How to Change the Needle on a Vinyl Player

The needle (or stylus) on a vinyl record player can go dull or even get broken. You will need to locate a replacement, by contacting the larger electronic stores first. If you can’t find one, then there are a couple of places on the internet that you can get styli. One is www.needlefinder.net , which is a good source for finding those hard to find needles. Another site is www.everythingradio.com/needle_charts.htm which is very helpful in identifying which stylus you need.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Turn off the stereo, and unplug the power cord to the turntable.

2. Lift the arm and remove the old needle. Most turntables have a needle in a cartridge, and that should just pop out. Some, however have the stylus attached with a small screw, remove the screw and then you should be able to remove the stylus.

3. Set the old needle aside, to be disposed of where it won’t hurt anyone. These are small and sharp.

4. Install the new stylus in exactly the same way you took the old one out. That is, if it has a cartridge, put it in the same way, i.e. needle pointing to the front. If yours has a screw, then be sure the screw is as tight as you can get it when you put it back.

5. Plug the power back in and turn on the stereo.

Resources

• A resource for finding the correct stylus
• Provides pictures of needles

[lisayoungblood]

on 7/24/2009 Thanks this is very helpful. I am trying to fix my sister's phonograph needle in time to surprise her next month.