ADC RSQ33 MKII ()
A replacement stylus is a small part, but a worn one damages records.
Overview
The ADC RSQ33 MKII is not a whole cartridge. It is a replacement stylus for a range of ADC phono cartridges, including the RSQ33 MKII, RSQ33 MKIII, QLM33 MKII, QLM33 MKIII, and ADC-1700. The fact sheet doesn't confirm the RSQ33 MKII as a full cartridge outright, but the context points that way. The stylus keeps older ADC cartridges tracking vinyl grooves properly.
A worn stylus is more than a drop in sound quality. It can cause irreversible damage to records. Once the tip wears flat or develops a burr, it stops riding the groove smoothly and grinds away at the modulations that hold the music. That crackle might not be surface noise. It could be the stylus.
ADC no longer produces these styli in volume, so the recommendation is practical: if you rely on one of these cartridges, buy at least two replacement styli while you still can.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | ADC |
| Stylus type | Elliptical Diamond Stylus |
| Stylus construction | Bonded Diamond |
| Compatibility | Fits ADC RSQ33 MKII, ADC RSQ33 MKIII, ADC QLM33 MKII, ADC QLM33 MKIII, and ADC-1700 cartridges |
Collectibility & Value
The current market price for the replacement stylus (listed as ADCRSQ33-EN) is £49.99, including VAT, according to snvinyl.co.uk. That is the cost of a single replacement tip, not the full cartridge. No data exists on the value of the complete ADC RSQ33 MKII cartridge, or on original pricing or production years. Replacements are still available but likely dwindling. There is no indication of common failure modes for the cartridge as a whole, but the emphasis on stylus wear suggests maintenance is the primary concern. Without manufacturer support or widespread production, longevity depends on spare parts availability.
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