Vinyl records have made a remarkable comeback, captivating music enthusiasts with their warm sound and tangible experience. However, encountering skipping issues on brand new records can be frustrating and puzzling for vinyl lovers. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why brand new records may skip, shedding light on the various factors that contribute to playback issues and exploring potential solutions to enhance your vinyl listening experience.
- Record Pressing Quality: One of the primary reasons for skipping on brand new records is pressing quality. Imperfections in the manufacturing process, such as uneven thickness, off-center holes, or debris embedded in the grooves, can cause the stylus to skip or jump. These issues are more likely to occur in mass-produced records or when quality control measures are inadequate.
- Warped Records: Warped records, where the vinyl has a slight or noticeable bowing or curvature, are another common cause of skipping. Warping can result from improper storage, exposure to temperature fluctuations, or poor pressing techniques. When the turntable’s tonearm encounters an uneven surface, it may struggle to track the grooves effectively, leading to skips.
- Insufficient Tracking Force: The tracking force, or downward pressure exerted by the stylus on the record, is crucial for accurate playback. Insufficient tracking force can cause the stylus to ride too lightly on the grooves, making it more susceptible to skipping. Proper setup and calibration of the turntable’s tonearm, including adjusting the tracking force, can help alleviate this issue.
- Misaligned Tonearm and Cartridge: Misalignment between the tonearm and cartridge can lead to tracking errors and skipping. If the cartridge is not properly aligned with the record’s grooves, the stylus may struggle to follow the intended path, resulting in skips. Ensuring correct alignment and adjusting the cartridge position can help mitigate this problem.
- Anti-Skate Settings: The anti-skate mechanism on a turntable counteracts the inward force exerted by the groove walls on the stylus. If the anti-skate settings are not properly calibrated, the stylus may not maintain proper contact with the grooves, causing skips. Adjusting the anti-skate settings according to the manufacturer’s recommendations can improve tracking performance.
- Stylus Condition: A worn or damaged stylus can contribute to skipping issues. Over time, the stylus may become dull or develop irregularities, compromising its ability to track the grooves accurately. Regular maintenance and replacing the stylus when necessary are essential for optimal playback performance.
- Turntable Setup and Calibration: A poorly set up or misaligned turntable can lead to various playback problems, including skipping. Factors such as leveling the turntable, ensuring a stable platter, and properly grounding the system can affect tracking and playback stability. Taking the time to set up and calibrate the turntable correctly can address skipping issues.
While brand new records are generally expected to offer flawless playback, skipping issues can still occur due to various factors. Pressing quality, warping, insufficient tracking force, misaligned components, and stylus condition are among the key culprits behind skipping on brand new records.
By paying attention to turntable setup, cartridge alignment, tracking force adjustment, and stylus maintenance, many skipping issues can be mitigated or resolved. Additionally, investing in records from reputable pressing plants and ensuring proper storage and handling can reduce the likelihood of encountering skipping problems.
Remember, vinyl records are delicate and require careful handling and maintenance. By troubleshooting and addressing the causes of skipping, you can enhance your vinyl listening experience and fully appreciate the rich sound and nostalgic charm that vinyl records have to offer.
