t compensate for the brush, or the sled that attaches to the headshell. That did it. Thanks all!
I want to get what I can out of the stylus. Apparently it’s original to the turntable, 69-70. It doesn’t have the wear you’d expect.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom