Does a cartridge ever wear out or go bad? If so, what wears out? I understand a stylus wearing out. And I understand the desire to upgrade to a better quality cartridge.

Reason I'm asking, it is time to replace my stylus. I have a vintage Elac Miracord 46 TT that I really enjoy. It has a Shure cartridge. The cartridge is several years old, but still performs well. I'm trying to decide whether to just replace my stylus, or buy a new cartridge/stylus.

And I'm trying hard not to get a serious case of the upgrade bug.

And while I'm asking, why should one ever replace a headshell?

Elementary questions, I know, but I appreciate any input.

JD