9 best turntable needles for needles

Turntable needles, also known as stylus or cartridges, are essential components of turntable systems used for playing vinyl records. They are a critical part of the audio playback process and play a significant role in the quality of sound reproduction. Here's what you should know about turntable needles:

Needle Types: There are two primary types of turntable needles: the stylus and the cartridge.
- Stylus: The stylus is the needle itself, which is usually made from a tiny diamond or other hard material.It is the part of the needle that physically makes contact with the grooves of the vinyl record. Styluses come in different shapes, including spherical and elliptical, which affect their tracking ability and sound quality.
- Cartridge: The cartridge is the housing that holds the stylus and connects to the tonearm of the turntable. Cartridges can be either moving magnet (MM) or moving coil (MC), each with its own set of characteristics. MM cartridges are more common and typically easier to replace.
Tracking and Sound Quality: The quality of a turntable needle can significantly impact the sound quality of your vinyl records. A high-quality stylus will track the grooves of a record accurately, reducing distortion and preserving the audio fidelity.
Replacement: Turntable needles have a limited lifespan and wear down over time with use. The frequency of replacement depends on factors like how often you play records and the quality of the needle. Regular maintenance, including cleaning the stylus and keeping records clean, can extend its life.
Compatibility: Not all needles are compatible with every turntable. Different turntables may require specific types of cartridges and styluses. It's crucial to check your turntable's user manual or consult with a knowledgeable audio technician to ensure you choose the right replacement needle.
Upgrades: Audiophiles often consider upgrading their turntable needles to improve sound quality. Upgrading to a higher-quality stylus or cartridge can provide enhanced detail, clarity, and overall audio performance.
Alignment: Proper alignment of the turntable cartridge and stylus is essential for accurate tracking and minimizing record wear. Some turntables have adjustable tonearms to facilitate correct alignment.
Anti-Skate: Many turntables come equipped with anti-skate mechanisms to prevent the stylus from sliding across the record surface, reducing wear and distortion.
Price Range: Turntable needles and cartridges are available at various price points, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end audiophile choices. The cost often correlates with the quality of materials and performance.
Installation: Replacing a turntable needle typically requires some technical skill. If you're not comfortable doing it yourself, it's advisable to seek assistance from a professional technician to ensure proper installation and alignment.

In summary, turntable needles are essential components of turntable systems used for playing vinyl records. They come in various types and qualities, with their choice significantly impacting the sound quality and longevity of your vinyl collection. It's important to select the right needle for your turntable and replace it as needed to maintain optimal audio performance.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best turntable needles for needles on the market

Gemini HDCN-15 Turntable Headshell and Cartridge (Silver)

Gemini

Based on 467 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Gemini HDCN-15 Silver DJ Head shell w/ Cartridge & Elliptical Stylus Needle, Gemini HDCN-15 Turntable Headshell and Cartridge (Silver)

sturdy silver body w/ tracking arm
/ Rubber washer for snug fit to tone arm /
Elliptical stylus for strong tracking / Stylus cover for extended life span
Country of Origin: China

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this fit a technics turntable sl-b2-xa
Answer:	It's a standard shell and meant to fit pretty much any tonearm.
Question:	Will this work witj Gemini XL
Answer:	As long as you have a standard "screw in" tone arm. This should be fine. I have a Gemini TT04 and I have no probs.
Question:	Will this work with a gemini d.j.q 1100 turntable for home listening
Answer:	Yes, it will work. However, if your original turntable does not have a pre-amp, you have to connect one before the main amp.
Question:	What weight setting is specified for this cartridge? got manual
Answer:	This type of cartridge usually is 1.5 to 2.0 on dj types they go 3 or higher and you set antiskid to the same as your tracking weight I always track as light as possible to prevent wear the reason dj use high tracking weight is to prevent the needle from jumping if your playing loud amplified bass it can also get feedback

Product features

Enjoy True, Satisfying Sound.

Experience true sound with the sturdy silver body and an elliptical stylus that delivers strong tracking. Comes pre-mounted and assembled out of the box.

Rubber Washer.

Comes with a rubber washer so the headshell snugs fit into the tone arm.

Play and Enjoy Right Away!

This headshell and cartridge assembly comes assembled out of the box. No mounting needed.

Comes with a Stylus Cover.

Ensures extended life span.

