Sunday, April 30, 2017

Tips In Taking Care Of Record Player Needles

By Deborah Hill


Record players are apparatuses used in reproducing sounds coming from a phonograph vinyl which is being spun through the turntable within a constant speed. A needle or stylus runs along the vinyl grooves and picks up the vibrations in reproducing sounds. The vibrations are then converted to electric currents and then amplified then the loudspeakers will output the sound reproduced.

These parts of the apparatus need to be changed every time they are worn out due to constant use. This is specially true for record player needles because of friction created when it tracks in the grooves. Here are some basic tips in getting the best out from your phonographs to have a good sound quality.

The set up of the player will require you to have a speaker and an amplifier but there are available speakers where an amplifier is already built inside them so you could just instead use them. Speakers must be positioned according to the indicated sides and enough space between the speakers and wall. When placed on hard surface, have them sit on a foam and let it absorb the vibrations.

Buy also second hand vinyls because they are obviously cheaper than the brand new ones specially those found in garage sales, charity shops and vintage markets. Thoroughly clean your records to have the best sounding music possible when you play them. There are machines that can do this although cheaper alternatives are available.

Dust cover of the player must be down when it is not used to keep its cleanliness. Though when used, the option of having it down or having it taken off is dependent on your preference. Down dust cover may result with the sound resonating with it so there is a difference in the sound quality compared when the cover is taken off.

Platter mats are disc shaped materials sitting between the player and vinyl which is commonly made of felt. The vibrations are absorbed by it and holds the record steadily in improving sound quality. Materials made of felt are the most common because they are the ones included with the player but rubber and cork are better at reducing vibrations and static.

Cartridge houses the stylus and is replaceable due to the dust and debris wearing the needle down. If regularly playing records, changing the cartridge annually is advisable in keeping its excellent condition. You might also consider upgrading to have further improvements instead of just replacing it regularly.

Set the tracking force which is the weight of the cartridge on the vinyl and can be changed by turning the counterweight at the other side of the tonearm. There are guidelines available online or together with the product manual about the suggested tracking force. If the weight is too heavy then the music will be dull to listen to and if it is too light then it will be thin.

Make sure enough space is available in your place for your record player because they are bulky most of the time. Placing them somewhere that does not produce vibrations is important. If not, then the vibration will make the needle to skip and jump when being played.




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