Tonar 534-DS: diamond stylus for your Philips GP-400 MKII

The Tonar 534-DS is a black diamond replacement stylus for the Philips GP-400 MKII cartridge and the related MKII cartridges listed below. It allows you to replace a worn stylus while retaining a compatible cartridge that still works properly. To choose the correct version, check the complete designation on the cartridge actually fitted, including the MKII marking. The specified tracking-force range is 1.5 to 3 grams, with an optimum setting of 2 grams.

Look for the MKII designation when choosing. The 534-DS is intended for the MKII cartridges listed here. A first-series Philips GP400 requires a different version. Read our Philips GP400 stylus guide: Tonar 511-DS or 534-DS to check the differences and identify the correct application.

Explore the Tonar range at Hi-Stands too.

Key features

• Diamond replacement stylus for Philips GP400 MKII and the listed related MKII cartridges.
• Replace a worn stylus while retaining a working, compatible cartridge.
• Black finish to help identify this Tonar version.
• Tracking-force range of 1.5 to 3 grams, with an optimum setting of 2 grams.

Technical specifications Tonar 534-DS

Compatible Philips cartridges: MKII series

The Tonar 534-DS is suitable for the following Philips cartridges in their MKII versions:

• Philips GP400 MKII
• Philips GP500 MKII
• Philips GP401 MKII
• Philips GP501 MKII
• Philips GP406 MKII
• Philips GP412 MKII
• Philips GP421 MKII
• Philips GP422 MKII

Compatible Philips equipment and model numbers

The following equipment appears in the compatibility list. The cartridge actually fitted determines which stylus you need. It may have been replaced over the years. The note some versions only means the 534-DS fits only certain versions of that model.

• Philips: 437, 673, 674, 677, 777, 867, 887, 903, 953, 967, 977, 982, 984.
• Philips AF: AF073, AF085, AF087, AF673, AF674, AF677, AF684, AF685, AF729, AF777, AF825, AF829, AF867, AF877, AF887, AF967, AF977.
• Philips AH: AH876, AH904, AH973, AH974, AH974/MKII, AH984, AH985, AH995 (some versions only).
• Philips AM: AM982.
• Philips GA: GA209 (some versions only), GA222 (some versions only), GA308, GA406, GA407, GA418 (some versions only), GA437.
• Philips GF: GF907.
• Philips F: F1331, F7111, F7112, F7113, F7124, F7212, F7222, F7226.
• Philips RH: RH829, RH832, RH892.

Compatible Aristona, Erres and Sierra models

• Aristona / Erres / Sierra: 577, SG1222 (some versions only), SG1437, ST2751, ST2762, SX5677, SX5685, SX5777, SX5877, SX5887, SX6973, SX6982, 6987TAPC.

Does your equipment also appear in a first-series stylus list, or is the cartridge designation unclear? First check our complete comparison of Philips GP400 styli 511-DS and 534-DS.

Why replace a worn turntable stylus?

A diamond tip can wear with use. A worn or damaged stylus can track less accurately and damage record grooves. Distortion, harsh sibilance or repeated skipping are reasons to have it checked. Dirt or incorrect adjustment can also cause these symptoms, so check cleaning and setup before deciding on the cause. Stop playing if the cantilever is bent or the stylus tip is missing.

Fitting the Tonar 534-DS and setting tracking force

First check that the fitted cartridge matches one of the MKII models listed. Fit the stylus according to the instructions and do not force it into place. Then set the tracking force to 2 grams and preferably check it with a stylus-force gauge. The specified range is 1.5 to 3 grams. Also check antiskating according to your turntable manual. A new stylus cannot repair damage already present in a record groove.

Frequently asked questions about the Tonar 534-DS

Is this an original Philips stylus?

This is a Tonar replacement stylus for the listed Philips cartridges. The stylus brand is Tonar; Philips identifies the compatible cartridges and equipment.

Can I choose using my turntable model alone?

Also check the fitted cartridge and its complete model designation. Some equipment models appear with different cartridge series. The colour of the old stylus is only a supporting clue.