I'm all set to receive my SL-1700 in a few days (FedEx claims the 7th), and I don't know the condition of the needle. How can I check the condition so I know whether or not I need to buy a new one? Also, if it makes a difference, it's going to be running a Shure V 15 Type II cartridge. Thanks a lot!

-Stropko

You are going to need a new one sooner or later.
So buy one now !!!

Well yeah, but I don't know when to change it. So, again, my question: how do I know when a needle is worn out?

You can indicate if the needle is worn out by two methods:


You can inspect the needle with the assistance of a magnifier. Viewing the needle under a microscope or magnifier allows a magnified view of the needle as you can determine if the needle is out of shape.
Sound also helps. If low frequencies are absent, if high frequencies are absent, if distortion is abundant, then you may indicate to yourself you need a new needle.

In my view, microscopes and magnifiers are not worthy because they involve unnecessary possible feasibility and time constraints and it is not a fulfilling way to 'spend' money. Detecting by sound conserves you from these constraints. Failure to replace a stylus will result in misalignment or damaging of the record grooves.

I guess that works, but I still feel like I won't notice. Is it very apparent when you need a new needle?

Go ahead and buy a replacement, which is always a good idea when history unknown, then compare the old and the new on the same record(s); if they sound the same, use the old one awhile - or go with the new one and have the old for backup if you prefer. Microscopic examination favors those with experience looking at styli anyway; listening is best.

Without some sort of magnification it's almost impossible to tell how worn a stylus is, unless it's worn completely down to the nub. Even if you have magnification available to you; if you aren't accustomed to what this particular stylus looks like new, it might not help you much.

Since you're buying what amounts to a "pig in a poke" with this stylus, it might be wise to not risk your recordings on a guess. If you have a couple of LP's that you don't really care about damaging, you could play them just to see, but a worn stylus can cause a lot of damage in a hurry so don't risk anything you really treasure.

If it were me, I'd spend the money on a new stylus. You'll have a good, safe starting point, and by the time a new one has worn down you'll be several hundred hours more experienced about what to look and listen for. I realize you don't want to spend more than is necessary to get this table running, but always keep in mind the cost of replacing the recordings that might be ruined by a bad stylus.

I would highly recommend you replace the existing cart or at least get a replacement stylus if available.

Think of it this way. You have no idea where it has been or how long it has been in use. Unless someone shows me a receipt, I will have to assume the stylus is no good.

You can ruin vinyl by using a bad/worn stylus so I would rather not put my collection at risk with an unknown cart.

Just my $.02

You can take your cartridge to an audio store that deals in TT's. They will typically have a microscope.

Thats a nice cartridge only way to optimize it is with a new stylus, most likely yours is worn,....maybe not ,at least you will have a clear head and won't be second guess ing yourself everytime you may be ruining a classic Beatles white or as such. I know most budgets are very tight these days and I know the stylus will set you back some $$$$$$ unfortunately, that the nature of the beast!

Unless replacing the stylus is cost-prohibitive, you might as well start out with a new one. Afterall, you always change the fluids and filters and maybe get new tires when you buy a used car.