hcsunshine wrote:

hey y'all. i'm in the process of switching out the stylus that came with my music hall tracker cartridge (on MMF-2.2). just wondering, after installing the new stylus, do they typically require a burn in period before they achieve their final sound?

Since there are no electronics involved, burn-in would not really be the correct term.

Break-in might be the right term to use.

A new cartridge definitely has a break-in period, because the stylus suspension takes time to reach its final state of compliance. The amount varies widely with the type of materials used.

Changing the stylus on an existing cartridge should not involve any break-in period, because the suspension is already well set-up.

.....the type of suspension...around 50 hours on average.
You will typically hear improvement in low end and softening of the top end as the suspension (compliance) loosens up.

I use one of these to keep tabs on the number of album sides my carts see.

It gives you an estimate for the number of hours on your cart (should you be concerned with such OCD pursuit).

http://www.mcmaster.com/#push-button-counters/=sn13ym

Bill - on the Hill
Practicing Curmudgeon & Audio Snob
- just an “ON” switch, Please -

...adjusting your VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle)?

Bill - on the Hill
Practicing Curmudgeon & Audio Snob
- just an “ON” switch, Please –