The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hello all,

Does anybody have a good source for tungsten phonograph needles, like the old Victor Tung-Tones?

Clay

There is no modern source of newly mass-produced tungsten needles, but if you do a search of this site under 'tungsten needles', you'll find a number of discussions about them, including some input from a few folks who make them at home.

If you have access to a machine shop that does small jobs, they may be willing to turn down your used needles and expose the tungsten wire that is still embedded there and give you more plays. Being a machinist my self, I have done this quite frequently on my used styli.

Bill

The other option would be to get yourself an "Everplay" tungstone needle. Its basically a tungstone needle but which has a supply of wire that you feed out as the point wears away. Should be good for many 1,000's of playings. I have one (as do others here) and they sound good. A bit like a medium tone steel needle in loudness. They do occasionally turn up on ebay so might be worth looking out for.

S-B-H