2. misc-audio
  3. 169246-159744

Build-up on stylus - any new cures?

Hi, I run a restored TD-124 and SME 3009 series II, a Shure V-15 III, and a JICO SAS stylus. The last record or two I played sounded a bit off and I wondered whether I had managed to wear out the stylus. Using a pocket microscope I bought for this, I was able to see that the stylus tip still has good "shoulders," so that much is good. However, it has an astonishing amount of sparkly white build-up around the diamond.

There is a thread on here from 2014 with good advice, and I've used slices from a magic eraser for some years now, occasionally with alcohol. Usually I clean the stylus every other record side with a dry ME. Any new thoughts on removing this junk?
One 2014 poster suggested gently dragging the stylus on the ME back to front. I have never done that but would like to hear if anyone thinks that is safe for the tip? Hopefully there is an inexpensive solution, thanks!
mixermarkwilliams

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I’ve never heard of using a Magic Eraser on a stylus. I’d be afraid that the stylus would catch on the surface and snap off. I'd also be afraid that if I applied too much pressure I'd damage the cantilever.

I use a stylus brush with stylus cleaning solution for quick cleans between plays (I don’t use the solution between every play, but between every few; I use the dry brush between every side that’s played).

I also have the DS Audio ST-50, which is a bit pricey but works like a charm. https://www.ds-audio-w.biz/st-50-stylus-cleaner/
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