The Best Turntable Stylus For 2025
Turntables are a vital part of any Hi-Fi system. After all, how can you enjoy your favorite music if you can’t play it? Unfortunately, most turntables don’t provide the best sound quality. That’s why we decided to find out which is the best turntable stylus for your Hi-Fi system.
If you have a record player, chances are it will require one of these in order to produce high-quality sound. What’s more, your records will last longer as well — which means this accessory could pay for itself over time. So what type of stylus does it take to get the perfect sound from your vinyl? Let’s take a look at what you need to know before purchasing a stylus for your turntable.
After nearly 19 hours of research, we were able to come up with many top products from prominent brands like Numark, Audio-technica, Victrola, Audioorigin, At, Grado, Ortofon. Among them, Numark CC-1 | Premium seems to be the first product you can rely on. Alternatively, if you're simply looking for a good-looking option, you may go with Audio-Technica ATN95EX Replacement Turntable Stylus for AT-LP5 Turntables.
Our article today focuses mainly on giving you guidelines and tips to be able to buy the right product that best suits your needs. Explore with us right here.
RELATED: We compiled top 10 turntable that plays 78 records based on 5,344 user reviews. Check it out and find the best one for you.
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![Numark CC-1 | Premium, Ultra-Robust DJ Cartridge (Headshell & Stylus) for Turntables - Perfect for Mixing & Scratching]()
- Ready for Anything - Professional, highly-versatile cartridge suitable for every DJ style
- Robust, Reliable - Precision-engineered circular diamond stylus tip
- Style-Driven Design - Sleek, slim-line design that's robust and easy-to-handle
- Consistent Quality, Enhanced Fidelity - High-output and enhanced tracking ideal for spinning and scratch enthusiasts alike
- Hear Every Detail - Full range frequency response from 20-20,000 Hz
TOP Choice #2
![Audio-Technica ATN95EX Replacement Turntable Stylus for AT-LP5 Turntables]()
- 0. 3 x 0. 7 Diamond Elliptical Stylus
- Replacement stylus for the AT95EX cartridge
- Bonded Round Shank construction
TOP Choice #3
![Audio-Technica AT-VM95E Dual Moving Magnet Turntable Cartridge Green]()
- Aluminum cantilever
- Threaded inserts in cartridge body enable cartridge to be mounted to headshell with just two screws - no nuts required
- VM95 Series dual Magnet cartridge with 0.3 x 0.7 mil Elliptical stylus
- Durable low-resonance polymer Housing
- Specially wound coils increase output voltage
4
![Audio-Technica AT-VM95C/H Turntable Headshell/Cartridge Combo Kit Blue]()
- Specially wound coils increase output voltage
- Threaded inserts in cartridge body enable cartridge to be mounted to head shell with just two screws - no nuts required
- M dual Magnet cartridge with 0.6 mil Conical stylus
- Aluminum cantilever
- Universal 1/2"-mount head shell for 4-pin Turntable cartridges
5
![Audio-Technica AT-VMN95ML Microlinear Replacement Turntable Stylus Red]()
- Nude square shank construction
- 2.2 x 0.12 mil Micro-Linear stylus
- Replacement stylus for at-vm95ml cartridge
- THREE SPEED BELT-DRIVEN TURNTABLE - This 3-speed (33 1/3, 45, 78 rpm) suitcase record player features UPGRADED PREMIUM SOUND QUALITY and sits on sound isolating feet that prevent vibration. It is perfect for your living room, bedroom or office.
- A RECORD PLAYER THAT SUITS YOUR PERSONALITY - Combined with Victrola’s unparalleled sound quality and exquisite craftsmanship, and a wide range of styles, patterns and colors to choose from, get ready to create lifelong music memories
- NO STEREO SYSTEM OR EXTRA EQUIPMENT REQUIRED. Get it up and running in minutes. Retro looks combined with the convenience of modern technology makes this affordable record player ideal for beginners & vintage enthusiasts
- EXPANDED CONNECTION OPTIONS - Stream smartphone audio through the turntable’s built-in Bluetooth speakers. Easily connect external speakers via the stereo RCA outputs, or use the Line input for non-Bluetooth devices like a CD player. For personal listening, connect your headphones to the headphone jack.
- Connectivity technology: Wired
- ALL THE CONTROLS YOU NEED - Features an Input select knob, Power/Volume Knob & an Auto stop switch that stops spinning records once the record is finished playing.
