The Best Record Player Needles
Whether you have a well-used turntable or a brand new vinyl player, there are lots of factors that impact the sound that you hear. One factor that's often overlooked is the needle, also known as the stylus. Essentially the nerve center of the whole sound production, this little metal piece "reads" the grooves of the record and transmits that sound to the turntable. So while your surround sound speakers may be new, if your needle is worn out, then your tunes won't be as enjoyable. To help you out, we've come up with our list of top turntable styluses available today, whether you're looking for a cheap replacement option or a premium contender.
Victrola ITNP-LC1 Turntable Replacement Needles
Versatile vinyl vibes
When it comes to finding the best replacement parts for music players, a universal fit is key. Unless you’re a seasoned audiophile that knows the ins and outs of your setup, you’re probably just looking for something that works out of the box. Fortunately, this set of three replacement styluses by Victrola is designed to do just that. Compatible with over 14 types of turntable models, these needles will get you listening to your favorite record again in no time. Best of all, this particular stylus works on all different vinyl speeds, from 33 1/3 to 78 RPM options.
Pros:
- Includes three replacement needles
- Made of durable ceramic
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Sound quality is slightly worse than other needles due to the lack of diamond tip
Ideal Swan Record Player Needle
Convenience for less cost
Just because you paid a lot for a good turntable doesn’t mean you need to break the bank every time the stylus gets worn out. This is especially the case if you’re just looking to have a few backup options on hand in case of an emergency. Here’s where a super affordable multi-pack of replacement styluses like this option by Ideal Swan can come in handy. Made of aluminum for a clearer, smoother sound, these needles have high output and good durability over time, packaged in a protective cover to keep them safe until you need them. Best of all, you get four for one incredibly low price.
Pros:
- Also available in a six-pack
- No booster needed for assembly
- Compatible with most turntables
Cons:
- Needles may skip grooves on certain records
banpa Record Player Needle
Simple and straightforward
Getting our first record player is an exciting but scary experience. While we love spinning our favorite records, we’re often terrified of damaging the delicate needle in the process. That’s why having extra styluses is so important when you’re first starting out. For a beginner’s set of replacement needles, you can’t go wrong with this set by banpa. With four extra styluses in addition to the main cartridge, this set stands out because of its super easy installation that doesn’t require a booster. Switching it out takes less than a few minutes, and you’ll get 200-300 hours of playtime on each one afterward.
Pros:
- Comes safely packaged in a box for needle protection
- Includes four extra styluses
- Great cost value
Cons:
- You may need to counterbalance the tonearm if your player tracks heavier than the 4 grams of this stylus
Audio-Technica ATN3600L Replacement Stylus
Get the sound you love again
We’re probably not alone in our love of Audio-Technica music equipment. Founded in 1962, this Japanese company has taken the record-playing world by storm in recent years with its selection of affordable, high-quality turntables. But as popular as they are, if you own one of their incredible players, then you may have had a hard time finding a suitable replacement needle. Thankfully, you can go right to the source to get that great sound back. The ATN3600L Replacement Stylus is compatible with the brand’s most popular models, including the AT-LP60, the AT-LP60USB, and several Sony models. But regardless of which player it goes on, you can be sure that this needle will have the sound quality you need thanks to its low inner-groove-distortion design.
Pros:
- Simple assembly and disassembly
- Impressive sound quality
- Long-lasting play
Cons:
- The stylus is fragile so it needs to be treated with care
Ortofon 2M Red Moving Magnet Cartridge
A more precise fit
Once you start training your ear on the nuances of high-quality sound, it’s hard to go back. And if you’ve just scored the ultimate high-quality vinyl, you probably want the best listening experience possible. We love the Ortofon 2M Red Moving Magnet Cartridge because it’s an all-purpose cartridge that gives you the most dynamic, consistent sound with just the right amount of warmth. Of course, the secret to this incredible sound lies in the stylus inside. Unlike other cartridges that feature the less expensive conical stylus, this baby has an elliptical diamond stylus. This type of needle makes more precise contact with the record resulting in less distortion, improved frequency and phase response, and an overall better sound.
Pros:
- Universal fit cartridge
- Easily upgraded to the Ortofon Stylus 2M Blue
- Also plays single-channel audio
Cons:
- Higher cost
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know my stylus needs replacing?
Generally, if you notice any changes in the sound quality, it’s time to look at the needle. This is especially the case if you notice more skipping or bouncing on the record than usual. Also, if you see any black residue on the needle itself, this is a good indicator that it’s been overused.
How often do I need to replace my needle?
The more you use your record player, the more worn out the needle will get, which can damage your records over time. Experts recommend switching your stylus every 150-200 hours of playtime, but if you get a more expensive needle, you can often go longer than that.
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