Microscope for cartridge inspection

A really high quality microscope is essential for determining wear on the tip of a stylus.  It also takes practice to develop proficiency.  I am blessed to have two old, but excellent microscopes, both Wild-Herrbrugg, an M3 and an M5.  The M5 is superior, but they both are excellent.  To use them properly you need to mount the stylus underneath the lens so that the tip of the stylus is facing straight up.  I use Silly Putty, but whatever it is important to ensure that the stylus is firmly planted such that it will not move.  Excellent light is important.  I found a ring of LED lights that clamp to the microscope work better than the two arm arrangement that I used to use.  As I key this message I am in NH, but when I return to our home in FL week after next where this equipment is housed I will set it up, take some photos and post them here if I can figure out how to do so.  

@johnss 

You may want to look for a direct view microscope either stereo or mono view with a 1500X or 2000x magnification range. 

Do you have a specific brand or model that you recommend?  the ones I am finding in my searches are prohibitively expensive.

I think 500X would be more than adequate to see assymetrical wear on a stylus tip.  That's the only thing I feel qualified to identify. If wear is symmetrical that means the stylus is evenly worn, and I don't have the expertise to determine how much symmetrical wear is permissible, not to mention the fact I probably could not detect it if it's there.

+1 @elliottbnewcombjr - USB digital microscope

@audiorusty unfortunately, that is correct. 

really tough to find a high powered scope like that for an inexpensive price.