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Stanton 881S

The Stanton 881S crowned the American maker's audiophile line with the house Stereohedron cut. Its 4.9 mV output suits any standard MM phono input. The light 0.75 to 1.25 g tracking force with 1.0 g nominal is gentle on records. The replaceable stylus is the D81, and Phono Culture lists 3 compatible replacement styli.

Stylus: D81
Series: Professional Calibration Standard
Type: ММ
Stylus Shape: Stereohedron[ radii (mil / µm) 0.3 × 2.8 mil (≈8 × 71 µm) ]
Price: 150 USD (1978)
Class: Audiophile

Weight & Dimensions (H×W×D): 5.7 g
Output Voltage: 4.9 mV
Frequency Response: 10–25 000 Hz
Channel Separation: 35 dB
Channel Balance: ≤ 1 dB
Recommended Load: 47 kΩ || 275 pF
Tracking Force: 0.75–1.25 g (nominal 1.0 g)

Additional Info

The Stanton 881S carries balanced, forgiving character with a solid, weighty low end and a naturally open midrange where vocals sit forward without harshness. Tracking stability keeps busy passages composed, and the Stereohedron tip pulls fine detail without turning bright or clinical. Pop, rock and DJ-style use where a stable, easygoing sound matters suit it best. The D81 stylus is replaceable, so wear never sidelines it.

Replacement styluses for Stanton 881S

JICO	D81	Shibata
LP Gear	STNS881S	Line Contact
Tonar	TON-00805DE	Elliptical

Sound × Setup

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Collectors

add 02/03/2026 · upd. 08/02/2026