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AT OC9 tracking problem. Worn out?

I've got an Audio-Technica OC-9 that I've had for just about a year now. Recently I've been having some tracking problems on the innermost tracks on a couple records that are new (or almost new)and blemish-free. I've looked at the records under magnification and been unable to see any marks. The stylus is well cleaned with an Onzow Zero-Dust usually every record, and with fluid about once a day or so. I spin a lot and I'm going to guess that the cartridge has somewhere between 1000 - 1200 hours on it. The alignment on the cartridge is spot on and the VTF is set properly at 1.75G.

Can anyone tell me what the ordinary useful life is for one of these cartridges? Any other thoughts on other things I should try?
grimace

Showing 1 response by rauliruegas

rauliruegas
13,129 posts
 
Dear Grimace: +++++ " tracking problems on the innermost tracks on a couple records that are new ... " +++++

if the problem is only on those two records then IMHO i possible that the problem is on those records than in the cartridge.

Now, if you can take that cartridge with those records and try it on a different system: with a friend of you or an audio dealer.
I think that 1K hours is only the half ( at least ) of that stylus cartridge life but there is no precise rule about because the wearing depends on many factors. You could have a better information on it if you ask directly to Audio Technica and maybe too they could support you to inspect ( free ) your cartridge.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
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