What condition will you not play on your main system? LP content


I have a few great records ie early Prestige and some others with "sentimental" value that I'm hesitant to play on my main system. I've cleaned them but I'm not sure what kind of damage I could do to my stylus. Do you guys have a cut off point where you relegate LP's? Thanks, I know it seems like a silly question..
dhm78
Been playing Muddy Waters Live at Mr.Kellys on Chess for 30 years still sounds great.

I would try using a less expensive cartridge to test - I'm sure you have one.
If you really like the album - try it!
If is skips or jumps or just sounds bad - STOP IT & try the next LP.
When all is tried & true - Go back to your favorite cartridge & ENJOY!
I usually have 2 or 3 backups for my true favorites.
After 50 years in analogue - You learn a few things.

If it skips or jumps, try to play with the tracking force a little. Also, turn the volume down a bit, it might help, I have one record with which it helps - bad scratch there covering about half a minute, I turn the volume down and it plays through.
As long as it is clean, and not so warped as to hit the tonearm, I will play anything.  For poor quality LPs, I use a rugged Ortofon OM-30.  Not as detailed as some better pickups, but it can track almost anything.