- TAKE YOUR TUNES ANYWHERE - Housed in a vintage suitcase with an easy carry handle, Victrola's blend of retro and contemporary design give you the ultimate flexibility to listen to music where you want and how you want – a great choice for vinyl lovers
7
![Audio-Technica AT-VM95EN/H Turntable Headshell/Cartridge Combo Kit Orange]()
- Durable low-resonance polymer Housing
- Threaded inserts in cartridge body enable cartridge to be mounted to headshell with just two screws - no nuts required
- M dual Magnet cartridge with 0.3 x 0.7 mil Elliptical Nude stylus
- Universal 1/2"-mount headshell for 4-pin Turntable cartridges
- Aluminum cantilever
8
![Audio-Technica AT-VMN95SH Shibata Replacement Turntable Stylus Brown]()
- 2.7 x 0.26 mil shibata stylus
- Package Weight: 0.024 kilograms
- Replacement stylus for at-vm95sh cartridge
- Nude square shank construction
- Includes aluminum cantilever and mounting hardware
- Shibata stylus provides greater surface contact with the record groove than elliptical styli, picking up ultra-high frequencies with less groove stress and distortion
- Die-cast aluminum alloy housing reduces vibration and adds a natural electrical shield
- Dual magnets match the left and right channels in a stereo record groove for outstanding channel separation and extended frequency response
- Center shield plate between the left and right channels reduces crosstalk
- Paratoroidal coils improve generating efficiency
10
![Audio-Technica AT-VMN95EN Elliptical Replacement Turntable Stylus Orange]()
- 0.3 x 0.7 mil Elliptical stylus
- Replacement stylus for at-vm95en cartridge
- Nude round shank construction
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
What to Look For in a best turntable stylus?
The best turntable stylus is the standard appliance in your life. Seeing that the item is introduced with many models with distinct functions and features, several challenges in selecting. However, anything has its solution, not except for that. We, the high-qualified expert in this area, will be available here to give you support.
Of course, looking for the best turntable stylus which suits you most requires many criteria to consider. You are projected to think carefully about each of the features below so that your choice will be appropriate:
Record Speeds
These numbers are the revolutions per minute (rpm) of the record. Although most records are 33s in length, there are still 45s and some 78s available (the former are smaller). While most turntables can play both 33rpm or 45rpm, you will need to have an adapter in order to hear the slower version. You'll have to look for an adapter or player that can play 78s.
Pre-amps
Pre-amps convert the turntable's "phono" signal into a stronger signal called "line", so that it is compatible with speakers, headphones and other audio equipment. You can either use an amplifier that has a separate phono line or buy a standalone pre-amp if the turntable does not have one.
Some turntables come with switchable preamps that can be switched on and off depending on the plugging device.
Some turntables come with switchable preamps that can be switched on and off depending on the plugging device.
Styluses And Cartridges
A turntable's most crucial parts are its stylus and cartridge. The stylus and cartridge pick up the information from the record, convert it to electronic signals and send them to the speakers.
The stylus, or "needle", is what sits inside the grooves of the record. It is crucial to choose the right shape for the stylus. An elliptical stylus will pick up more information than one that has a conical surface because it touches more records. Audiophiles also believe that conical styluses work better with old records because they take up more space after the groove has been expanded through repeated plays.
The stylus is held in the cartridge, which converts its movements into electric signals. The most popular cartridge types are moving magnet (MM), and moving coil (MC). Most turntables will use MM cartridges because they areer and more convenient to change needles. However, MC cartridges can be lighter and pick up more groove changes than MM cartridges. They are also more costly.
The stylus, or "needle", is what sits inside the grooves of the record. It is crucial to choose the right shape for the stylus. An elliptical stylus will pick up more information than one that has a conical surface because it touches more records. Audiophiles also believe that conical styluses work better with old records because they take up more space after the groove has been expanded through repeated plays.
The stylus is held in the cartridge, which converts its movements into electric signals. The most popular cartridge types are moving magnet (MM), and moving coil (MC). Most turntables will use MM cartridges because they areer and more convenient to change needles. However, MC cartridges can be lighter and pick up more groove changes than MM cartridges. They are also more costly.
USB Turntables
You can record your albums to USB turntables. They may not be able to connect to regular audio systems because they only have the USB connector. The USB turntables can be smaller and lighter than regular ones, but they are also more compact, portable, ander. Many can be charged via USB.
Although "portable" USB turntables may come with speakers built in, they do not provide good sound quality.
Although "portable" USB turntables may come with speakers built in, they do not provide good sound quality.
Drives
Two types of drive are available for turntables: direct and belt.
Models with direct drive motors are mounted beneath the platter. In a belt drive, the motor is attached to one end by a rubber belt. The turntable can be spun at higher speeds and is compacted by direct drives. Belt models, on the other hand, isolate any extra noise from the motor.
