Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB Stylus Replacement including Alignment and Tracking Force

[@mikeyvortex6551]

Something I'm going to point out that I wish I knew before watching this. And this isn't a jab at the creator as there are tons of great tutorials here. But these should be 3 different tutorial videos because the way its currently laid out someone who's knew to this is going to think they need to recalibrate their alignment and tracking force / weight off-sets, etc. every time after replacing their stylus and that is not the case. Chances of you needing to do anything other than snapping in the new stylus are very slim. Since it was my first time replacing my stylus the first time I saw this video, which was over 2 years ago now, I thought I needed to do all the other things too. I even printed out the calibration sheets etc. and each thing i did I put myself deeper and deeper in a hole I couldn't seem to get out of. My record player truly never worked the same. Constant skipping, low volume / sound, horrible distortion, cracks and pops, etc. If your turntable runs smooth and all you need is to replace the stylus then just do that. Play a record and if it sounds good don't do anything else to it. Leave it Be!

[@Rickmakes]

I appreciate comments and feedback like this. I occasionally get people who say things like "wrong" or "you suck". That helps no one. You bring up some good points here. I'll pin this comment for the time being as it may be of help to others.

[@nate3674]

I picked up a new turntable yesterday. I’m new to it. Within 24 hours I accidentally bent the needle doing something dumb and being careless. I have a new stylist coming on Tuesday and I was fighting at the in-depth procedures needed to just swap out stylus

[@cholop.625]

Thanks for this! I’m replacing for the first time and also printed out a calibration sheet but this makes me feel a lot better. Especially since I’m replacing the old cart with the same model.

[@jon4139]

Pro tip to anyone doing anything with a new stylus, KEEP THE LITTLE PLASTIC SHIELD THINGY ON as much as you can. You can even zero the weight of this plastic cover thingy beforehand and set the tracking force this way. The needle should only be naked when it's about to hit vinyl

[@Rickmakes]

Great tip!

[@josephevans5785]

Thanks for the tip 👍 I was wondering about that. How much does the plastic stylus cap weight?

[@adegliangeli]

Understood this after having bent a brand new stylus ;-(

[@sarahvansicklen3029]

Wow, incredibly helpful! Had no idea my alignment was so far off the mark. Just ordered new needle and the scale. Thank you for the help!

[@Mildon44]

I just bent my needle trying to adjust the allignment, so ive ordered a new one, and took care in learning how you aligned yours in this video

[@Nick-md4vc]

Same here, now...

[@Pauls_Archive]

Nice clear video but something you didn’t mention about cartridge alignment, was the fact that the actual main aim is to align the stylus cantilever to the grid lines on the proctor and not the cartridge body, it’s actually stated in the instructions too. All you did was show an overhead view of the cartridge body. Aligning the cartridge body to the protractor grid is fine, providing you know the stylus cantilever is perfectly straight to begin with, which isn’t always the case, I would always check the cantilever is parallel to the side grid lines as stated in the instructions first before worrying about the cartridge body. That way, you know the stylus is going to be tangent to the record grooves (which is the whole purpose) Another tip - turn your anti skate to 0 before taking a tracking force reading 👍🏻

[@tellitlikeitis8691]

Could this have been the reason his previous stylus was bent to the side? What happens to the stylus when it is not precisely on the grooves of the record?

[@rhythmfield]

@@tellitlikeitis8691 That might’ve been the problem yes… Something didn’t quite “align“ in this whole thing…

[@Richardm1981]

Pretty straight forward for someone like me that is new to vinyl and own the lp 120. I thought the was way harder than what I see here. Thanks! Very useful! :)

[@pcerio]

Thanks for posting this video. My replacement went as smooth as silk!

[@septiseptimiu8287]

An important thing, when the stylus is replaced on a AT cartridge the alignment procedure isn't necessary because their needles are all standard! If happened that the cartridge was missaligned this happened before changing the stylus, alignment procedure should be repeated only when replacing the whole cartridge to another type/brand.

[@robyoink]

Bought a new mono stylus and headshell, thanks for helping me with the install! The instructions on the paper make it seem way more complicated than it is.

[@HarleyFLHRCI99]

Which mono stylus and head shell

[@vanessag4862]

Thank you for this video! My stylus got bent when I was moving apartments. I've never gotten around to fixing since it seemed so complicated. I missed playing my vinyls so here i am finally. And thanks for making it look easy!

[@Rickmakes]

No problem!

[@ronanjm]

Vinyl is the plural of vinyl.