Victrola ITNP-LC1 3 Pack Turntable Replacement Needles for Various Record Players White

Victrola

Based on 452 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Victrola ITNP-LC1 3 Pack Turntable Replacement Needles for Various Record Players White

Compatible with ITCDS-6000, ITRR-501, ITUT-5000, ITVS-200B, ITVS-750, ITVS-750B, ITVS-760B, V50-200, VTA-200B, VTA-220B, VTA-300B, VTA-600B, VTA-750 & VTA-750B
3 pack Turntable Replacement needles
Works will all vinyl records; 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM
High quality ceramic needles - direct Victrola Replacement
Simple, effortless installation

User questions & answers

Question:	will this needle work on 1960"s Micromatic record player
Answer:	Yes
Question:	Are they diamond tip needles, and if not, does anyone know some diamond ones compatible with the suitcase victrola vsc-550 model players
Answer:	Google shows that it does. It's a Stylus.
Question:	Does this come with instructions on how to replace
Answer:	Yes it is.
Question:	Will these work for player model
Answer:	Dear Customer, Sorry we don't sell 24" long version of this grab bar at present. 18", 16" and 12" is available. Thank you

Product features

Victrola ITNP-LC1 3 Pack Turntable Replacement Needles

Victrola 3 pack turntable replacement needles for Model #s ITCDS-6000, ITRR-501, ITUT-5000, ITVS-200B, ITVS-750, ITVS-750B, ITVS-760B, V50-200, VSC-590BT, VTA-200B, VTA-220B, VTA-240B, VTA-245B, VTA-247B, VTA-270B, VTA-280B, VTA-290B, VTA-300B, VTA-320B, VTA-330B, VTA-370B, VTA-600B, VTA-750, VTA-750B, VTA-800B, VTA-810B (All Colors). These high quality ceramic needles will work with all vinyl record sizes (33 1/3, 45, or 78 RPM) and installation is simple and effortless.

Crosley NP1 Replacement Needle

Based on 794 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Crosley offers state-of-the art diamond stylus replacement needles, made of high-grade ABS plastic composites. Even better than the original, each needle provides thousands of rotations for extended playing time. Works with Crosley turntables: CR40 Mini-Turntable, CR42 Lancaster, CR43 Classic, CR44 Turntable Console, CR44CD Turntable Console, CR46 Empire, CR47 Classic, CR48 Decorative Turntable, CR49 Traveler, CR50 Traveler Radio Turntable, CR53 Wedge 3 Speed Turntable, CR54CD CD Turntable, CR6003A Echo, CR6005A Tech Turntable, CR6007A Tech Turntable, CR6008A Tech Turntable CD, CR66 Rochester, CR67 Grand Music Center, CR69 Metro Entertainment Center, CR70 Broadcaster, CR7002A Troubadour, CR704 Musician, CR7007A Patriarch, CR711 Autorama, CR712 Autorama CD, CR72 Mission Stack-O-Matic (MFG 06/07 to present), CR73 Conductor, CR74 Musician, CR77 CD Turntable, CR78 Entertainer, CR79(GS79) Entertainer Plus Recorder, CR80(GS80) Gold Series Entertainer, CR83 Centurion Stack-O-Matic (MFG 06/07 to present), CR84 Varsity Stack-O-Matic (MFG 06/07 to present), CR85 Collegiate Stack-O-Matic (MFG 06/07 to present), CR86 Bandmaster Stack-O-Matic (MFG 06/07 to present), CR87 Queen Anne Console, CR87-S Queen Anne Console Stack-O-Matic (MFG 06/07 to present), CR89 Traveler Stack-O-Matic (MFG 06/07 to present). (Not for use with 1st generation Crosley Stack-O-Matic record changers or 2nd generation CR248 CD Recorder or CD Recorder products.)

Genuine Crosley replacement needle
Diamond stylus needle
ABS plastic composition
Plays 3 Speeds - 33 1/3, 45 and 78 RPM Records
Needle provides thousands of rotations for extended playing time

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this fit my cr8016a-gy
Answer:	On their actual website, the Alpha Glass comes with a limited lifetime warranty, so I'd say it's safe to assume that the ones they're selling on Amazon also come with a limited lifetime warranty.
Question:	Will this work on the Crosley Executive Player that calls for NP6 on the box
Answer:	Very case friendly. I have an otterbox case on my phone and the fit was perfect, no overlap between screen protector or case. Im not sure how it would fit with other cases but i imagine it would fit just fine.
Question:	Does it fit the Model CR48PH
Answer:	Edges only as the Otter people noted below. Touch issues yes, but I got used to it after a month. However, I dropped my phone last night, the screen protector fell off, and no more adhesive. Sigh. As I love my Otterbox, I'll probably buy another.
Question:	does it fit the CR8005A turntable
Answer:	Yes. I asked a question yesterday that hasn't been answered. It doesn't seem to fit my screen right, it seems too small.

Parts Express ST-17D BSR/Fisher Type Replacement Stylus Needle

Based on 223 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Replacement diamond phono styli.