Models with direct drive motors are mounted beneath the platter. In a belt drive, the motor is attached to one end by a rubber belt. The turntable can be spun at higher speeds and is compacted by direct drives. Belt models, on the other hand, isolate any extra noise from the motor.
Anti-skate Force
The anti-skate force must be adjusted in conjunction with the tracking force via the dial located near the tonearm. This ensures that the needle does not move sideways.
Fully Automatic
Playing vinyl has the biggest drawback of having to reach at each end and turn it over. A fully automatic turntable uses a machine on the tonearm to put the needle on the record and play it. Then, at the end of the track, it lifts the record up to return it to its cradle.
The extra electric signals along the tonearm and the mechanical movement are what audio purists believe affect the sound. Full-auto, however, is the best option if you don't want to have to stand up for half an hour every time.
The extra electric signals along the tonearm and the mechanical movement are what audio purists believe affect the sound. Full-auto, however, is the best option if you don't want to have to stand up for half an hour every time.
Tracking Force
The track force refers to the downward pressure that the cartridge exerts on the record through the stylus. A suggested tracking force will be included with your turntable.
Adjusting the track force can be delicate, but this is worth it to improve sound quality. You also have a lower chance of damaging your records by too much downward force.
Adjusting the counterweight at the back of your tonearm can change the tracking force. First, balance the tonearm horizontally. Next, twist the counterweight to get the right downforce (as indicated in the instruction).
Adjusting the track force can be delicate, but this is worth it to improve sound quality. You also have a lower chance of damaging your records by too much downward force.
Adjusting the counterweight at the back of your tonearm can change the tracking force. First, balance the tonearm horizontally. Next, twist the counterweight to get the right downforce (as indicated in the instruction).
FAQs
Can You Connect A Turntable Directly To Speakers?
It all depends on whether the connectors in your device can accommodate your speakers. Most of them will. It shouldn't be a problem connecting your turntable and its speakers.How Many Times Can You Listen To A Vinyl Record?
The vinyl record is a great resource for work. The record can be listened to over 100 times with no loss of sound quality.What’s An Automatic Turntable?
A turntable that is automatic uses a combination of automatic features and a tonearm to lift itself from its resting place and position itself above your record for playback. After the track has finished, the device will automatically lift from its resting place and go back to the original position.This is a preferred method by some users as it reduces the amount of effort required to stop and play your turntable. However, this does not mean you can't manually lift the tonearm. It's still possible.
Which Is Better? Belt-Driven Turntables Or Direct Drive Turntables?
Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. A belt-driven turntable is one that rotates the platters using an elastic belt. The belt absorbs any vibrations which can impact sound quality.They can get worn and inconsistent in speed, however.
On the other side, direct drive turntables have the platter being rotated by the motor. Because they are directly driven by the motor, they have a more constant speed and don't wear down like a belt.
Problem is that the motor can create unwanted vibrations which can disrupt your tracks' sounds.
How To Make The Turntable Louder?
If the phonostage isn't connected correctly or not properly, your turntable might play slowly. A properly sized, wired and connected phonostage is the best way to unlock your turntable's potential.What Makes One Turntable Sound Better Than Another?
You need to take into account many factors. The quality of both the stylus and cartridge is important. Some turntables simply have more features, which allow for better accuracy and less vibration.Do I Need A Preamp For My Turntable?
Both yes and no. A preamp is necessary for every turntable to convert its sounds into something your record player can hear, as well as other audio devices.Because most turntables have their preamp built in, it's not necessary. If this is the case then you don't need a separate preamp.
However, we understand that not everyone wants to improve their sound and decide to purchase a preamp separately. For more information, if you are one of these people, please see our next question.
Do All Turntables Have RCA Outputs?
Most do. This is a common feature in turntables and record players. For more details on your turntable, we recommend consulting the manual.Is It Bad To Leave A Record On The Turntable?
It is. It is a habit that even certified audiophiles sometimes forget to put their records in their jackets, but it's important to always do this.Your record will be more likely to get damaged or dirty if it is not kept out in the open. You're guilty of this habit, but at the very least you should not forget to close the dust cover.
Look through again. The brand of product you choose will affect the options available to you. Moreover, pricer models will offer more customization options. We've covered top-scoring models varying at some price. So you have more choices to consider. Furthermore, our staff will update the info related to best turntable stylus with the newest data. Let check our site more regularly to get the latest options.
If you want to take practical support from our expert, don't hesitate to give us feedback. Please feel free to contact us. Hopefully, with our buying guide, you can have a happy shopping for the product.
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