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When is it time to replace your cartridge?

Bert86

Bert86

New Member
Long time lurker, first time poster.

I recently finished assembling my first component audio system, thanks in large part to info on the AK forums, but I've got a question about cartridge replacement. My TT came setup with a decent vintage Grado cartridge, but I've noticed heard some sibilance on my more loved (read: played out) records and was able to reduce it by increasing the tracking force and anti-skate from 2g to 2.2g, which is outside of spec for the cartridge. So a new stylus is definitely in order, at least, and I know the cart is most likely compatible with new Prestige styli.

Complicating the issue is that there's a small crack in the plastic housing of the cartridge. It doesn't affect the stylus' ability to stay properly seated, it seems to be tracking fine, and the sound quality is okay considering the stylus is likely worn out. But is that plastic housing important? Is it a sign that I should just replace the whole cartridge? I'm on a bigtime budget (obvious from my setup, maybe), and brand new to the audiophile game, so any advice and guidance would be most helpful.
 
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Can't answer about the crack and how that might affect the cartridge long term. A worn stylus will cause long term damage to records, though. Once it's done it is permanent so if you don't know certainly that the stylus is in good order then I wouldn't use it anymore. Reading old AES papers from the days when lots of testing was done on record and stylus wear always states that if you are hearing the sound of a worn stylus then damage is occurring each time you play. So either way, new cartridge or just new stylus, I wouldn't delay.

Edit: Can you post a picture of the crack so the Grado experts can have a look and render an opinion?
 
While taking the photo, I noticed that it's actually cracked on both sides. Maybe more accurate to say that it's broken. So I think I'm more in need of recommendations for a replacement. Is it stupid to look at the used market for cartridges?




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Would appear where the cracks are that it may impact the stability of the stylus assembly but maybe not. If this were mine I'd find another daily driver and keep this in reserve. I wouldn't toss it but that's because I am a bit of a pack rat.
 
I have a couple of older grados that I enjoy, but a new prestige cartridge with stylus included doesn't cost a whole lot more than just a new stylus. I'd probably replace it altogether just to be safe even if it may not affect tracking. There's no way to know for sure. Or use this as an opportunity to try another type of cartridge or two...or three.
 
Go for a new cart. You should be able to pick up one that's at least as good as the Grado for $100 or less.
Grado, Shure, Ortofon, or Audio Technica would be good places to start.
 
Thanks for the replies. Now I'm in a black hole of cartridge research. The Shures seem to be popular for s-shaped tonearms like mine. I've also read that Grados don't like magnetic fields, and therefore might not like my DD turntable (although the Hitachi Unitorque motor seems very quiet and well-shielded).
 
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