Help with needle replacement

Hi everyone I recently got a technics sl-q300 and it has no needle. Im new to the whole vinyl scene and know very little. I am searching online for a needles and I found a website that carries what I think I need. I have three questions about it though. If my cartridge has never been replaced should I replace that? Also does it matter if its not the same brand? Lastly can I use any kind of replacement needle and it would work? Thanks

 

Make sure your cart has the right tracking force and listen to it. Do you like what you hear ? If not time to replace the stylus (needle) or get a new cart&stylus. As long as it is a MM (moving Magnet) it does not matter which brand you buy. Could be (for example a few tried & tested carts for way under 100 bucks) an Audio Technica AT 95 or a SHURE M44, Ortofon 2M Red or a Sumiko Black Pearl just to name a few I like...the list goes on ..

 

Your SL-Q300 uses what is called a P-mount or T4P type of cartridge. Unlike the cartridges referred to above, a P-mount cartridge simply plugs in to the front of the arm. If you want to replace the entire cartridge, you will need to buy a P-mount type.

It would be helpful to know what type of cartridge is on there now. Replacing the stylus - not the entire cartridge - may be all that's necessary.

All needles are definitely not the same. All needle sellers aren't either. The more information you supply, the more helpful we can be.

Happy trails,
Larry B.

 

I might be needing a new cart & needle soon for my Audio Technica turntable, should I get a AT 95 or a SHURE M44.