Turntables are making a comeback in a big way, and with vinyl sales on the rise, it’s no wonder. If you’re new to the world of turntables and record players, you may be wondering what all the different types of needles are. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of needles available and which one is right for you!
What is a record player needle?
A record player needle, also known as a stylus or phono cartridge, is an electromechanical transducer that reads analog audio signals from the grooves of a vinyl record.
The needle is typically made of diamond and is attached to a cantilever which transmits the vibrations created by the groove walls to the coils inside the cartridge.
The coils convert the mechanical energy of the stylus into an electrical signal which can then be amplified by a stereo system. The shape and hardness of the needle, along with other factors, play an important role in sound quality.
Record player needle materials.
A record player needle is an important part of the sound reproduction process. The needle contacts the vinyl, reads the music engraved on it and produces sound. The material composition of a record player needle can affect its performance.
The most common material used to make needles is diamond. Diamond needles are strong and durable but may be too expensive for some users. Diamond needles are designed to last thousands of hours, so they provide a long-lasting solution.
Other materials used in record player needle manufacture include sapphire and ceramic. Sapphire is a hard mineral that is known for its durability and clarity. Ceramic needles are made from a combination of cobalt and iron that can provide a more affordable option than diamond.
Types of Record Player Needles.
Record player needles come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials.
1. Elliptical.
What is Elliptical stylus?
The elliptical stylus is the most common type of record player needle used today. It is composed of two contact points, one with a larger radius than the other, which are arranged in an ellipse shape and set inside a cantilever tube.
This design allows for improved tracking accuracy as it can better hold onto the grooves in vinyl records. It also allows for a more balanced sound reproduction as it produces less distortion and has the ability to pick up more subtleties in the music.
The elliptical stylus is generally considered the preferred choice of needle among audiophiles due to its superior sound quality.
2. Hyper elliptical
What is a Hyper elliptical stylus?
A hyper elliptical stylus is an upgrade to the standard elliptical design. It features a shape that more closely replicates that of the original groove, giving better audio quality, less distortion and improved tracking.
The improved accuracy means less potential wear on both your records and the needle itself. They also tend to be more expensive than other types of needles.
Because of the improved accuracy and durability, many audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts prefer hyper elliptical needles. This type of stylus will also help prolong the life of your records by keeping them in better condition.
Additionally, it is a great choice if you plan to play old or rare records as they are less likely to damage delicate grooves.
Overall, a hyper elliptical stylus is the best choice for those who want the highest-quality sound from their vinyl records and don’t mind paying a bit extra for it. It is also ideal if you are playing older or rare records as it reduces the risk of damage to them.
Hyper elliptical needles offer greater accuracy and improved tracking, resulting in less distortion and improved audio quality. For this reason, they are highly recommended for audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts alike.
3. Micro-ridge
What is a Micro-ridge stylus?
A micro-ridge stylus is a specialized type of record player needle designed to play vinyl records. It has an extremely small, precise diamond tip that rides in the groove of a record, picking up all of the intricate details of the sound waves and transferring them to your speaker system.
This type of stylus can provide superior sound quality when compared to other types of styli. Micro-ridge needles are also known for their durability and longevity, making them a great choice for those who want to enjoy their records for many years to come.
4. Spherical
What is a Spherical stylus?
A Spherical stylus is the most common type of needle found on record players. It features a rounded, dome-shaped tip that makes contact with the grooves of the vinyl record.
The spherical design allows for a wider area of contact and therefore causes less damage to the vinyl surface than other types of needles. This makes it an ideal choice for record players that are used frequently.
Additionally, the spherical tip helps to reduce noise and distortion while playing the record. The sound quality of a Spherical stylus is typically good but may not be as detailed or precise as more specialized needle types.
This makes it an ideal choice for casual listeners who just want to enjoy some music without worrying about sound quality.
Spherical styluses are generally the least expensive type of needle and can last a long time if taken care of, making them a good choice for budget-minded audiophiles.
How to choose the right type of needle.
When you are looking for the right type of needle, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost is the size of the needle, which will depend on what type of fabric you plan to sew with it.
Fabric weight and thread size should also be taken into account when selecting a needle. Needles come in a variety sizes ranging from very fine to extra-large.
The type of stitch you plan to make will also affect the type of needle you should choose. For instance, if you are making a straight stitch, you may want to opt for a sharp point needle with a slim shaft so that it can easily penetrate lighter fabrics without damaging them.
