The stylus, often known as the needle, is an important part of any turntable. It connects the record player to the vinyl record. Without it, a record player is nothing more than a spinning platter. 

The entry-level turntables nowadays include a stylus, as well as everything else needed to play records. They’re essentially plug-and-play machines. All you have to do is put the vinyl disc in, gently drop the stylus, and ready yourself for a musical treat.

However, a stylus, like anything else, is vulnerable to wear and tear over time. The entire process of the turntable is the friction between the stylus and the record which makes the music play. The stylus will eventually become dull and worn out, and you will need to replace it at some point.

Hissing And Crackling Sounds

If your stylus is old or damaged, your records won’t sound as well. You will hear more distortion, crackling, static, and overall fuzziness. If your recordings aren’t sounding as well as they used to, it’s time for an upgrade.

These sounds are mainly in the background and may come off as an overemphasis on “s” sounds.

The record can also be the issue, so you should head over to your nearest record shop and try sampling a disc, and if it comes out clean, your stylus is most likely the problem.

Crooked Parts

This one is a little easier to spot.

If the needle appears to be bent, you should replace it before listening to anything. With a hand in this condition, you could severely ruin records. Thus, getting a replacement stylus is a tiny expense compared to the potential damage your old stylus could do.

Skipping Forward and Bouncing

Similar to the previous one, this is also relatively easy to spot.

It’s most likely due to age or damage if the needle starts skipping and bouncing along with the record. It not only affects the sound quality but it poses a risk to your precious collection.

Accumulating Residue On The Tip

Dirt, grime, and dust pile on in different circumstances, and you need to remove them with a proper cleaning solution made for record players. Maintaining the tip should be every week, and if it remained untouched for months or years, you’re better off getting a replacement.

Possible Used Stylus

Purchasing a second-hand turntable is dangerous to your vinyl albums. You can never be sure about the stylus’s condition or how the previous owner used it. The deformed or worn-out stylus could cause scratches and more detrimental harm. It is not worth the risk.

Be sure to get a new stylus only from verified sellers and trusted record shops.

How To Extend The Life Of A Stylus?

The most basic technique to prolong the life of a turntable’s stylus is to look after it regularly. Anything that causes excessive friction, such as dust or dirt caught in the grooves of a record, can harm the stylus, thus degrading the audio quality.

That’s about all the symptoms that a malfunctioning stylus can show. If you experience any of these, it should be about time for a replacement.