P51-1 cartridge - how do you test this unit ?

I have two of them and cannot get a reading on my ohm setting regardless of how high I go. Do I have two bad ones?

indy-gus wrote:I have two of them and cannot get a reading on my ohm setting regardless of how high I go. Do I have two bad ones?

You won't "get a reading" from a ceramic cartridge. (ohms)
It's a piezo-electric device.
In order to check them (for amateurs) you need to hook it to an amp and run a finger over the stylus.
There are more technical ways of testing - voltage output, etc, but for you that should suffice.

By the way, if you're intending to use the P-51 in the "trashcan" you posted about, the "1" needle is incorrect.
Those 78 machines require a "3" needle.

Matt,
"Needle number" (size) depends on which records are to be played.
"Original 78's" require a # 3. Later 78's, a #2. The latest 78's, and mono 45's, use a #1. If playing "stereo" 45's, a "07" needle is available for the 5- replacement carts. Ron Rich

Ron Rich wrote:Matt,
"Needle number" (size) depends on which records are to be played.
"Original 78's" require a # 3. Later 78's, a #2. The latest 78's, and mono 45's, use a #1. If playing "stereo" 45's, a "07" needle is available for the 5- replacement carts. Ron Rich

Yes Ron, I already know that
But in general, regarding 78's of any era, the 3 mil seems to milk the most from them, because they're worn records now.

Ron Rich wrote:Matt,
"Needle number" (size) depends on which records are to be played.
"Original 78's" require a # 3. Later 78's, a #2. The latest 78's, and mono 45's, use a #1. If playing "stereo" 45's, a "07" needle is available for the 5- replacement carts. Ron Rich

Hi Ron,
Thanks for the info - this is the oldest box I've worked on so far and I believe the first ceramic cart. Have always dealt w/MM & MC carts .
And this box is set up to play 45's so the info on the needle is appreaciated.
Gus