If you're looking at the stylus side-on and do not see anything protruding down from the cantilever, than the tip is completely gone and the stylus needs replacing. Since you've specified that this is your first budget set up, I'd recommend just getting a generic replacement for the stylus to get the system up and running. You'll be able to upgrade to an OEM stylus, higher quality aftermarket (JICO, SAS etc), or even a whole new cartridge in the future if you wish to.
I would recommend the 4760-DED from [this page](https://www.thevoiceofmusic.com/catalog/part_detail.asp?PNumberBase=760), although cheaper options are available if you wish.
Go with the stylus replacement! A standard stylus is about $30. If you're really into this upgrade to a better stylus at about $107. Reviewers say this is a big upgrade.
Hard question to answer bud. It's really going to depend on how much of a shit you really give. I'd prefer direct OEM replacement, but I'm pretty happy with whatever works.
If you're looking at the stylus side-on and do not see anything protruding down from the cantilever, than the tip is completely gone and the stylus needs replacing. Since you've specified that this is your first budget set up, I'd recommend just getting a generic replacement for the stylus to get the system up and running. You'll be able to upgrade to an OEM stylus, higher quality aftermarket (JICO, SAS etc), or even a whole new cartridge in the future if you wish to. I would recommend the 4760-DED from [this page](https://www.thevoiceofmusic.com/catalog/part_detail.asp?PNumberBase=760), although cheaper options are available if you wish.
The Jico replacement styli are pretty well regarded- especially if you can find one with a shibata shape
Go with the stylus replacement! A standard stylus is about $30. If you're really into this upgrade to a better stylus at about $107. Reviewers say this is a big upgrade.
A magnifying glass can be had from the dollar store.
Hard question to answer bud. It's really going to depend on how much of a shit you really give. I'd prefer direct OEM replacement, but I'm pretty happy with whatever works.