Topic: Need help finding a new turntable needle ...

[evilchris]

I picked up a console stereo over the weekend, but it sounds like it needs a new needle.

The music is very faint, and sounds sort of hollow.  It's almost like the needle isn't settling into the groove ... is it too dull?  Either way, I think it's a problem with the needle, so I'm trying to track down a replacement for a decent cost.  If anyone can help me out, that'd be awesome.

Photos are attached.  Thanks.

[evilchris]

A few more ...

[evilchris]

you might need to adjust the tracking weight of the tonearm.

Any idea how I might do that?  Thanks!

[Church-Audio]

you might need to adjust the tracking weight of the tonearm.

Any idea how I might do that?  Thanks!

There could be a screw on the back of top of the tone arm housing that can be adjusted. The needle and the cartridge should really be replaced on that rp. Because I am sure they are both on the way out.

[som]

good point, chris.
My folks had a similar console. I used it extensively, which drove them crazy. They finally got me a bedroom system, and that was the last time I looked at one of those consoles.

Brings back memories....hunkering down with a pile of Yes, Pink Floyd, and Todd Rundgren albums, listening to my folks old console system!

[evilchris]

There could be a screw on the back of top of the tone arm housing that can be adjusted. The needle and the cartridge should really be replaced on that rp. Because I am sure they are both on the way out.

Hrm ... there's a screw with markings of "2", "4", and "6", but adjusting it didn't seem to do much.  I'll take a closer look tonight.

I didn't see an obvious "cartidge" anywhere, either.  Is that going to be at the head of the tone arm?  I'm pretty ignorant when it comes to turntables. 

Thanks for your help, guys.  I really appreciate it.

[Tim]

yep, the head where the needle attaches is known as the cartrdige or cart

very cool score. I want my grandparents console system but I haven't had anywhere to keep it

[evilchris]

wtf ... there was a useful link here, but it looks like all of moke's stuff got deleted.

anyone have that link? 

[flipp]

hadn't read this thread before so don't know if this is the link moke had posted or not but one of my favorite sites for turntable/cartridges is needledoctor

http://www.needledoctor.com/

[it-goes-to-eleven]

Sweet!   That is a beast.  I love those old, purely mechanical stacker mechanisms.  My Grandmother has a monster Zenith in mint condition..  It lives in the livingroom and really needs a good home..

Even if you sort out the tracking force, it would be a good idea to evaluate the needle under a magnifier to make sure it isn't worn.   I've heard a worn needle can damage the record grooves.  Too much tracking force is also bad.