How to Remove a Needle From a Turntable
Turntables use needles to pick up the embedded magnetic signals inside the grooves of records. The needle, or stylus for a record player is commonly composed of tool grade diamond. No turntable stylus is indestructible despite the material. A worn or cracked turntable needle will damage records with use. Stylus manufacturers commonly notate the number of hours each needle is expected to last for playing records. Turntable owners replace a stylus when recommended to avoid harming valuable records.
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Instructions
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1
Turn off the turntable and unplug the power cord. This is a precaution to avoid a shock or high voltage from a surge.
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Lift the arm of the record player and look directly under the forward end (the headshell). Lower your head to the arm level if necessary for a good view of the components.
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3
Pinch the sides of the plastic body that holds the turntable needle at the front of the arm between your thumb and index finger. The plastic piece is often bright red or blue.
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4
Pull the plastic body of the turntable stylus down and away from the arm until it comes off the cartridge.
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Tips & Warnings
Inspect the needle closely for wear. Discard and replace a stylus with visible cracks or a rounded point.
References
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