Common questions regarding these services
Q: My cantilever is bent or snapped off – can I still get my cartridge rebuilt?
A: Yes, unless the internal suspension or coils are damaged from the abuse to the cantilever, we can usually rebuild a cartridge that has this kind of damage. We inspect it fully to insure that there has been no internal damage prior to the rebuild
Q: I don’t understand your pricing policy – Do repairs always fall into your shown ranges, and can I just get an evaluation, and can I get it done quickly?
A: Yes, we can evaluate what is needed, and if it cartridge is repairable. The fee is $75, and can be applied towards repair of that cartridge. The time to perform evaluations is often 1-4 weeks work. Certain cartridges require considerable time and far more effort to rebuild properly – high end Clear audio, Keetso, and others. If you select one of the ranges shown for these types or others and it does NOT apply to your make and model, we will contact you before starting the repair.
Q: What is a “cantilever?”
A: A cantilever is the tiny arm that holds the diamond tip or stylus; it’s best properties are achieved when it is lightweight, strong, and extremely resistant to bending. Materials most often used are Aluminum alloy tubing, Ruby, Sapphire, Boron, and others.
Q: What kind of cantilever materials does Songsmith offer?
A: Aluminum, Sapphire, Ruby, and Boron
Q: Can I get just the tip replaced, and not the entire Cantilever?
A: Yes, we can re-tip only, which is by far the preferred method, but it does not cost less. In fact, it is much more difficult and time consuming to perform a “retype only.” The benefits, however, are many – one being extremely low risk of damage to the cartridge, as well as best chance for identical sound to when the cartridge was new. Typical costs for “retyping only” are between $350 and $650 depending on cartridge design. We will “retype” only if specifically requested, if you do request a “retie” only, and we are unable to, for any reason, we will contact you.
