Clearaudio N1 Replacement Stylus

The Clearaudio N1 Replacement Stylus is the original, plug-in replacement stylus assembly for the Clearaudio N1 and N2 MM moving magnet cartridges.

The stylus is the only part of your system that physically works its way through the groove – and accordingly the only one that wears out on schedule. Eventually the diamond dulls, the highs get a sharp edge, and your records pay the price. On the N1, you simply plug in a fresh stylus assembly instead of replacing the whole cartridge.

Why the original stylus assembly?

Clearaudio gave the N1 a purpose-built plug-in system: old assembly off, new one on – even while the cartridge is still mounted in the tonearm. Overhang, offset angle and azimuth stay untouched, because the body never moves. And only the original part contains exactly the elliptically ground diamond on an aluminum cantilever that you chose when you bought the cartridge.

What you get

A new stylus assembly at factory quality – after that your N1 again delivers its roughly 2.9 mV output voltage, its full 80 µm tracking ability and clean channel separation. Housing, magnet and generator stay exactly where they are. This is a maintenance part, not an upgrade: the N1 sounds like day one again afterward – not better, but certainly not worse either.

Who is the N1 Replacement Stylus for?

For anyone running a Clearaudio N1 or N2 MM who notices sibilant S sounds, a shrinking soundstage, or distortion in loud passages. Plain talk: this assembly doesn't fit the other Clearaudio MM systems – Concept V2 MM, Performer V2, Artist V2, Jubilee MM, Virtuoso V2, Maestro V2, Charisma V2 – there, the stylus change runs as a service on the returned cartridge. And if you've only just bought yours, you don't need a spare stylus on the shelf: the diamond doesn't get any better sitting in a drawer, but your budget does get smaller.

Our verdict

The simplest stylus change in the whole Clearaudio range, and the most sensible way to rescue an entry-level cartridge that's seen its best hours. If you're not sure whether the stylus is really the culprit, get in touch with HD Zürisee in Wädenswil – we'll take a look before you order anything.

Technical data

• Fits: Clearaudio N1 and N2 MM (Moving Magnet)
• Type: plug-in replacement stylus assembly
• Part number: MM016/EN
• Cantilever: aluminum
• Diamond profile: elliptical
• Replacement: by yourself, even while mounted
• Output voltage (N1 system): approx. 2.9 mV (1 kHz, 5 cm/s)
• Recommended tracking force: 2.2 g ± 0.3 g
• Tracking ability: 80 µm
• Stylus compliance: 15 µm/mN
• Channel separation: 20 dB (1 kHz)
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Load resistance: 47 kΩ
• Included: one replacement stylus assembly MM016/EN

Frequently asked questions

Which cartridges does the N1 Replacement Stylus fit?

The Clearaudio N1 and the N2 MM – Clearaudio lists the MM016/EN stylus assembly for both systems. It doesn't fit the other Clearaudio MM models; those handle the stylus change differently. If you're not sure which system is mounted on yours, just ask us.

Can I change the stylus assembly myself?

Yes. The N1 uses a plug-in system: pull off the old assembly, plug in the new one, done – even while it's mounted. There's no need to re-adjust overhang, offset angle or azimuth, because the cartridge body stays in the headshell. If you'd rather not do it yourself, give us the cartridge and get it back done.

How do I know the stylus needs replacing?

Typical signs are sibilant S sounds, a shrinking soundstage, distortion in loud passages, and groove noise that wasn't there before. Only a look under the microscope gives final certainty. Send us a sharp macro photo of the stylus or bring the cartridge by, and we'll take a look.

Why buy the N1 Replacement Stylus from HD Zürisee?

Because we check beforehand whether the stylus really is to blame – and not tracking force, anti-skating, or a tired phono input. As an authorized Clearaudio partner you get the original part, and our technician Mauri handles the change and inspection if you'd rather hand it over. Reach us at +41 44 680 22 00, on WhatsApp at 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls), or at shop@hdzuerisee.ch.

Goes well with

A fresh diamond on dirty vinyl is a waste: find cleaning and care products under Everything Vinyl, brushes, tonearm scales and adjustment aids under turntable accessories. If the change should turn into an upgrade after all, complete cartridges are available under cartridges.