The tips are diamond, very very hard,
But even they wear in soft vinyl with time.
A clean record, and cleaned stylus help preserve the tip.
I can get in excess of 10 years out of tips on my deck, but I use a Keith Monks machine.
I suspect that the VPI would give acceptable results as well. Even the lowly disc washer is a help.
Last don't forget stylus pressure, more is less time, and handling. NO cartridge takes rough handling well, dropping the stylus tip into records, side skates, etc. all can shorten it's life.
Hope that helps.
loon
But even they wear in soft vinyl with time.
A clean record, and cleaned stylus help preserve the tip.
I can get in excess of 10 years out of tips on my deck, but I use a Keith Monks machine.
I suspect that the VPI would give acceptable results as well. Even the lowly disc washer is a help.
Last don't forget stylus pressure, more is less time, and handling. NO cartridge takes rough handling well, dropping the stylus tip into records, side skates, etc. all can shorten it's life.
Hope that helps.
loon