Red Davey (EMG) bamboo fibre needle under the microscope

[poodling around]

I find this thread very interesting indeed.

You see, I have noiticed in the past that (for example) HMV fibre needles have a very similar 'look' to those shown on here. I mean they look 'honey-combed' and some-what 'soft'.

What I don't understand is why my antique bamboo canes (I purchased literally a huge quantity of very wide and very long, untreated canes many years ago) seem to show a very different internal structure.

They have none of this honey combing but are far more dense it seems and very hard indeed.

In fact, I broke an HMV bamboo cutter in the past because they are so tough.

They generally have no problem playing records entirely and clearly and can be cut very thinly.

If this makes sense to anyone I would really appreciate any opinions about this.

Sorry the photograph below is so poor.

[Inigo]

I also use bamboo needles, and usually have no problems with them, except when playing overmodulated records or worn ones. In the opposite side, when playing soft classical music, chamber music, etc on good shape records, usually I can play several sides with the bamboo needle without repointing

[IainP1]

I find this thread very interesting indeed.

You see, I have noiticed in the past that (for example) HMV fibre needles have a very similar 'look' to those shown on here. I mean they look 'honey-combed' and some-what 'soft'.

What I don't understand is why my antique bamboo canes (I purchased literally a huge quantity of very wide and very long, untreated canes many years ago) seem to show a very different internal structure.

They have none of this honey combing but are far more dense it seems and very hard indeed.

In fact, I broke an HMV bamboo cutter in the past because they are so tough.

They generally have no problem playing records entirely and clearly and can be cut very thinly.

If this makes sense to anyone I would really appreciate any opinions about this.

Sorry the photograph below is so poor.

Interesting indeed! I'll get my other bamboo one under the scope soon, though it clearly does have the honeycomb structure too.
Iain