New guy, first victrola, need some help/parts

[Retrograde]

Thank you.
Feel free to direct me to other threads if some of my questions have already been beaten to death.
I was considering picking up some of those Tungs-tone needles as they don't have to be replaced after every play.
Is this a good idea? Seems a lot less hassle? I understand they no longer make these so I'd have to lurk on eBay?
I guess there's still a lot to learn.... Needle type, needle tone, etc

Use the search function on the forum. Try this LINK to a previous thread. There are numerous record discography sites, just Google it.

BTW, new needles are cheap and plentiful, buy several different types, decide what you like and buy more of them. Tungstone are OK, but not necessary. One time use steel needles are easy enough to use.

[Henry]

How can I tell when a record is "shellac" instead of vinyl?

The shellac mix is very rigid, giving it a distinct sound when tapped lightly with your finger. The record should give a ceramic like sound when tapped, almost like a food plate. A vinyl 78 will give the dull thud of plastic.

Shellac records are also more heavy than vinyl.

You can also try the break test

I'm old enough to remember that when 33 vinyl was first introduced, they were billed as "unbreakable." But I never put them to the test.

[need4art]

PM sent-Contact me I can help and live in the same area.
Abe