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Build-up on stylus - any new cures?

Hi, I run a restored TD-124 and SME 3009 series II, a Shure V-15 III, and a JICO SAS stylus. The last record or two I played sounded a bit off and I wondered whether I had managed to wear out the stylus. Using a pocket microscope I bought for this, I was able to see that the stylus tip still has good "shoulders," so that much is good. However, it has an astonishing amount of sparkly white build-up around the diamond.

There is a thread on here from 2014 with good advice, and I've used slices from a magic eraser for some years now, occasionally with alcohol. Usually I clean the stylus every other record side with a dry ME. Any new thoughts on removing this junk?
One 2014 poster suggested gently dragging the stylus on the ME back to front. I have never done that but would like to hear if anyone thinks that is safe for the tip? Hopefully there is an inexpensive solution, thanks!
mixermarkwilliams
elliottbnewcombjr
5,460 posts
 
Nice setup, I had that TT and Arm with V15VxMR, loved it.

You can remove the stylus to thoroughly clean it, and verify you haven't damaged the cantilever.

Are you sure of azimuth and VTA, tracking force and anti-skate?

gel: my friend used this gel type, seemed worrisome, but a light tough does a good job for infrequent use

https://www.amazon.com/AUDIOPHILE-DEALER-Turntable-Stylus-Cleaner/dp/B08617QDVV/ref=sr_1_5?dchild=1&...

bargain version

https://www.amazon.com/Material-Multi-Functional-Universal-Household-Transparent/dp/B0859TMHV5/ref=s...=
slaw's avatar
slaw
21,601 posts
 
If your records aren't properly cleaned/stored to begin with, you will always have the same issue.
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,810 posts
 
Up and down for Magic Eraser. Never drag.
4krowme's avatar
4krowme
542 posts
 
 I am really leery of using a product such as Blu-Tak that is not even designed for such a purpose. It IS designed to stick, and when removed from glass, there is a tell tale mark left behind. That would be residue.
joenies's avatar
joenies
258 posts
 
Agree with @noromance  only up and down.
The other day I notice a  piece of lint on my needle. I tried my dry cartridge brush, then Last Stylus cleaner, another fine brush, ME, the lint was still there. Used an older US stylus cleaner that removed the lint. Never had something stick to my needle like that.
 I should have tried my Cardas Frequency Sweep test album. Side 1 tracks 2a, 2b and 2c. Those tracks supposedly will also US clean your needle. I uses that maybe once a month. Used it 2 days before I noticed the lint or fuzz or whatever it was. It’s also a good Test album.
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