Vinyl records have made a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with many music lovers enjoying the warm sound and tactile experience of listening to records. However, one of the most common problems that vinyl fans encounter is record skipping. While skipping can happen to any record, it is more common on older records that have been damaged or played frequently. However, even new records can skip, and there are a number of reasons why this might happen.
Here are some of the most common causes of record skipping:
- Warped records. Warping is a common problem with vinyl records, and it can cause the record to wobble as it plays. This can cause the stylus to jump out of the groove, resulting in skipping. Warping can be caused by a number of factors, including heat, humidity, and pressure.
- Dirt and debris. Dust and dirt can build up in the grooves of a record, and this can also cause skipping. The stylus can get caught on dirt or debris, causing it to jump out of the groove. To prevent this, it is important to clean your records regularly.
- Worn or damaged stylus. The stylus is the needle that reads the grooves of a record. If the stylus is worn or damaged, it may not be able to track the grooves properly, which can cause skipping. To prevent this, it is important to replace your stylus regularly.
- Improper tracking force. Tracking force is the amount of pressure that the stylus exerts on the record. If the tracking force is too low, the stylus may not be able to track the grooves properly, resulting in skipping. If the tracking force is too high, it can damage the record. To prevent this, it is important to adjust the tracking force to the recommended setting for your turntable.
- Unstable surface. If your turntable is not sitting on a stable surface, it can cause the record to wobble as it plays. This can cause the stylus to jump out of the groove, resulting in skipping. To prevent this, make sure that your turntable is sitting on a level surface.
- Manufacturing defects. In rare cases, a new record may skip due to a manufacturing defect. If you have a new record that skips, you should contact the manufacturer for a replacement.
Can new vinyl records skip?
Yes, new vinyl records can skip. In fact, new records are more likely to skip than older records, because they are often pressed with thicker vinyl, which can make them more susceptible to warping. Additionally, new records may not have been properly cleaned or packaged, which can also lead to skipping.
How to prevent record skipping
If you are experiencing record skipping, there are a number of things you can do to prevent it:
- Clean your records regularly. Use a soft brush or a record cleaning solution to remove dust and dirt from the grooves of your records.
- Replace your stylus regularly. A worn or damaged stylus can cause skipping.
- Adjust the tracking force to the recommended setting for your turntable. This will help to ensure that the stylus is applying the correct amount of pressure to the record.
- Make sure that your turntable is sitting on a stable surface. This will help to prevent the record from wobbling as it plays.
- Store your records in a clean, dry place. This will help to prevent warping and other damage.
If you have tried all of these things and your records are still skipping, you may need to contact the manufacturer for a replacement.
Conclusion
While record skipping can happen to any record, there are a number of things you can do to prevent it. By following the tips above, you can help to keep your vinyl records in good condition and enjoy them for years to come.