Replaces the followung BSR needles: ST-16, ST-17, ST-18, ST-19 AND SINGLE Tip ST-20, ST-21
Used in the following BSR cartridges: SC5H, SC7M, SC8H, SC10H, SC12H
Speeds: All
Tip Material: .0007 Diamond Tip; Radius: .003 Synthetic Sapphire

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this fit St17D
Answer:	I assume you mean marker and one of them lasts a long time marking patterns on glass-make sure you always firmly recap it when you're done.
Question:	Will this work for Sears Silvertone
Answer:	I didn't use this on paper but in a glass and it worked great. I would buy just regular whiteout. Its also less expensive .
Question:	Would this work in replacement to a st
Answer:	It worked for me!
Question:	Do you know which stylus I need to upgrade the one that comes with the Banpa ceramic cartrige
Answer:	I probably wouldn't put them on my skin. Nowhere on the label does it say non-toxic, and oil based would penetrate skin.

Numark CC-1 | Premium, Ultra-Robust DJ Cartridge (Headshell & Stylus) for Turntables - Perfect for Mixing & Scratching

Numark

Based on 742 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A versatile cartridge with Numark value, the CC-1 is suitable for every DJ style. It features the ideal combination of high output and superior tracking, letting you spin or scratch with consistent quality and fidelity. The CC-1 offers DJs superior performance in every situation with a sleek Numark design that's robust and easy to handle. Specifications Frequency response: 20 to 22,000Hz Output: 6mV Channel separation nominal: 28dB DC resistance: 430 ohms/ch Inductance: 400mH/ch Weight: 18.0g Channel balance: within 1.5dB Tracking force: 3g to 6g Recommended load: 47 kΩ 200pf Stylus tip: fine circular diamond Application: high versatility and skip resistance

Ready for Anything - Professional, highly-versatile cartridge suitable for every DJ style
Consistent Quality, Enhanced Fidelity - High-output and enhanced tracking ideal for spinning and scratch enthusiasts alike
Style-Driven Design - Sleek, slim-line design that's robust and easy-to-handle
Hear Every Detail - Full range frequency response from 20-20,000 Hz
Robust, Reliable - Precision-engineered circular diamond stylus tip

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this cartridge work with the numark tt1600 turntables
Answer:	My guess would be no, not for a diffuser. It is meant for the bath water.
Question:	will this work on a Numark TT
Answer:	No it doesn’t lather. It is a body oil. You apply after shower while skin is still wet.
Question:	I have a TT 1520 with a stanton discmaster stylus. Will it fit
Answer:	Yes, it’s just like baby oil!
Question:	Will this work with a numark ttusb
Answer:	Yes the velocity of the product is thick shake well before using vigorously that will help tremendously. Thank you for shopping at best hair products 1 2 3. Sandy

Audio-Technica AT85EP Turntable Cartridge with Elliptical Stylus P Mount

Audio-Technica

Based on 663 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This 0. 3 x 0. 7 mil elliptical cartridge fits P-Mount turntables. It features precision engineering and many other features found in the more expensive Audio-Technica cartridges.

0. 3 x 0. 7 mil elliptical cartridge designed specifically to fit linear format P-mount turntables
Features Audio-Technica’s unique dual moving magnet construction
Para-toroidal coil construction assures an excellent sonic clarity and wide channel separation
Compatible with linear tracking turntables with T4P plug-in connectors, no matter the brand

User questions & answers

Question:	Could you inform me if it works for a Marantz 6170 turntable? Thank you
Answer:	That particular turntable has a 1/2 inch mount headshell. You should have no problem finding an Audio Technica cartridge to fit it. It's the most common type of cartridge mount.
Question:	Will this work on a jvc al-a
Answer:	I’m looking at pictures of that tt online and it looks like a rebadged replica of the Technics deck I use this cart on. It’s pretty clear it takes a p-mount cart. Not only will it work; it’ll sound good too.
Question:	will this work on Technicd sl bd
Answer:	Yes. Is turn table requires a P mount cartridge and the AT85 is a P mount cartridge.
Question:	Will this work for my technics sl-j
Answer:	Yes, thank you.

Product features

Audio-Technica AT85EP

This 0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical cartridge fits P-mount turntables. It features precision engineering and many other features found in the more expensive Audio-Technica cartridges.

The AT85EP allows owners of Technics, Hitachi, Pioneer and similar linear tracking turntables with T4P plug-in connectors to enjoy the high-fidelity sound that only Audio-Technica can offer.

Designed specifically for the linear format, the AT85EP features Audio-Technica’s unique dual moving magnet construction. The dual magnet system is combined with the para-toroidal coil construction to assure an excellent sonic clarity and wide channel separation.

