The difference in what you hear and what the seller hears could be a matter of what part of the groove your cartridge is tracking. Different stylus shapes mean they contact the groove at different points. So, the record could actually be damaged and the seller would not know it because he is tracking the undamaged portion. It may not be the case that your cartridge is worn or defective. If it sounds good on all of your other records, I think you don't have a problem.
Microscope for stylus inspection
What power of magnification is adequate to determine stylus wear?
I purchased a 30X hand-held scope and checked my stylus.
It looks "as-new" i.e., like a perfect cone (Sumiko Blue Point Special).
There are no obvious flats on the sides and all seems to be fine.
I could see where the technician polished the sides and left the 0 and 180 degrees points a little "rough" as they never touch the vinyl.
Does this sound O. K. or do I need a more powerful scope?
I purchased a 30X hand-held scope and checked my stylus.
It looks "as-new" i.e., like a perfect cone (Sumiko Blue Point Special).
There are no obvious flats on the sides and all seems to be fine.
I could see where the technician polished the sides and left the 0 and 180 degrees points a little "rough" as they never touch the vinyl.
Does this sound O. K. or do I need a more powerful scope?
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- 11 posts total
- 11 posts total