At What Point is the Needle Damaging Records?


I have used my Denon 110 between 1-5 hours a day for the past three and a half years, and lately I noticed the highs are beginning to sound a little muted. Could I damage my records by not replacing the cartridge right away?
jmoog08
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You are a little overdue, the damage might've been done already, hopefuly not.
Of course, the needle always damages records but let's not take this subject to the extreme.
Have you examined the stylus with a loop or magnifying glass. Perhaps you simply need to adjust VTF/VTA. I have my catridge (Transfiguration Temper W) more than 5 years and listen nearly as often as you do and highs are as sparkling as when I first installed it.
It may not be stylus wear but rather the suspension giving way. I don't know how to check that, but I agree with Stew, check the VTF/VTA first.