Crosley NP4 Replacement Needle

Based on 246 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The NP4 replacement needle is used specifically for certain CD recording units. Made of high-grade ABS plastic composites, it provides thousands of rotations and a generous amount of optimal playing time. Works with Crosley turntables: CR24-003A Music Writer, CR2402A Performer, CR2404A Analog Songwriter, CR2405A Director, CR2406A Director, CR2413A Memory Master II, CR2415A Cannon, CR246 Director, CR249 Keepsake, CR6001A Archiver (MFG up to 05/12), CR6002A Revolution (MFG up to 05/12), CR6004A Oval, CR6012A Audiophile, CR6249A (silver) Keepsake (MFG up to 05/12).

Genuine Crosley replacement needle
Diamond stylus needle
ABS plastic composition
Plays 78 RPM Records
Needle provides thousands of rotations for extended playing time

User questions & answers

Question:	is this needle for a model cr2405 phono
Answer:	Hello, No, this is not tempered glass. Our IQ Shields are made out of Thermoplastic Urethane or TPU. TPU is a highly resistant material which melds high response sensitivity, self healing durability, and non-yellowing, optical transparency into a single layer of flexible yet tough film. The IQ Shield is flexible to absorb impact, it easily molds onto the curve of your device for the most seamless fit and stretches to self heal any scratches, smudges or indentations. All IQ Shield products have a Lifetime warranty which covers from wear and tear of your shield to installation errors. Simply message us directly if you require any further assistance or have any other questions. -IQ Shield Customer Support.
Question:	I have a tyler turn table ttt 602 i think either a np 1 or np 4 is correct replacement? do you know which
Answer:	Works fine
Question:	Would this needle fit a crosley cruiser turbtable
Answer:	This item is a protective film and stays on very well. It's not thick like some of the glass screen protectors that tend to lift up easily. I've used this brand with many phones and many cases and have never had a single issue of it getting in the way or coming up. I prefer the film design of this over a glass plate. I find it works great and its always protected my phone screens
Question:	Can this needle be use on a Crosley CR6249A turntable model
Answer:	No... Didn't you know when you bought the 10+ the screen is bigger then a 10? So with that common knowledge And the fact it does not say 10+ in the title.

NEW DIAMOND NEEDLE STYLUS FOR SHURE M44 M44-7 M447 4759-D7C 759-DE

xiao

Based on 104 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Replaces the following needles: Shure N44-7 N44 N44-C N44C V2NE ANY Shure N44 series Radio Shack 970-1229 970-1230 420-2895 759-d7c sed in the following cartridge models: Shure M44 M44CS M44-7 M44C M44MA M44MR M44MB M98/A M44C M44MC M44E M44EM M55E M80E AMC50E Detailed Description This is a brand new Aftermarket replacement turntable needle.

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this fit my m44g
Answer:	Although I have no experience with dreads, I would think so. I love the condition it leaves my hair in, and the light, natural scent is one which doesn't bother my asthma. It takes very little shampoo to do the job and doesn't "strip" the hair. Leaves it soft, but not limp. I use the mint or rosemary scent.
Question:	Will this fit pioneer pl-115d turntable
Answer:	I have used $80 bottles of sulphate free shampoo and this product. I have noticed no difference in this drawing my color out faster. In fact, it cleans my scalp better.
Question:	Would this fit realistic r1000e
Answer:	Sodium coco -sulfate IS the 4th ingredient!!! Not good and YES it has it. LOTS obviously.
Question:	Will this fit a Pioneer PL
Answer:	Contains sulfates. "Coco sulphate" see link for more info. http://www.hebebotanicals.co.nz/sodium-coco-sulfate-another-synthetic-detergent/

Gold plated Headshell, mount, cartridge and stylus, needle for Pioneer PL100, PL112D, PL115D, PL117D, PL120, PL300, PL400, PL510, PL514, PL514X, PL550, PL570, PL1170, MADE IN ENGLAND

AudioOrigin

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Great Aesthetics – MIRROR GOLD PLATED with Brass fittings ****************** Assembled by hand using a world renowned AT dual magnet cartridge producing unbelievable quality for its price ****************** FURUKAWA 5N SILVER LITZ CARTRIDGE WIRES with transparent PTFE Teflon insulation for a huge improvement in sound quality over standard OXF Copper – REGARDED AS THE BEST AVAILABLE (Silver conducts signals faster and with lower distortion than Oxygen free copper)****************** BRASS CARTRIDGE BOLTS are sonically superior to aluminium or steel and add additional mass just where it is needed ****************** Assembled and shipped from the UK.

Made to order in England exclusively by AudioOrigin
Top Quality Audio Technica Cartridge, Pure rich, warm sound
High Quality transparent FURUKAWA 5N Pure Soft Annealed Silver Litz Cartridge wires – regarded as the best available – see product description below
Exceptional low and high frequency delivery, superb sound reproduction
PL-100, PL-112D, PL-115D, PL-117D, PL-120, PL-300, PL-400, PL-510, PL-514, PL-514X, PL-550, PL-570, PL-1170