Fortunately Atmasphere I have not seen an incorrectly mounted stylus for a long time. I always view a new cartridge under magnification to make sure the stylus is generally in the right position and shape before I mount it. In the old days, late 60's early 70's one in three cartridges would have an incorrectly angled cantilever or wacky stylus. Hopefully this is not going on with today's inexpensive cartridges. The more expensive cartridges have been excellent in my experience.