Retipping Services
Soundsmith offers full replacement of the complete cantilever/stylus assembly, as well as retipping services only. Although more costly, retipping only is by far the preferred method of restoration for certain high end cartridges where the cantilever is intact and just the diamond has been lost or warn.
The following are some frequently asked questions about retipping.
My cantilever is bent or snapped off - can I still get my cartridge rebuilt??
>> 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.
I don’t understand your pricing policy – can I just get an evaluation, and can I get it done quickly??
>> 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 1-4 weeks.
What is a "cantilever??
> 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...
What kind of cantilever materials does Soundsmith offer??
>Aluminum, Ruby, Boron Sapphire and more.
Can I get just the tip replaced, and not the entire Cantilever ??
> 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 "retip 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 “retipping only” are between $350 and $650 depending on cartridge design. If possible, we will "retip" only if specifically requested. If you request a "retip" only, and we find we cannot for any reason, we will contact you.
Do you work on cartridge types and models not listed here???
Ø Absolutely yes - we have rebuilt many cartridges that are not listed, including some antique and unusual types. We have rebuilt classic cartridges from the 40’s and 50s; as well. We do charge for an evaluation, but do NOT charge for any amount of time and materials on a "preauthorized for rebuild" cartridge that we find, after inspection and work, cannot be rebuilt. We take that loss for time and materials.
What happens if the cartridge is damaged during the rebuilding process??
> It must be understood that there is always some risk when performing any type of microscopic repair. Although we have an extremely high success rate, some low level of risk is unavoidable. Unlike doctors and most other cartridge rebuilders, we do NOT charge for our time and materials when we are unsuccessful at rebuilding, or if the cartridge becomes unrepairable.
How long does it take to get the work done?
> That depends on the number of customers who sent in work ahead of yours. Our services are in high demand world-wide. Repair queue is typically in the 6-12 week range. Each and every customer gets the full measure of my 40 plus years of experience and skills.
Do you have a warranty for your workmanship and materials??
> Yes, ONE FULL YEAR to the original owner.
Can I pay with Paypal??
> Yes we accept PAYPAL, Visa, Master Card and Discover. You do NOT need to be a PAYPAL member to use your credit card with PAYPAL. Our PAYPAL account is ebay@sound-smith.com
