special needles for scratching?

[dj_mayhem]

Should I invest in buying an extra headshell and seperate needle when I am scratching records. I currently have use a Stanton 680EL MK2 cartridge on my 1200's. My buddies like the needles I have but I think I would prefer having a non-eliptical needle for the scratch effects, to preserve the vinyl.

What to do?

 

[DJ Jiggly]

I think the tone arm has alot to do with it also.....you need a straight arm, not an "S" shaped one!! Also try out the Stanton 500AL-2 cartriges! Hope this helps!!

L8R
DJ Jiggly

 

[djsun1ny]

check out the shure's. They're built for backspinning

 

[djslim313]

try the ortofon djs (they are blue and long banana style) but lemme tell you they are the ish for back spinning and scratching, they hold better than any other needle i tried, won't give em up for anything but maybe the pink ones, supposedly they give better sound

 

[Raven]

Here is my take on needles...

----------------------------------------------------------------------
Ortofons Concord (no headshell)

Pros: Great sound, wonderful tracking, durable.

Cons: You have to lick them to get them to work (the contacts get grimey), too damn heavy (18g) will wear out your records, but you could get the ones that have to be mounted on a headshell for less weight and that would take care of the cons!
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Shure (any, really)

Pros: DAMN! they sound good, good tracking, will last long.

Cons: Try to clean them...and while you're doing that make sure to notice how the needle bends, try to straighten it out and watch it snap.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Stanton (any 500AL)

Pros: last long and don't skip too much (with the right adjustments)

Cons: Take a while to wear the needle down just right for them not to skip, not the best sound quality, head shell mounted (I dont like headshells)
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Well thats all the one's I've ever tried...hope it helps

 

[Raven]

And another thing... Eliptical stylus' are for good sound and quality.
Spherical are more for scratching...(personal opinion).

 

[DJ RENE G]

I personally use the Pink Ortofons and I think they work really well. As far as licking the backs, well yeah you can do that but you will wind up doing more damage in the long run. Try using a contact cleaner to clean the pins.

 

[Rhoq]

Stanton Discmaster - They are designed for back-cueing and scratching. They are also the best sounding cartridge I have heard (Bass is awesome and highs and mids sound great as well)...