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The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X is one of the most popular first turntables, so "what replacement stylus do I need?" is a very common question. The answer is simpler than the many listings suggest. The AT-LP60X uses Audio-Technica's AT3600L cartridge, and the turntable's tonearm is not adjustable, so the replacement needs to be a stylus designed for that cartridge and its factory tracking force.
What Audio-Technica says
According to Audio-Technica's support pages, the AT-LP60X, the older AT-LP60, and the Sound Burger models ship with the ATN3600L-type stylus and have no tonearm adjustment. They are preset to work with the ATN3600LC or ATN3600LE. The stated vertical tracking force is about 3.5 g. Audio-Technica also notes it has not tested third-party styli and cannot recommend them.
The genuine options
| Stylus | Tip shape | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ATN3600LC | Conical, 0.6 mil bonded | Current update of the ATN3600L; approx. 300–500 h life |
| ATN3600LE | Elliptical | Alternative from Audio-Technica for more detail |
| ATN3600L | Conical | Original model; still sold by some sellers |
Audio-Technica ATN3600LC Conical Replacement Stylus
0.6 mil conical bonded; fits AT3600L cartridge (AT-LP60X, AT-LP60, AT-LP2D, AT-PL300, Sound Burger, AT-LPGO-BT, AT-PL50); approx. 300–500 h life (Audio-Technica)
Pros
- Genuine Audio-Technica part
- Snap-on install, no tools
Cons
- Conical tip only; the ATN3600LE is the elliptical option
Which tip shape?
A conical tip is forgiving of small alignment errors and is the standard choice for fixed-cartridge players. An elliptical tip contacts more of the groove wall and can retrieve more detail, but it is less tolerant of setup errors. On an LP60X both are designed for the preset arm, so the choice is mainly sound preference and price.
How to replace the stylus
- Stop the platter and lift the tonearm onto its rest.
- Keep the stylus guard on if you have it; it gives you something to grip.
- Hold the cartridge body with one hand. With the other, pull the plastic stylus housing forward and down, away from the cartridge, at a slight angle.
- Insert the new stylus at a slight angle so the hook at the back engages the slot, then push until it clicks fully into place.
- Check that there is no gap between the stylus housing and cartridge.
What about cheaper third-party styli?
Many inexpensive "compatible" styli are listed for the AT-LP60X. Some owners report good results; quality varies and Audio-Technica does not test or endorse them. If you try one, buy from a seller with clear return terms and stop using it if it sounds distorted or the fit is loose.
Keeping the new stylus healthy
Clean it every few sides (see how to clean a turntable stylus) and keep records clean. Dirty records shorten stylus life. Track playing hours roughly so you know when the next replacement is due; our stylus replacement guide explains the signs.
FAQ
Is the ATN3600LC the same as the ATN3600L?
Audio-Technica describes the ATN3600LC as an updated version of the ATN3600L with a modern design, keeping the same fit and sound character.
Can I fit a higher-end Audio-Technica stylus to the LP60X?
Audio-Technica advises against it, because the preset tracking force on the fixed arm would be too high for other styli.
Does the ATN3600LC fit the Sound Burger?
Yes. Audio-Technica lists the AT-SB727 and AT-SB2022 Sound Burger models as compatible.