Standby stylus or cartridge?

If I am happy with the sound of my AT LP120, should I just have a replacement stylus on standby or should I pay more and get a replacement cartridge as well? Logically the stylus would wear off sooner than the cartridge right?

 

No.
If ,as you say you are happy with the sound of your turntable( and why not?)
Then all that is required is a Spare stylus.
Change it when performance falls off. Your records will last forever And you will be a cool operator!

 

Thanks. Will keep that in mind when ordering the stylus.

 

If you're like me, or others, you'll get a bug in your you know what to upgrade (try) another cartridge before your stylus ever gets to the point of wearing out. I'd sit this one out until that happens. I have several cartridges that I don't even use and the stylus on them don't need replaced either.

I "think" I'm settled on what I like currently and those are what I'm playing, but..........................?

 

Unfortunately I have a tendency to do just that. I am a 'what if' kind of guy and pretty soon will get the itch. Something to do with the XY gene. .....

 

Well if you want to experiment thats fine!
Shure M97XE is and sweet and a good tracker .Aurio Technica At95E good all rounder,
Ortofon , take your pick, they are all excellent!
Goldring1006, or 1042 good bass, and detail.
One way or another you will find your preferred cartridge.

 

If it sounds just as good or better than a good CD, I'd keep it and get a spare stylus, unless you upgrade your rig in a future (not that it's bad at all, mind you)

 

Cartridges don't wear out. I'm still using some from the '50s and '60s.

 

Buy a Shure M35X. Astonishing bang-for-buck cartridge. Conical stylus ensures worry-free playback of 7" discs. Replacement styli only run about $20. Might be the last cart you ever need.

 

So for now I will just get a stylus on standby and when I am ready to upgrade, new cartridge and whatever stylus comes with it. Thanks.

 

To conclude, very wise.
I did the same, when at the start of my audio career .
I must have tried. Over 12 different makes and about 3 or 4 from same manufacturer.
Results are interesting. Tone arms affect things as well.
But you will find that one manufacturer in particular hits your spot,