There are a few reasons why cheap turntables can damage records. First, they often have ceramic cartridges. Ceramic cartridges have a spherical stylus, which is a rounded tip. This type of stylus can dig into the grooves of the record, causing scratches and wear. Second, cheap turntables often have a low tracking force. Tracking force is the amount of pressure that the stylus applies to the record. A low tracking force can cause the stylus to skip, which can also damage the record. Third, cheap turntables often have a poor-quality platter. The platter is the flat surface that the record spins on. A poor-quality platter can wobble, which can also damage the record.
How to prevent your records from being damaged by a cheap turntable
If you’re using a cheap turntable, there are a few things you can do to prevent your records from being damaged. First, make sure that the tracking force is set correctly. The tracking force should be between 1 and 3 grams. Second, use a diamond stylus. Diamond styli are more durable than ceramic styli and are less likely to damage records. Third, clean your records regularly. Cleaning your records will help to remove dirt and dust, which can also damage the record.
What are some good budget turntables that won’t damage records?
There are a few good budget turntables that won’t damage records. These include:
- Audio-Technica AT-LP60X
- Crosley C6
- Fluance RT82
- Rega Planar 1
These turntables all have features that will help to protect your records, such as adjustable tracking force, diamond styli, and high-quality platters.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a turntable that won’t damage your records, you’ll need to avoid cheap turntables. Instead, look for a turntable that has features such as adjustable tracking force, diamond styli, and a high-quality platter. With a little care, you can enjoy your vinyl records for years to come.
Additional tips for protecting your vinyl records
- Store your records in a cool, dry place.
- Avoid stacking your records on top of each other.
- Clean your records regularly with a soft cloth.
- Use a dust cover when you’re not playing your records.
- Replace the stylus on your turntable every 500-1000 hours of use.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your vinyl records in good condition and prevent them from being damaged.