[@cherrylodge8598]

Phew thank you so much for your clear no nonsense video,had it done in no time prior to your video i was filled with utter dread.so again thank you.x

[@bigsweetc6]

How can you even tell if your turn table is playing in the incorrectly alignment? Would I have noticed by now? Sounds good to me.

[@anemul266]

I was lucky and my cartridge was/is aligned from the factory, pretty dang spot on, closer than I could do it. Messing with it, couldn't have yielded any better results. Thanks for the tip on getting the protractor hole centered though.

[@gregoryirwin263]

The bent cantilever suggests that your anti skate ,dependent upon whether bent left or right is either set too high or too low The bend will be in the opposite direction of the anti skate force applied meaning if it's too low the cantilever will bend in the opposite direction towards the outer groove wall and if it's set too high the cantilever will bend towards the inner groove wall of a record There is much discussion on this topic available online worth investigating Had the same problem with my ortofon blue. Sometimes it can also just be a manufacturer defect but you saying that it wasn't that way when you installed leads me to believe your anti skate setting is off Cheers

[@kyiscray]

Got the lp120x last week and i bent the stylus the other day by forgetting to put the cap on, and forgetting to lock the arm, but i managed to very carefully bend it back and it seems to sound about the same as before. I might replace the stylus eventually though

[@thomasfuller3450]

Thanks. I have one of these, and couldn't figure out how to get it off. You'd think they would have made it a little easier. I had to use a jeweler's screwdriver.

[@Kissarmy180]

Same thing happened to my stylus and instead of replacing it I was able to just make it straight again and it worked fine.

[@lindastevenson9030]

Hello! I am hopeful that I can do this during the pandemic. That said, I cannot find the scale in your URL listings above. Please advise. Thank you very! much for the alignment template. As a senior, I replaced many needles on my record players during the 60's+. It certainly wasn't as involved as this! Appreciate your video very much.

[@Gleamoz]

I only got a turn table because of a Vynil LP that was on it. 😅, and so far I like it , but yeah , have to take care of that needle. Me I just eye balled it and I have on the zero weight, and it’s playing ok , I don’t have it gliding on the plastic rail and it’s about a mm from the vynil.

[@Bobpopsiculs]

I aligned my cartridge fine using a protractor like you did but how far forward or backwards should the cartridge be in the headshell? I read that this affects overhang. Thanks in advance

[@SammeLagom]

Very good informative stuff! Thanks man!

[@MortezaParkook]

Thanks, but the manual explain to use the minimum of 3.5 for the stylus arm's weight; how come you're happy with 2.36?

[@allanredford6070]

very very good. useful to all owners of TTs with adjustment capability. just vertical tracking angle and azimuth check recommended. VTA. changing VTA needs arm with height adjustment at pivot. the cartridge’s suspension really determines VTA. Azimuth, by slightly teisting headshell (if SME H4 type, and retightening after, unless it has specific adjuster at connector(few have this) after all adjustment, ultimate test is a listen to an LP with dynamics, particularly in inner tracks.if it tracks well, well done :).

[@sarahmccabe6266]

Very Useful Video - Geeking out with turntable tech!

[@Rickmakes]

It is a fun hobby. Years ago I made a console that sits under my TV. My turntable is on it. It has two DVD storage drawers underneath. I'm currently converting one to hold records. I never would have thought twenty years ago that I would swap out DVDs for vinyl records.

[@oliverconroy6894]

I bought this turntable today and snapped the stylus today haha, good start

[@Rickmakes]

Oh no! I hope you are able to get it replaced soon so you can enjoy your records.

[@oliverconroy6894]

RickMakes gonna do exactly as you showed in this video, really helpful thank you very much

[@WindomRettes]

Smashing Info!

[@tjeerdwolschrijn393]

THNX voor your virtual assisting ;-)!!

[@georgescuovidiu435]

Hello, I have an audio technica AT-LP120 and suddenly I didn't have sound in one channel anymore, I removed the cartridge and I was in Bucharest and an electronist measured it and he said that it is very good and my problem it is inside the record player. If you can give me an advice will be nice, because in Norway I do not find an electronist to repair it. I checked the picup with another amplifier and there is no sound in the same channel.

[@billdurr6829]

WTF This video makes me wanna sell my record collection My god What did I get my self into?

[@miket.1095]

😂

[@bigmacfullerton7870]

This is why I’m a CD guy

[@dakotahare908]

The video is very helpful replacing the stylus, where can I find the scale you used in the video?

[@Rickmakes]

I have a link to it in the description.

[@manFromPeterborough]

I use the Ortofon protractor which is 65 &120mm and the same scale

[@OrestesGhost]

Moved my stylus by accident like you but was able to softly put it back on the same place and works perfectly, should I be worried about it? Alignment is fine and audio is like it never happened.

