i bought a turntable, and i think i'm to the point where i've listened to enough stuff that i need a new needle. and i might need a new cartridge as well because i'm always having to lick the connection to get both speakers to spit out sound.

any ideas?

How much do you want to spend?

And, '...lick...'?

I don't know what connection yr having to lick, but if it gets to the point where licking ain't enough, I'd be looking for a new pastime.............

You can grab a Shure M97 for around 60 bucks. It's a really good all purpose cartridge, tracks well, good bass, pretty high output.

Can't scratch with it or anything if that's what you've got in mind.

I also like the Ortofon OM series. You can grab the OM-10 cheap and can upgrade the stylus while keeping the same cartridge as you go along. It's a bit brighter with a bit less bass than the Shure.

At first glance, I thought this was a heroin thread.

who says it isn't a heroin thread?

oh, and to defend my licking...
i have to unscrew the cartridge, lick the end that goes in so that there is good connection, and then screw it back in. i know it sounds weird, but it does the trick.

Wow. DON'T google image search for "needle."

Both good suggestions. I'd also suggest one of the cheaper Grados or Rega...but if your TT is a Rega, the Grado WILL hum. Actually, if its a Rega table, get a Rega arm.