On the other hand, if you are making a decorative stitch, an overlock needle with a larger eye may be more appropriate.
The materials used in the construction of the needle are also important when choosing the right type. Generally speaking, needles made from carbon steel are stronger and sharper than those made from stainless steel. However, stainless steel needles tend to last longer and resist rusting and corrosion.
Finally, consider your own preferences when selecting a needle. Do you prefer the feel of a bigger eye? Does it come with an ergonomic handle that makes it easier to grip?
Do you need a needle with specialized features such as an anti-glide coating or a chrome finish? These are all factors that should be taken into account when choosing the right type of needle.
Do needles make a difference in vinyl?
Absolutely! The quality of your listening experience depends on the type of needle and cartridge you use. Needles play a vital role in providing optimal playback by creating contact between the stylus tip and grooves on the record.
This contact allows for vibrations that are picked up by the cartridge, then converted into an electrical signal sent to your amplifier or speakers.
The better quality the needle, the more accurate and dynamic the sound reproduction will be. Different needles are designed for different types of records – some work best with older or worn discs and others excel on newer ones.
Furthermore, cartridges come in a range of shapes, sizes and materials that can further enhance your listening experience. A good cartridge will ensure the needle glides smoothly, accurately and precisely over the grooves.
What kind of needle is best for record player?
The type of needle you need for a record player depends on the cartridge that is mounted in the headshell. The two most common are Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC).
MM cartridges are generally easier to use as they have higher output levels compared to MC models, so if you’re just starting out with vinyl it might be best to stick with an MM cartridge.
It is important to note that some turntables may have pre-mounted cartridges, so it’s always best to check the specs of your record player before buying a new needle.
Moving Magnet (MM) needles are most commonly used in budget audio systems and offer excellent sound quality for a relatively low price. MM needles are pre-mounted in the headshell and use a small magnet to move a stylus along the record grooves. MM needles tend to be more resistant to wear and tear, making them a great option for casual listeners.
Moving Coil (MC) cartridges are typically used in higher end audio systems as they offer superior sound quality. MC cartridges use a small coil of wire instead of a magnet to move the stylus, creating higher output levels and better sound quality.
However, they are also more sensitive to wear and tear than MM needles, so if you’re an avid listener it might be best to invest in an MC cartridge.
How do you choose a record player needle size?
One of the most important factors when selecting a record player needle size is the type of vinyl you will be playing. Different types of records require different needles to ensure optimal sound quality.
Generally, 78 RPM shellac records use a 3 mil conical stylus, 45 and 33 1/3 RPM records typically use an elliptical or spherical tip, and 78 RPM records may use either a 3 mil or 2 mil conical stylus.
When selecting a record player needle size, it’s important to match the needle type to the specific record you are playing. If you are playing an old 78 RPM shellac record, it is best to opt for a 3 mil conical stylus.
If you are playing a 33 1/3 RPM record, a spherical tip is generally the best choice. For 45 RPM records, there is no one-size-fits-all needle type; however, an elliptical or conical tip may be suitable.
It is also important to keep in mind that different needles can produce different audio qualities. Conical needles tend to offer the most accurate sound reproduction, while spherical tips tend to add warmth and clarity to recordings. Elliptical tips are somewhere in between, offering a balanced mix of accuracy and warmth.
Do turntable needles matter?
Absolutely. The needle is the component of your turntable that comes into contact with the vinyl record and, ultimately, is responsible for producing sound.
As such, it’s a very important part of the overall setup and performance level of your turntable system. A good quality needle can make a huge difference in terms of sound clarity and accuracy.
On the other hand, a worn-out or inferior needle can produce distorted audio, decreased sound quality and unwanted background noise. It’s important to keep your turntable needle in good condition so that you get the best possible sound out of your record player.
That means changing it regularly (recommendations vary but typically range from every 500-1,000 hours) and using only high quality replacements.
Investing in a good quality turntable needle can make all the difference when it comes to sound accuracy and clarity. So yes, needles do matter!
Conclusion
When purchasing a record player needle, it is important to know the type of record you are playing, as well as what kind of sound output and wear-and-tear protection you are looking for.
From conical needles to elliptical needles, each one offers its own unique benefits that can help provide the best possible listening experience.
Taking the time to do research and understand the different types of record player needles will help ensure that you invest in the right one for your needs.
Regardless of what type of needle is chosen, it is important to take care of it and replace them regularly for optimal performance.