[@Rickmakes]

If it seems to work, I would go with it. I'm guessing an audiophile would replace it but that's not me. :)

[@OrestesGhost]

@@Rickmakes yes I mean the cantilever isnt bent, sound isnt irregular, so it seems like it just moved out of place. Thanks for responding tho!.

[@Gerardo-1410]

Excellent video, thank you very much.

[@Rickmakes]

You are welcome!

[@manFromPeterborough]

Just another mention, check the overhang of the stylus tip to back washer with the caliper it should be 52mm

[@Pauls_Archive]

Not quite correct. The tone arm overhang on the ATLP120 actually has a stated overhang of 53mm not 52. This has been confirmed by Audio Technica and is written in some of their online literature (check their website)

[@chasonbikes]

Is it really necessary to adjust the new head? I bought one of these for my daughter and after a house move the needle got broke, £30 for a replacement head but this is far too much flaff surely

[@mohansivanand7303]

Useful, thank you.

[@Classyellee]

I would like to know which needle is best for an technics sl-220

[@arupnath3477]

Sir, Second time when my turntable New stylus setting ,its Alignment is must be necessary ?? Pls Reply.

[@Rickmakes]

Hard to say if your alignment is out. Might be worth checking.

[@thomasacheson1625]

I bought mine used but, it came w/ the instructions. I didn't see that alignment scale with the instructions. Does Audio Technica have that online?

[@Rickmakes]

You can try the one I linked to in the description.

[@Pumpkinking64]

I can’t loosen up my headshell even with a jewelers screwdriver. the screws seem to be way too tight and they won’t budge. any tips?

[@Rickmakes]

You might try finding a larger screwdriver that will still fit the screws. You could even file or grind one down a bit. If you do that, make sure you completely remove any filings from the screwdriver. Be careful because you could accidentally damage it or injure yourself.

[@blkbeauti05]

The same thing happened to me, no clue how my needle got bent. Anyway, thanks for this video.

[@laika25]

Is there a better stylus for the lp120 that you can just easily hasslefree swap?

[@Rickmakes]

I think there are but I haven't investigated. From what I understand, there are a number of ways people upgrade these turntables.

[@timlucas310]

Do I need to align my cartridge with an alignment protractor when I use a concorde cartidge, or can I just screw those on and play?

[@Rickmakes]

I'm guessing you would align it but I am not sure. You might check with the manufacturer to see if they have specific alignment instructions.

[@DJWenlowe]

Hi, the Concorde type carts do not require alignment , they are plug and play 👍👍

[@charlesludwig9173]

An alternative is set stylus to headshell tail distance (rubber gasket) to 52.52mm and square the cart to headshell. This will deliver Audio-Technica tracking error scheme.

[@bobking7347]

you'll have to adjust the azimuth when you take off the headshell, it isn't as simple as just putting it back on.

[@FastFXS]

IMHO, one thing to mention, is that you should never, ever use a screwdriver like the one being used. The reasoning for this is the fact that a MM ( moving magnet ) cartridge is obviously magnetic. Most screwdrivers are steel such as the one being used. Magnets + steel? You know the rest of the story. The concensus of some audiophiles is that one or both channels can be irreparably affected. All of the installation nuts, screws, etc,etc, are made from non magnetic materials for a reason. All screwdrivers and installation components supplied by the manufacturers are a non magnetic alloy. Happy spinning.

[@Rickmakes]

Thanks for the tip!

[@djRaMaNgb]

Good example Thank you

[@dc4614]

Thanks! This worked a charm!!

[@Rickmakes]

Glad it helped!

[@kio_kio_kio]

Thanks!!!

[@carlosquintanilla3700]

Does the alignment sheet and procedure works with the AT-LP120XBT-USB?

[@ElectricVintage-u1o]

Yes

[@genkoperezblair9268]

Thanks for video. I have a question, how do you know when is the time to needle change? Is for hours works or change sounds? I hope your comments. Regards

[@Rickmakes]

I replaced mine because it became bent. Another reason would be that the sound is off. You would want to clean it first to see if that fixes it. You would also want to replace the needle if you received the turntable second hand.

[@velvet1undergrund643]

Hola Rickmakes, una pregunta. Cual es la medida de la hoja en la que imprimiste el transportador para alinear la aguja?

[@Rickmakes]

Usé papel tamaño carta (11x85 pulgadas). Es posible que pueda utilizar papel A4. Solo asegúrate de imprimir al 100%.

[@ivan_mervillie]

Hi, thank you very much for the video. Do you know if this template works for the new AT-LP120XUSB too?

