Replacing your Sony stylus

The first thing to remember when it is time to get a new Sony stylus is that almost all of their needles were not made by them. They are contracted out to manufacturers that specialize in making needles and cartridges. Usually this is the brand Audio Technica but can also be ADC, Ortofon, or some other lesser known generic manufacturers. The point of all this is to say that in most cases it is not at all necessary to find a needle that is a 'genuine' Sony stylus.

A few notable exceptions would be the ND-20G or the ND-333 ND-500 ND-MC1E and similarly formatted needle part numbers as found in the PS-X555 and similar model turntables. These styli appear to be genuine OEM parts and are not known to available in the aftermarket copy variety. Almost every Sony stylus is still available. Start by clicking on 'NEEDLES' in the left hand column on our site.

If you have determined that you need a Shure stylus, you are well on your way. Focusing on the cartridge/needle brand can save you a big headache that you may experience when trying to rely on the model number of the turntable alone. That's because someone, including the manufacturer, may have changed the cartridge to the Shure brand. They've marketed over 2000 needle numbers.

Most of these numbers are obsolete but the good news is that with all these numbers, there where only just over two dozen different needle body styles. That's the plastic grip needle assembly at the front of the cartridge. Almost all body styles are still available. Most of the time you will have a choice between a genuine Shure product or an aftermarket copy. Though some of the newest Mexico made Shure products have some issues, on the whole Shure has produced a great lineup over the years. You should replace your needle rather than replace the whole cartridge.