Could anybody confirm that this is a 78 rpm stylus please?

Hi, 

Would this do?

I mean, is it possible to replace the stylus assembly with this, by pulling out the old one from the cap? How?

Thanks.

I can't tell from the photo what sort of stylus it is.

To replace the stylus, locate the domed, slotted screw underneath, loosen it by 1/2 turn, the stylus part pulls off.

You can get a replacement stylus from link.

The same stylus fits a SP 10, SP 10 A, SP 12, SP 12 A, SP 14 and SP 14 A.

What type of arm is it on? Is VTA set correctly?

Some useful information is available link.

Thanks for that. The cart sits on a Beogram 3000, VTA set somewhere between 1.5 and 2 grammes. I tried a little less but it doesn't make much of a difference. 

I found a company in Surrey which can repair it for £65, which is about the same as Axel in Germany who will do it for €80. It's called Expert Stylus and Cartridge company. They don't have a website, but I read very positive comments on forums, like 

No problem.

I was talking about Vertcal Tracking Angle not Tracking Force. The arm on the 1970'S Beogram 3000 should be fine.

Don't know the company but the price sounds ok compared to other options.

It should be a nice cartridge when you get it sorted.

I see the link but the stylus will not fit an SP15 as this is an early version of the MMC4000 and the stylus is not replaceable.

Peter?

Yes?

Hi Jacques,

If I may jump in here...

My first guess at the cause would be dirty vinyl. A Disco-Antistat washer would sort that out and come in handy anyway. I prefer not to use their liquid, I filter the distilled water from the tumble dryer, add a few drops of washing up liquid and photographic wetting agent to the wash and then rinse in pure distilled water. Pat dry with kitchen roll and leave to air dry. NEVER use hard tap water.

Second guess would be poor quality 1970's vinyl. The thin wobbly stuff. Not a lot to be done about that.

Third and last guess would be that the cartridge shell isn't anchored tightly. The little screw that fixes it to the cartridge isn't up to much.

I've had quite a few if these under the microscope - couldn't see any wear on any. I reckon the suspension will give out before the diamond is scrap. I'd be surprised and disappointed if this one needs a repair.

That is not a 78 rpm stylus - they're altogether bigger.

Replacing the stylus assembly can't be done without breaking things. The best you'll end up with is an empty shell with the plastic cowl glued back on. And some bits. If that is an SP6-7 stylus you've shown us then it will snap onto the cartridge body, and an empty shell will slide over and keep it in place. This is last chance nothing-to-lose stuff though - try very hard not to go there.

Good luck,
Steve