Hi JPulliam, sorry I didn't reply before, I've been ill and could only manage a "like" to your post
Great that you got such a brilliant response to your Sotar head problem, nice one
I hear only good things about Ken from Badger and getting a replacement from Amazon was job sorted. Good to hear you love it after all that
Since you posted the message I opened the packaging of my second Sotar, which I'd never looked at, to check if it was ok. I totally forgot that there is a time limit to send things back to Amazon if there is a problem, so thanks. Fortunately all was good, the head came apart no problem and both needles look nice and straight.
Thanks for the heads up about needle lengths, I believe the Anthem or the Patriot have similar needles to the Sotar, that are shorter, maybe you got sent those.
Nice needle tip hardening technique too. If I have any problems I'll give it a try.
Cheers Mel