There’s nothing quite as frustrating as eagerly unwrapping a brand new vinyl record, only to have it skip during playback. While it may seem perplexing to encounter skipping issues with a new record, several factors can contribute to this problem. This article aims to explore some common reasons why brand new records may skip and provide potential solutions to help you enjoy a seamless listening experience.
- Surface Contaminants: Brand new records are not immune to surface contaminants. During the manufacturing and packaging process, records can accumulate tiny particles of dust, debris, or even static electricity, which can interfere with the stylus tracking the grooves. Before playing a new record, it’s essential to inspect it for any visible debris or smudges. Gently clean the record with a carbon fiber brush or an anti-static record brush to remove any contaminants that might be causing the skipping.
- Record Pressing Quality: The quality of the record pressing can also play a significant role in skipping issues. In some cases, manufacturing defects such as uneven surfaces, off-center spindle holes, or non-fill (where the vinyl does not fully reach the grooves) can cause the stylus to lose contact with the record, resulting in skipping. If you consistently experience skipping with brand new records from a specific pressing, it might be worth contacting the record label or manufacturer to inquire about a replacement.
- Turntable Setup and Calibration: While it’s easy to assume that the issue lies solely with the new record, it’s essential to consider the setup and calibration of your turntable. Ensure that your turntable is properly leveled and isolated from external vibrations. Additionally, check the tracking force and anti-skate settings to ensure they are correctly adjusted for the cartridge being used. Incorrect settings can cause the stylus to either exert too little or too much pressure on the record, resulting in skipping.
- Stylus Condition: Although rare, a brand new record can reveal issues with the stylus itself. A worn or damaged stylus can struggle to track the grooves accurately, leading to skipping. While it’s less likely to encounter this problem with a new stylus, it’s worth inspecting it for any visible damage or irregularities. If in doubt, consult the stylus manufacturer or consider having it professionally checked or replaced.
- Environmental Factors: Environmental conditions can impact the playback of vinyl records, including brand new ones. High humidity levels, extreme temperature fluctuations, or static electricity buildup can affect the performance of the stylus and lead to skipping. Ensure that your turntable is placed in a stable environment with appropriate temperature and humidity levels. Consider using a record cleaning brush or an anti-static record mat to minimize static electricity buildup.
Experiencing skipping issues with a brand new record can be disappointing, but understanding the potential causes can help you address the problem and improve your listening experience. By inspecting the record for surface contaminants, considering the quality of the pressing, ensuring proper turntable setup and calibration, checking the stylus condition, and maintaining suitable environmental conditions, you can mitigate skipping issues and enjoy your brand new records to the fullest. If the problem persists or worsens, it may be beneficial to consult with an audio specialist or contact the manufacturer for further assistance.
