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AT OC9 tracking problem. Worn out?

I've got an Audio-Technica OC-9 that I've had for just about a year now. Recently I've been having some tracking problems on the innermost tracks on a couple records that are new (or almost new)and blemish-free. I've looked at the records under magnification and been unable to see any marks. The stylus is well cleaned with an Onzow Zero-Dust usually every record, and with fluid about once a day or so. I spin a lot and I'm going to guess that the cartridge has somewhere between 1000 - 1200 hours on it. The alignment on the cartridge is spot on and the VTF is set properly at 1.75G.

Can anyone tell me what the ordinary useful life is for one of these cartridges? Any other thoughts on other things I should try?
grimace
grimace OP
624 posts
 
I agree with you're point. At $350 its the cheap enough to just replace it. Although I'll probably try a different cartridge of some sort.
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
Grimace,

Can you describe the symptoms a little more? You said you have "tracking problems" on a few LP's, but didn't say exactly what makes you think so. What are you hearing? Knowing this might inform the diagnosis...
grimace OP
624 posts
 
Tracking problems are skips where there are no mars in the vinyl. I've got this happening on a couple of records - both relatively new high-quality pressings. Its only happening on the far inside tracks. I'm going to go play them on a buddy's table to see if its the vinyl, but I don't think it is.

Also, I'm noticing elevated background noise on deadwax, between tracks for example, again on newish vinyl.
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
Thanks for clarifying. When you said "tracking problems" I doubt anyone envisioned actual skipping. That's a very different thing.

I'd be astonished if putting 1000 hours on any cartridge could cause it to start skipping, when it didn't do so before. It seems more likely that something needs adjustment.

When this happens, does it skip inward or outward?
grimace OP
624 posts
 
I think its fixed. Actually, Bill figured it out. The anti-skate was way over-cooked. I never thought to look at it because I hadn't adjusted it. I must have brushed it with a dust cloth or something and turned it way up. the little wheel is ideally placed to do that. Deadwax is quieter too. I think the stylus was rubbing against the groove wall instead of sitting in it.

Thanks for everyone's help!
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