Proper way to clean a stylus

[Oldlistener50]

I am in the process of cleaning my vinyl collection and putting them in new ricepaper sleeves.

On the stylus, what is the best way to clean it? I notice fine dust particles on the outside of the cartridge.

Air? I am afraid of using canned air, thinking too much pressure? Blow on it? That's what I've been doing, but there's the chance of moisture. Fine brush?

Dunno, that's why I am asking. Thanks much.

 

[audiofox]

I've used stylus brushes in the past but now use the Zerodust:

ZERODUST | Sibatech, inc. High-quality Audio Equipment from Japan

Some of the current prices are a bit usury; the best I could find was on eBay (still a bit high, IMHO-I think I got mine for less than $30 a few years ago):

ONZOW ZERODUST ZERO DUST TURNTABLE STYLUS NEEDLE CLEANER JAPAN MADE NEW | eBay

If you want to really save, you can use this alternative to the Zerodust that some others have adopted (apparently the same basic material as used in the Zerodust):

http://www.toyconnection.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=TC&Product_Code=STIHA&Category_Code=SS

I've read about some using the Mr Clean Magic Eraser to clean their stylii with success (VERY cheap), but I have no personal experience with that method. Here's one of the articles:

Magic Eraser Stylus Cleaner

http://www.vinylengine.com/turntable_forum/viewtopic.php?t=21033

 

[TLS Guy]

I am in the process of cleaning my vinyl collection and putting them in new ricepaper sleeves.

On the stylus, what is the best way to clean it? I notice fine dust particles on the outside of the cartridge.

Air? I am afraid of using canned air, thinking too much pressure? Blow on it? That's what I've been doing, but there's the chance of moisture. Fine brush?

Dunno, that's why I am asking. Thanks much.

Do not use the methods you outlined above, or you will need a new cartridge.

I use the Dust Bug with every playing and this helps prevent stylus fouling immensely.

I clean my styli with a soft stylus brush soaked in pure Isopropyl alcohol.

 

[audiofox]

Mark, that's a bit of an exaggeration-I've been using the Zerodust for several years and have not had to replace any of my stylii yet. What do you base your comments on? Did you lose a cartridge to one of these methods?

 

[TLS Guy]

Mark, that's a bit of an exaggeration-I've been using the Zerodust for several years and have not had to replace any of my stylii yet. What do you base your comments on? Did you lose a cartridge to one of these methods?

I was just referring to the OPs quote, about vigorous blowing, not the zerostat.

I just described how I have always done it, nothing more.