Goldring D42 Replacement Stylus for 1042

The Goldring D42 is the replacement stylus assembly for the Goldring 1042, the flagship moving magnet cartridge in Goldring's acclaimed 1000 series. Designed and manufactured in the UK, the D42 is a slip-on unit that allows owners to restore their 1042 to full performance without the cost or complexity of a complete cartridge replacement. It is also compatible as an upgrade stylus for the entire 1000 series range, including the 1006, 1012GX, 1022GX, and 1040.

Gyger S Stylus Profile

At the heart of the D42 is a nude natural diamond ground to the Gyger S profile — a line-contact geometry shaped to more closely resemble the record cutting head than conventional elliptical or conical profiles. The 6 µm radius allows it to trace the smallest groove detail with complete fidelity, extracting information that simpler stylus shapes cannot reach. The result is a wider frequency response, lower distortion, and more even record wear compared to standard profiles.

Ultra-Low-Mass Construction

The D42 stylus assembly features an ultra-low-mass, micro-miniature Alnico V magnet paired with a gold-plated nickel tie-bar that serves a dual purpose: providing a path for static charge dissipation and stabilising the cantilever during tracking. The equivalent tip mass is just 0.45 mg, contributing to the assembly's ability to track at a recommended playing weight of 1.5–2.0 g (1.7 g nominal).

Broad Compatibility

While designed as the standard replacement for the 1042, the D42 functions as a performance upgrade for any cartridge in the Goldring 1000 series. Fitting is straightforward — the stylus assembly slides onto the cartridge body without tools, making it a practical option for users who want to step up from the styli supplied with the 1006, 1012GX, 1022GX, or 1040 without changing their cartridge.

What the Press Says

• "Easily good enough to give quality digital kit something to think about" — What Hi-Fi? ★★★★★ (April 2017)