[@Trekkie4]

No, it does not unfortunately. The new 120X & 140XP models both have new, redesigned tonearm.

[@ivan_mervillie]

@@Trekkie4 Thank you very much for your reply. Do you have any idea where I can find a template for the 120X?

[@carlosquintanilla3700]

@@Trekkie4 Have you found the right template for the 120XUSB?

[@Trekkie4]

@Carlos Quintanilla I made my own, using a special arc protractor generator app & effective length from the LP140 manual.

[@ElectricVintage-u1o]

Yes, it works. A two-point protractor like the one used in the video will work for any turntable - as long as the slots in the headshell are long enough to allow for the template's alignment geometry. The AT-LP120XUSB was designed for a Stevenson alignment and a groove area according to IEC specifications, which is exactly what this template will give you (the null points give it away). It's a perfect match for your turntable and the cartridge should be pretty close to square in the headshell if you use it. You can try other alignment geometries as well if you don't mind that the cartridge is slightly angled..

[@Goosy]

thanks

[@adriangalvan9792]

Did this happen again? My stylus was bent as well and I haven’t found a clear reason as to why. It’s a common thing apparently but I’m just wondering if it will hurt anything if I just leave it. Please help thank you

[@Rickmakes]

I haven't had it happen again but if it does, I might just leave it and take my chances.

[@danielo8062]

I have one quick question. Since you putting your stylus on the Stylus Scale without the protector, I’ve wondered if it is going to destroy your stylus. I‘ve read that you are not allowed to put your stylus without the protector on any surface under any circumstances. Also if you do the alligment and cartdrige adjustment, did put your stylus on the paper or did you level it up a little bit?

[@Rickmakes]

The tip of the stylus is typically something like diamond so in a way it is very durable. While you shouldn't typically touch it to anything but a record, it should be fine touching it to the scale and to the protractor for the short time period. I think the biggest risk is bending the stylus so I like to make sure I am lifting it directly up and down (not sliding it side to side). I placed the stylus directly on the protractor. The packing tape I put on the protractor made the surface slippery so the stylus tip wouldn't grab onto it and bend. Of course, this is just my opinion. I'm guessing others have different opinions. I think the important thing is to keep the stylus clean. I made a video on that topic: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGrIoWCtnr-Zqck

[@leo_n3103]

thank you!

[@jz5748]

Is it okay to do some Scratching with the stock needle?

[@Rickmakes]

I don't know. I don't have knowledge in that area aside from listening to it.

[@chrissullivan8707]

jz Gurung yes you can !!!

[@okayyuh9282]

I mean u could but the stylus not the record would last very long

[@jamatoneblue]

Did you end up having the same problem happen again? I've had two cantilevers bend to the right side like that on my lp120. I've read that these turntables have anti skating issues and I'm thinking that could be the culprit.

[@Rickmakes]

I haven't but I've heard others have. I think they got rid of the anti-skating feature on the latest revision of this turntable.

[@sukhdevthakur5989]

Excellent👍

[@Rickmakes]

Thank you!

[@starwarez73]

I Have a at-lp120xusb can I use ATN95E too?

[@Rickmakes]

I think this is the stylus you need: amzn.to/3d8uN98 (AT-VMN95E)

[@richardm.4227]

The ATN95 is the one that comes with it. The one in the comment from Rick.

[@Richardm1981]

Hello again, Rick. I commented on this video about 9 months ago. I still have my LP120 but now I’ve been through 2 styluses because they eventually bent to the right. My LP120 has zero anti skate (and yes, everything checks out, tunearm tracking force and weight). I suspect this is the reason. Did this happened to you again?

[@GotItAll15]

anti skate should be same as tracking force , generally

[@richardm.4227]

The lp120X has an actual working anti-skate setting. Do you have the lp120usb or the lp120Xusb ?

[@larryshaver3568]

I think Pfanstiehl makes a stylus for those cartridges this IS SUPPOSED to be as good as the one made by Audio Technica

[@JoeOrber]

Pfanstiehl makes really good styli, or used to, I don't know if they're still on the market

[@claudiodean6363]

Cool video

[@Rickmakes]

Thanks!

[@MartinFarrell1972]

Looks like I have bought the wrong thing. It has 4 prongs at the back of it.

[@lindastevenson9030]

Sigh, just saw the URL for the scale. Please disregard that section of my comment below...

[@drewsloan9639]

I recently purchased a new Ortofon Blue stylus for my turntable. I see connectors, but I do not know how to remove the old stylus from the headshell in order to install my upgrade (this is my first time buying a new stylus)

[@richardgrant5105]

the blind leading the blind..............