Styli for DJ cartridges can be categorized into two major types: elliptical and spherical. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, depending on the intended application as mentioned previously. Due to a higher contact with the record groove, the use of an elliptical stylus results in rich and detailed sound reproduction. This is why elliptical styli are particularly recommended for studio and club environments.

Spherical styli on the other hand, have a higher tracking ability to reduce needle skipping and assist the cartridge to stay in the groove, even during fast record movements. The shape of a spherical stylus also contributes to a lower vinyl wear and for this reason, they are particularly ideal for scratching. In addition, if they also have a high output voltage, spherical styli are also suitable for use with timecode records (DVS).

FURTHER ASPECTS

While sound quality and tracking ability is mainly dependant on the stylus type, there are some technical aspects such as the output voltage, that should also be considered when purchasing a DJ cartridge. In general, it can be said that the higher the output voltage, the louder the audio signal produced by the cartridge. A high output voltage is especially important for playing back analog vinyl in clubs or for the use of the cartridge in a digital vinyl system.

Not every cartridge has a flat frequency response, often associated as a balanced sound. Some have a slight accentuation on the bass range, which can have a positive effect in a club situation..

■ The higher the output voltage, the louder the audio signal produced

■ Loudness is especially important for analog vinyl playback and DVS

■ Frequency response differs from cartridge to cartridge

■ Flat frequency responses are associated as a balanced sound while a slight accentuation on the bass range can have a positive effect in a club