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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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33 posts
 
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/
slaw's avatar
slaw
20,402 posts
 
Nothing beats a US clean and new high quality inner sleeves.
In addition, I use blu tac to clean stylus after every side
mixermarkwilliams OP
14 posts
 
OK, thanks. I just ordered the Audio-Technica AT-617a so that should do the trick.
elliottbnewcombjr
5,111 posts
 
Nice setup, I had that TT and Arm with V15VxMR, loved it.

You can remove the stylus to thoroughly clean it, and verify you haven't damaged the cantilever.

Are you sure of azimuth and VTA, tracking force and anti-skate?

gel: my friend used this gel type, seemed worrisome, but a light tough does a good job for infrequent use

https://www.amazon.com/AUDIOPHILE-DEALER-Turntable-Stylus-Cleaner/dp/B08617QDVV/ref=sr_1_5?dchild=1&...

bargain version

https://www.amazon.com/Material-Multi-Functional-Universal-Household-Transparent/dp/B0859TMHV5/ref=s...=
slaw's avatar
slaw
20,402 posts
 
If your records aren't properly cleaned/stored to begin with, you will always have the same issue.
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